I am retiring March 2021 and will be looking to buy a 'traveling SUV'. I want one that rides well, handles great, good gas mileage, has roomy front seats and plenty of cargo room to take my 2 sweet kitties and overnight bags for traveling after retirement. I was considering a Lexus R series, Honda pilot, or maybe an armada, or maybe a Hyundai? There are just too many and too many specs. We follow you and trust your advice!
Buy a Highlander it's reliable, comfortable on long trips, and lasts a long time.
I would stay away from Honda Pilot or Passport because they have a timing belt and an interference engine. Eventually you would have to replace the timing belt because if it snaps it will cause catastrophic engine damage. Mazda CX9 would be a second choice. 4Runner lasts a long time but rides like a truck.
Highlander or pilot, both are very good.
Honda or Toyota. Stay away from those Nissan Armadas. Lots of issues and the biggest gas hogs in the bunch.
By far, Honda pilot regardless if it is automatic or stick. My Army buddy has one since 09 or something like that with 400k miles. No issues and he does minimal maintenance.
Thanks everyone for all of your advice! Highlander it is!!!