Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

[gtochris]

First off- I know know cars so unfortunately I know too much I've shopped this thing to death and my partner is going to kill me if I don't buy something soon:tranquillity:

2002 Tahoe is SOLD to my sister, DO NOT want something like that again- too clunky/ heavy, seeking a size smaller with a V6 with a little more responsiveness and fun to drive as it is primarily my Daily Driver and I might only tow 100 miles a year... Nothing else catches my attention OR is in my budget and dont want to go any older then '06 or larger. Not a fan of any of the Jeeps,(besides '11+ Grand cherokee which is out of my range) Trail-blazer duo dont care for and the current 1/2 ton trucks I feel are too big for my needs or parking situation.

My current boat is light and if we upgrade it will not be over a 21ft bowrider.

Budget around $20,000 or less and want to keep the mileage at or below 50K:

Shopping for:
06-09 Toyota 4Runner V6/ 4x4
06-Newer Tacoma V6/4x4 Crew or Extended cab
08-newer Nissan Frontier V6/4x4 Crew or Extended Cab
09+ Honda Ridgeline

The Toyota duo seem to have the best reviews and customer satisfaction, but hold their value and will likely have around 50,000 miles for my budget. I've driven both and enjoyed.

Nissan Frontier, best power, newest for the price and lowest miles, but relatively low reviews, lots of chichi quality issues.

Ridgeline (I know, it's a Pilot/ not a real "truck")... Good quality, best ride, Big cab, probably the best for the highway but downers to me are Timing belt, higher maintenance costs and I am on the fence about the expensive replacement on a FWD based transmission. (should I be given my lighter boat/ I'm a maintenance nut?)

Is my commonlaw marrage doomed?:facepalm:

 

[bigdee]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Shopping for:
06-09 Toyota 4Runner V6/ 4x4
06-Newer Tacoma V6/4x4 Crew or Extended cab
08-newer Nissan Frontier V6/4x4 Crew or Extended Cab
09+ Honda Ridgeline

)

IMO all good choices as long as they meet your towing capacity. Not so sure about the Ridgeline but people say Pilot is a good tow vehicle. The vehicles you listed are just part of the equation....the driver is the other!

 

[gtochris]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

IMO all good choices as long as they meet your towing capacity. Not so sure about the Ridgeline but people say Pilot is a good tow vehicle. The vehicles you listed are just part of the equation....the driver is the other!

As stated before- I wouldnt push the limits of any of the above with towing (5,000 capacity or more) and I'm well below that even with an upgrade. When towing on the highway I'm pretty steady and cautious in the right lane.
The ridgeline forum is full of crazy people pulling 25ft travel trailers... I respect the capability of each vehicle and dont plan to find it's limits.

 

[JB]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Take a drive in a Toyota Highlander, particularly the Hybrid with 4WD. It is the highest rated (Consumer Reports) mid size ute out there, rated for 3500# tow. Much more pleasant to drive than the 4Runner.

I really love my '06.

 

[Triangleboater]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

I had the '06 hybrid highland and it towed my 15 foot skiff with ease, really nice car! and it averaged 26 miles per gallon. Good deal for a fairly powerful v6. But, now I have a 4runner and love it too. I would stick with the toyota. Just make bullet proof engines. Ever seen the Top Gear where they take the toyota truck and drop it off a building and drive it away? pretty amazing.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

If you are going to get a highlander, the V6 non-hybrid is rated at 5000lbs. Personally, I wouldn't tow a 21' bowrider with it though.

I know you don't want to hear this but I wouldn't use a midsize SUV to tow a 21' boat. Tahoe is what I would get but since you tow less than 100 miles maybe you can be near the towing limit without as much issue.

 

[saumon]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

If you are going to get a highlander, the V6 non-hybrid is rated at 5000lbs. Personally, I wouldn't tow a 21' bowrider with it though.

I know you don't want to hear this but I wouldn't use a midsize SUV to tow a 21' boat. Tahoe is what I would get.

The Tacoma (V6, 4x4, auto, double cab, longbed), that is rated at 6500lbs, would do the trick. I had one (2006) for 7 years and hadn't a single complaint. Only things I changed beside the oil was the front brake pads @ 75K miles! Back then, that was also the only one available with a double cab (4 doors) AND a long bed. Traded it for a V6 Highlander (non-Hybrid) rated at 5000lbs, but my boat/motor/trailer is only around 2500lbs. Highly pleased so far but I'm biased, being my 5th Yota!

