jacksonian

We've had an '04 GX now for about 11 months and really like it a lot. My only wishes would be for better gas mileage and satellite radio built in. It's almost time to turn in our BMW X5 on lease. There just aren't many mid-size SUVs that we like with enough room in the back for our 2 very large dogs. We thought about the new LR3 from Land Rover, and I'll go look at one this week when they come in, but I don't trust their safety or reliability records. That doesn't leave many choices. We've always liked the Toyota Land Cruiser and it's not too much bigger. The TLC would be a few thousand more than a new GX. But then we wouldn't have 2 of the same vehicles. Any thoughts?

Rx900

for ur needs, get an EXCURSION! lol jk* well, it would be nice to try the LC, to have a variety. or have a collection of GX470s! lol . it's ur protocol!

jacksonian

I'd never drive such a huge beast as an Excursion The dogs have tons of room in the GX, and that barn door actually allows my German Shepherd to just step right in instead of having to run and jump. The clamshell tailgate on the TLC sits up just a little higher. I'm not opposed to having a collection of the finest SUVs (GXs) on the road, but I think my wife wants some variety. Sure wish I could talk her into an LX

PitBull

I would get the Landcruiser, they are quality/quality/quality. I know you know they are the same vehicle as the LX470. Only difference is the adjustable suspension. If you get the LC you will be giving the GX to your wife.

Rx900

how about a navi or escalade? or american is out of the question?!?

tigmd99

TLC...TLC...TLC...TLC.

brent0226

I would say go for the GX, for the simple reason that the LC is nearing the end of its model cycle.

It may seem really enticing right now, but I'm telling you, when you see the new LCs rolling around in a little while, you'll be really upset that you didn't wait or didn't get the GX.

Rx900

well in that case, wait for the new redesigned LC! (if u can wait)

Rx900

there's an idea!

jacksonian

Navi or Escalade--ooh, cheap American trucks. I have a friend who bought a new Escalade last year. very cheap interior and truck like ride.

Can't wait, must buy in the next month or two.

Hmm, used LX is a thought.

It's tough though, I could get a new '04 GX for a really good price right now. It would be hard to pay $7K more or so for a TLC. But they are COOL!

Thanks for all the suggestions.

brent0226

Actually, have you looked at the new Navigator? It isn't nearly as cheapy as the Escalade (which is just plain sad). I wouldn't say its quality is as high as Lexus', but it's up there. The interior is very nice. It's got independent rear suspension, so it shouldn't ride like a truck (and it may be a little more composed over bumps than the GX, but at the expense of offroading capability). Plus it's got some things the GX doesn't have (power fold 3rd row seat, power liftgate, power running boards, air conditioned seats, and like the GX a touch screen navigation system). On top of that, you could even get a big discount, not unlike many American cars.

It may be worth a look.

jacksonian

Navigator's a little large for my taste. That's what's so perfect about the GX. Even the TLC/LX feel smaller than the big Escalade/Navigator beasts. Plus, I don't think they're making a P. Diddy version this year

LexusChris

iTrader: (1)

Toyota Land Cruiser or late model LX 470 will serve you well...the Escalade looks much bigger than the LX 470 but in reality it really isn't so much.

tigmd99

TLC: proven mechanicals (no clunk, steering wheel vibration, etc.), excellent off-road ability (known thru-out the world), proven reliability & durability, proven quality construction (built like a tank & with care), and no bugs that needs to be fix because it's been perfected since 1998. It's just a quality piece of machinery that is second to none in terms of reliability and durability.