Scotty,

I'm in the market for a larger vehicle than my current 2009 Toyota Prius with 234k miles on it. I've done a fair amount of research of cars that have specifications that would meet my life style, i.e. ability to tow over 2000lbs, good gas mileage, AWD, and more interior space. My poor Prius has been used and abused as a work truck and camping rig for too long.

The verdicts I've come across are the following:

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Lexus 400h

Lexus 450h

Now, I know your stance on hybrids but my and my family's experience has been exceptional with this technology. My Toyota Prius has been by far the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned - there's 4 of them currently in my immediate family and none of them have had any problems (mileage ranging from 150k to 234k).

However let me get to my question, which is what vehicle you would recommend. The 400h seems to be significantly cheaper in my area, Oregon, than the 450h but it comes with the 3.3 Liter V6 which seems to be a relatively reliable engine but it has a timing belt that requires servicing every 80k miles. The 450h has the 3.5 Liter V6 that has a timing chain which is why I'm leaning towards purchasing it even though it seems to require an additional $3-4K price tag (it also has push button start which I like a lot). Do you have any experience with either of these engines and if so, which would you purchase? Is the higher price tag for the 450h worth it? Can you comment on the transmissions that hook up to these engines?

Thank you,

Daniel