 

[agallant80]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

You think of Jeep or a Chevy? You may be able to get newer with more features seeing as american cars don't hold value as-well and I dobut they have more quality issues than a Nissan. I am very happy with my Chevy and my friend loves her Jeep.

 

[gtochris]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

I've driven the Highlander V6 and it's definately a much better asphalt jungle vehicle then the 4Runner,.... but I'm 29, will not be having kids, and the Highlander is a little too "family" for my liking.

I came across an 07 4 Runner with 34,000 miles for 19,500 which seems fair, I might check it out later in the week.

I like the GM full size trucks and think they make the best for the segment (tahoe/ suburban) but not impressed with the smaller. Same goes for Jeep : Grand Cherokee is nice, but Liberty is sub-par.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

I like the GM full size trucks and think they make the best for the segment (tahoe/ suburban) but not impressed with the smaller.

I agree...not impressed at all with the smaller GM SUVs. Their repair records echo that.

 

[Navy Jr.]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Sounds like you've pretty much made up your mind on the 4Runner. Good choice. Our '08 T4R Limited V6 4x4 has been perfect and is a joy to own. The 4th generation (MY 2003-2009), IMO, is the best. Toyota decontented the 5th gen due to the weakened dollar against the yen. We tow around 2,800 lbs and it is awesome. You'll love it!

 

[gtochris]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Sounds like you've pretty much made up your mind on the 4Runner. Good choice. Our '08 T4R Limited V6 4x4 has been perfect and is a joy to own. The 4th generation (MY 2003-2009), IMO, is the best. Toyota decontented the 5th gen due to the weakened dollar against the yen. We tow around 2,800 lbs and it is awesome. You'll love it!

My work has a variety of vehicles and I borrowed a 2013 4Runner 4x4 Limited to pick up my boat from winter storage and tow it the 25 miles home. I wasnt expecting much as I felt it was down on power, but once hooked up, the Torque came alive and it actually did just as well if not better then the 4.8L Tahoe on the hills and highway! I locked out 5th gear and could still pass if needed, braking and control were MUCH better (My 2010 Boat trailer has working discs too). It really impressed me!

I too felt the 4th was the best and the 5th is a little lacking- looks too chunky and FJ Cruiser ish... I'm surprised Toyota isnt trying to go back to that style since it was a winner with most everyone.

Only Silverado/ Sierra flavor I'm considering oddly enough is an 07+ Regular cab/ short bed 4x4 with a V8 and Z71 PKG, (like the sizing), just a really rare combination to find though...

I havent had a car payment in 7 years so getting over that is the biggest issue it seems:facepalm:

 

[H20Rat]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

You think of Jeep or a Chevy? You may be able to get newer with more features seeing as american cars don't hold value as-well and I dobut they have more quality issues than a Nissan. I am very happy with my Chevy and my friend loves her Jeep.

I like the GM full size trucks and think they make the best for the segment (tahoe/ suburban) but not impressed with the smaller. Same goes for Jeep : Grand Cherokee is nice, but Liberty is sub-par.

I second that gtochris... Right now the full line american mfg's (ford, chevy) can't make anything halfway decent that is smaller than a 1/2 ton truck. Their cars are disposable, and the small suv's are more or less cars with more sheet metal. (chrysler at least can turn out some decent cars, their suv and truck line have some reliability issues though.)

There is a reason most american vehicles don't hold value. The market has a knack for sniffing out reliability in a hurry, and vehicles that cost an arm and a leg to own tend to tank in resale.

Jeep liberty... I've got several friends/relatives who all admit buying a liberty was one of their worst vehicle choices EVER! 3 transmissions in 60k miles, female driven as a 15 mile commute vehicle. (no towing) Best part is the transmissions tended to fail by opening up entirely, including no parking brake. If you parked on a hill, it MIGHT go into park, and it MIGHT stay there if you are lucky.

 

[gtochris]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Update:
I was cruising Craigslist and came across a 4runner slightly older then I was looking for but the mileage and price were good, it was a few miles from my work at a local Chevy dealer and I checked it out Friday night. 2005 V6 SR5 4x4, 60,000 miles, Sun roof, step bars, factory tow pkg, silver/ gray cloth. Price was $14,700. I checked it out top to bottom and it was EXTREMELY clean/ straight, only found one ding on the rear bumper cover, frame is mint with minimal corrosion, paint is excellent with no signs of paint work, all panels match, zero rust, appears to be garage kept from the plastic trim showing minimal sun exposure. It drove good. I went back this AM with my partner who also works in the autobody business and he looked it over top to bottom too and agreed it was the best one we have seen so I rolled out 2 hours later for 14K.
We actually already towed the boat with it: and launched it for the summer) very stout, Overall I think I'll be happy with it and it will do the job. Will post pictures soon.

