I am nearing retirement and am looking to purchase my last vehicle.
I currently drive 3-4 days a week @ 200 miles each day. 95% freeway.
I've had excellent luck with Toyota but want something different. Less money.
History
1993 Tacoma-315000 mi. Traded it in with broken radio, no 3rd gear of 5 speed manual, and slipping clutch.
2003 Tacoma-285000 mi. Gave to daughter. During ownership it dropped a valve seat.
2012 Tacoma Pre-Runner Access Cab.
Current vehicle @ 225000 mi. Replaced starter @~180000 mi., front pads @ 30000 mi., front pads and rotors @ 200000 mi.(didn't need rotors but put new on as I had them), rear shoes @ 220000 mi.
All were 4 cyl, had scheduled oil changes, brakes and tires AR. Just need something small as it isjust me.
As you can see I've had very good luck with Toyota but don't want to pay their premium prices.
Suggestions?
Clarification: Can you give us constraints for your next vehicle (as much requirements as you can give as possible) to help us hone in for you?
If your present Tacoma is running fine, I’d recommend you hold on to it.
Used car prices are crazy at the moment & as it is, you don’t want to spend a premium for Toyotas, let alone other OEMs.
Plus, your Tacoma might still have plenty of life left in it, to last another 10 years, easily. Especially with 95% highway driving..
Get a lexus es350, as they are not too expensive used.
Toyota seems to have treated you well. They sure have treated me well.
I understand it is a premium for a Toyota. At the same time, I think their longevity gets you a better bang for your buck than other makes. It’s just the initial hit in price is significant.
I personally like the RAV4, CRV, Lexus NX, and Acura RDX. I think they give the most utility and bang for your buck. They are great as daily drivers, but also good for long road trips.