the rogue comes with a cvt... might as well give up on life.

Try looking at 05-09 legacy gt wagon or outback xt wagon in 5mt. Still a very basic, analog car, especially in the lower trims. They are basically a larger wrx with sti 2.5 instead of the wrx 2.0. Lots of things from the gd and gr/gv bolt up to it. They drive ok stock. Won't be as engaging as a BMW for sure but there is enough aftermarket support to fix that if one so chooses. People on forums make a big fuss about how these things blow turbos and eat itself. Mine is coming up on 270k on the original turbos with zero shaft play and the chassis feels a lot more solid than my e46 m3 with 160k and my e39 m5 with 250k.

Have you ever considered this unicorn ... unfortunately, you'd have to import it from US, a bit of work but can still be done personally (don't need importer). If only they had this in Canada it might just have everything you're looking for.

*** 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon w/Tech 4dr Sport Wagon w/Technology Package ***

https://images.craigslist.org/00g0g_...iC_600x450.jpg

Thread bump.

Well, it looks like another one is on the way, so this put my search for a newer car into high gear. After going over our budget and our needs, we ended up with a stripper model Mark VI Golf Wagon with the 2.5 engine. After test driving another example, I was pleased with the quiet cabin and the solidity of the chassis. My wife took it for a spin around the block and she finally understood what all the fuss of German-engineered cars is about. The backseat fit a rear-facing convertible car seat with enough room for my legs in the driver's seat. We were sold.

We take it home next week. It'll be the first VW for me, so hopefully, no exploding coil packs or broken window regulators. :lol