There is a lot of complaining about how high the cost of today’s vehicles are, and every year prices keep rising. It’s one of the reasons why vehicles such as the Dodge Grand Caravan and Dodge Journey continue to sell well, even though they haven’t received significant updates since 2011. We decided to give our team a challenge. With a budget of $45,000 US (and we couldn’t use incentives), pick an FCA vehicle that is sold in the United States that can seat five and customize it the way you would feel comfortable. Here is what the team came up with:
Contributor Ivan Barišić chose the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Overland 4×4:
With the Cherokee’s premium Overland trim, you get luxury with Jeep capability. Ivan picked the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower for $500, the 9-speed automatic for $1,205, Trailer-Tow Group for $795, Technology Group for $1,095, Heavy Duty Protection Group for $295 and with most of the Cherokee’s equipment like Uconnect 8.4-inch NAV Touchscreen and black and tan premium leather heated and ventilated seats, the Overland offers amazing luxury for reasonable price. With a base price of $37,995 for the Overland 4×4, and a total of $3,890 in options the Cherokee Overland 4×4 with destination charges is $43,390.
Contributor Jonathan B. chose the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk Elite…
With a base price of $36,890, the Cherokee Trailhawk Elite adds more of a luxury package to the popular off-road trim. Add options like the Trailer-Tow Group for $795, Engine Block Heater for $115, Uconnect 8.4-inch NAV Touchscreen for $895, Full Sunroof with Power Front and Fixed Rear for $1,595, Technology Group for $1,095 and Rock Rails for $1,095 for added protection off-road. The total package came out to $43,975 including destination and excluding incentives.
Contributor Mike Volkmann chose the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring Plus:
With seating for seven, hybrid technology and unbeatable functionality the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring Plus comes with a base price of $39,995. Add the sporty S Appearance Package for $795, Cold Weather Group for $495, Interior Protection Package for $620, Power Liftgate for $285, Uconnect 8.4-inch NAV Touchscreen for $695 and KeySense keyless entry for $195. That is a total of $3,580 in options for a total of $44,980 (before incentives) and includes the $1,395 for destination.
Contributor Cody Wagner chose the 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack…
“I chose an IndiGo Blue 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack. The base price is $39,995 with a 6-speed manual. After I was finished adding options like the Dynamics Package for $2,200, Driver Convenience Package for $1,095, and Uconnect 8.4-inch NAV Touchscreen for $795. I ended up with a total of $44,480 before incentives. Certainly cutting close but I managed not to break the bank.”
Contributor and In-House Graphic Artist Ryan Dodd chose the 2019 Chrysler 300S:
“My choice is a 2019 Chrysler 300S with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. I equipped mine with the 300S Premium Group 2 and the dual-pane panoramic sunroof with an Ocean Blue exterior and the Black/Smoke interior. The 300 has a more upscale design than the Charger, and with the 20-inch black wheels and Ocean Blue exterior, it’s really a striking car. The HEMI power backs up the in-your-face design, and the white interior and panoramic sunroof make the interior feel open and airy. The final price came just under the $45,000 limit at $44,780 excluding incentives.”
Co-Editor Jared Balfour chose the 2019 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack…
“My choice was the 2019 Dodge Charger Scat Pack. Base MSRP is $39,995, I added in the Adaptive Damping Suspension for $995, Dynamics Package for $2,200 and B5 Blue paint for $69. Including options and destination, the total price comes to $44,654 before rebates. 485 horsepower, room, and comfort for 5, stunning good looks and 25MPG? Yes, please!”
Co-Editor Robert S. Miller chose the 2019 Dodge Durango GT AWD…
“My choice is the 2019 Dodge Durango GT AWD which comes in at a base price of USD $37,045. The vehicle I picked would be equipped with the Blacktop Package, Trailer Tow IV Group, Black Leather-trimmed bucket seats, 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen with Navigation, Blind Spot Monitoring and sunroof. With these options, the total price of the Durango comes to USD $43,810 before incentives.
The Durango GT AWD is equipped with the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 292 horsepower and has plenty of power to tow your weekend toys. The Blacktop Package adds even more sporty flavor to the Durango’s performance look. While the Durango is equipped with three rows of seats, there is plenty of room for most families.”
What do you think of our choices? What is the vehicle you would pick for under $45,000? Tell us in the comments below.