 

[Luckymann77]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Hey Guys !
New to the forum but not to boating, for fishing, or trailering.

Was in this same dilemma, although not with the same budget. Didn't want many, if any, payments either.

We can all say this or that about any brand of vehicle. They ALL have had issues.
There are good and bad ones of every model, too.

With that in mind you just can't beat an American V8 for towing, period.

Trying to keep the budget in check is also easier with a V8 and the market is helpful in that the V8 SUV's, mainly, don't hold their value due to poor gas mileage, which in itself, way down the list when towing.

My choice was a 2003 Durango.
It had a few previous dents that were fixed and weren't a major issue mechanically. Did NOT have the 3rd seat, didn't want to carry that many screaming meanies (children) anyway...LOL. Like having the extra space for GEAR!!!
The last incarnation of the first generation Durango came with the 4.7 ltr with PLENTY of torque, more important than horsepower, FOUR WHEEL DISC brakes and a FIVE speed tranny that has better reliability
NOT big and clunky, and FUN to drive !!! PERFECT SIZE for me and my wife.
I only commute about 20 minutes each way so gas mileage is not so much an issue for me.
With 128k miles and only $3800 I can afford a few repairs.

Seems like a good bunch of guys here.
I've been reading for a few months and finally decided to join.

Ok, bring on the nay sayers...LOL!!!

God Bless,
Luckymann77

 

[briangcc]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

With that in mind you just can't beat an American V8 for towing, period.

I can agree with that. Which is why I have my American built Toyota Tundra - more US content than GM and Dodge offerings.

Nothing wrong with the Durango other than the horrible gas mileage. I know, my ex-girlfriend had one and I drove it a few times. Not bad, had decent power, just horrible mileage. Plus side was that it was full frame and easy to work on.


To the OP, I think you'll be happy with the 4Runner. How about some Pics?? Toyota makes a heck of a vehicle. My dad, diehard GM guy, absolutely loves his '12 Toyota Sienna, and that's saying something since my parents have had Pontiac Montana's since they came out.

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

Another option is the last generation Explorer with the 4.6 engine. I'll really pull a boat since it's a real truck with rear wheel drive. And most have limited slip. 4x4 versions are also common on the used car market.

But I'm still a fan of nicely equipped 1/2 ton pickups to pull trailers. While fuel mileage is improving, it's the durability and high used resale value that I like. Anytime you want to trade, they'll still pull good values and sell very fast.

Me personally? I have a 2003 Ford F250 Lariat Crewcab 7.3 Diesel with captains chairs and every option. With 107K miles, I have more life left in it than a new gasoline pickup of any brand. I get 20 mpg unloaded on the highway, and about 15 mpg loaded heavy. And it never had a warranty claim or has seen any shop. With 700 ft. pounds of torque, it's good for towing up to 14,000 lbs.

 

[agallant80]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

I can agree with that. Which is why I have my American built Toyota Tundra - more US content than GM and Dodge offerings.

Nothing wrong with the Durango other than the horrible gas mileage. I know, my ex-girlfriend had one and I drove it a few times. Not bad, had decent power, just horrible mileage. Plus side was that it was full frame and easy to work on.


To the OP, I think you'll be happy with the 4Runner. How about some Pics?? Toyota makes a heck of a vehicle. My dad, diehard GM guy, absolutely loves his '12 Toyota Sienna, and that's saying something since my parents have had Pontiac Montana's since they came out.

My GM was built in Flint by the local UAW

 

[emilsr]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

As stated before- I wouldnt push the limits of any of the above with towing (5,000 capacity or more) and I'm well below that even with an upgrade.

Don't kid yourself. If you upgrade to a 21' bowrider, you will be pushing the limits of a midsized SUV. Our 20' bowrider weighed right at 5k lbs full of gas on the trailer (actual weigh ticket I think was 5,080) which is about the norm for that size boat. The manufacturer may say they weigh 3,000 lbs, but that's just the boat (and is an estimate anyway).

If you've got a very short tow to the ramp, no problem. A midsize SUV will do that. If however you're making longer trips then you're in 1/2 ton truck/full size SUV territory.

 

[Mason78]

Re: Shopping for a mid-size truck/ SUV...

I looked into the Ridgeline when I was vehicle shopping and concluded that they are a ripoff.

They cost as much as a full size truck, get the gas mileage of a full size truck, but are far less capable. Being a front wheel drive unibody they do not tow more than 5K and the cargo bed is so small its a joke.