4runner for the win!

 

Well no one said Volvo and we drove one and I loved it. Very luxurious. She decided she didn't like the interior if the RX and the Volvo was about $60,000 + here which is all we want to spend. We are going to go to try a Honda Pilot, drive the Subaru and maybe a Lincoln.

Lots of quality SUVs out there. In Canada the range for a quality new SUV on the road with tax ranges from $40,000 - $50,000 and luxury SUVs range from $65,000 - $100,000 + It was an interesting experience shopping for a new vehicle .... makes me appreciate my car even more, but I do wish my car wasnt 18 years old.

 

Toyota 4runner or MDX. I like the Volvo SUVs just concerned about maintenance cost after warranty is over. Or if you can wait 9 months or so Highlander and RX will almost certain get a redesign in 2020. Mercedes makes a couple of nice SUVs but likley not the best long term keeper for maintenance and repair costs. I would not touch long term ownership of BMW, Audi, Porsche, or even a VW with a 10 ft pole because of insane parts and repair costs.

 

While the 4runner and by extension the GX are excellent SUV's, they are at their core hard core 4WD vehicles. What does that mean?

It means you give up a lot of comfort for off road ability. It's the basic design of the vehicle that creates the issues. The floors are high to allow maximum ground clearance.

The suspension is set up for long travel also, both the 4runner and the GX are trucks with a full frame. With regard to the GX only so much can be done to make a hard core 4WD truck comfortable.

I would recommend a crossover for your wife. All wheel drive can be had if your local weather makes it beneficial. Far more comfortable and safe. Despite all the electronics, again it's the basic design of the vehicle. 4WD trucks have a much higher center of gravity.

I love love love my 4runner, superb vehicle. That said it is superb in it's element, off road and towing. If I have a 1000 mile trip, I am taking the LS. Even if it is snowy and icy, I'm taking the LS with snow tires, and a good set of cable chains in the back.
It is very very rare that the snow would be deep enough that the clearance and 4WD would be a real benefit.

 

The Jeep with a 10% discount is just more than a Honda Pilot. The Pilot is larger, more refined and cheaper than the Jeep. Looks like it's an easy decision.