I drive a 2007 ES350. Extreme comfort, exceptional reliability. I thought about replacing the ES with an RX, but noticed how much smaller the 2008 RX350 was than my 2007 ES350. I'd like your thoughts (pros and cons) on other cars in this price range, using my criteria (reliability, cost to operate, comfort and ability to easily tow 2000-2500 # for longish trips). I know there are significant tradeoffs. I'm curious about what YOU see as the pros and cons of the vehicles in my list (and any others you think I should consider).
PROS CONS
MDX
Pilot
Highlander
4runner
For sure, you won’t get the cushy ride that Lexus offers you with any of those you consider. Between these, I think Highlander is the closest you can get. After that, Honda pilot is in the 2nd rank. The 4Runner is a truck based SUV with much rougher ride. The MDX gives you a sport ride.
If the Highlander's towing needs fit you, then get that. If you are fine with the rougher ride and want more towing ability, get the 4Runner. I wouldn't bother with the newer MDX. The Pilot is alright but Highlander would be more reliable.
So, I guess these would be pros and cons:
Highlander:
PROS: reliable, comfortable, spacious, decent towing capacity
CONS: not superior in towing as the 4Runner and not good off road
4Runner:
PROS: good at towing, rugged, reliable
CONS: rough ride, horrendous fuel economy
MDX:
PROS: Sporty drive, nice crossover SUV
CONS: not really meant for comfort, lacks the reliability Honda used to have (very complicated and lowered quality), not good at towing
Pilot:
I don't know much about them so I can't make a list but they are reliable SUVs in the same class as Highlander, but I personally would still take a Highlander any day over a Pilot, unless brand new in which case the Highlander's 'adaptive' transmission is annoying and the Pilot won't hold up well, so I would get a 4Runner (plus 4runners have high resale value, you might as well buy new)
