glc a bit nicer for sure, but the glb isn't terrible imo. we had one for a couple of years (other half drove it) but eventually she wanted something smaller and an ev so got the gv60 which is awesome.

but rather than opinions here, this is a solid comparison video of glb vs glc.


tl;dr glc interior a bit bigger outside and nicer iside, but i hate the glc ski slope screen (glb has the dual side by side screens). and the glb being boxier has more headroom and more useful space.

 

I don't really care about the 2WD/4WD/AWD issue. My Tundra is 2WD or 4WD. I use 2WD about 360 days of the year. When it snows, I switch it into 4WD (actually I drive a lot in the snow in 2WD because with good tires and it does great). A total non-issue in my opinion.

As for the Highlander, we have a V6 Hybrid one. Drives well and the engine/driveline is super smooth and efficient (28 mpg), but it's pretty boring and has squeaks/rattles. Works as a daily driver, though. My in-laws have a V6 Durango, also nice with a decent third row and nice to drive. No issues in 7 years.

 

Highly recommend the Mercedes GL / GLS or GLE if they can be optioned with 3rd row.

Mazda CX90 is great as well although the long term reliability of the new inline 6 is uncertain.

 

not likely for 30k unless a salvage title.

 

I cannot overstate how much nicer a vehicle the GLC is than the GLB...

 

The First-generation 3.6Ls did have problems with the timing chains. The Second-generation 3.6Ls in the vehicles I mentioned have been much more reliable....although the transmissions have had some issues.

 

Plenty of nice ones under $30k from 2018/2019.

GLE with 3.5 V6 NA motor is solid
GLS 450 has the 3.0 V6 Turbo

https://www.cdjrofprinceton.com/inve...f6ee4kb216606/

 

I would cross Dodge off the list, but I have no experience with that model. The only possible positive I see with that route, is maybe parts are cheaper and or easier to come across. I owned a challenger sxt rallye redline for maybe 6 years. Was only a v6. The only thing I semi miss is the appearance only. And I say semi because as I have aged, I am okay with less flashy.

 

Durangos are very good, if you get a 6.4 you avoid cam issues and the only other major thing is rust. Very easy and cheap to own overall if you are okay with a basic interior etc

 

Good point on the rust. I was surprised by accumulation mine acquired during my ownership, but I was not the first owner. I feel like I may have not been the second owner as well.

 

Specifically, what type of hassles is your LS460 giving you may I ask?

Air suspension?
Suspension bushings/arms?
Engine?
Radiator?
Brake master cylinder?

 

4th gen HiHybrid
3rd gen HiHybrd, or Hi with a 6 speed or prerefresh. Avoid the 8 speed at all costs for some reason if buying Toyota.
4th gen RX/L hybrid is solid, but dont know if pricing will be where you want it.
No glass roof at all is best, but sunroof is fine avoid pano at all costs.
Get a ppi, watch some TCCN videos, warning he goes into overdrive about seepages and leaks but does point out common weak points.

I like used cars with undercoating removed, as lately some sellers use that to mask the rust underneath.

 

Maybe a Volvo?

 

I've owned lots of cars with panoramic roofs, have never had any leaks ever.

 

You buy new plus your cars live inside and are cared for, it's VERY different used and a constant source of paranoia used. The manuals for many cars say to inspect/clean cowl and pano roof drains/seals every 20k miles and no one ever does.

I have a Q5 here right now with a leak from plugged drains that flooded the rear trunk floor