My brother got into an accident today with his Subaru. Fingers crossed it’s not totaled, but just in case, I’m trying to stay busy and thought I’d ask around. He’s been talking about maybe switching to a Toyota SUV next if he needs a new ride.
He’s a tall guy who needs legroom, and he also hauls arcade machines (think trailer). We’re definitely looking at used ones. Any suggestions? I appreciate the help and keeping me busy while I wait to hear about the car. I’ll keep any advice in mind even if his current one makes it out okay!
Quick note: I drive a little Toyota myself and love it, so I’m hoping he can get one too if he has to replace his Subaru.
[EDIT] Good news! The Outback isn’t totaled, just some door damage. Caliber Collision is working on it right now. I’ll keep the list of suggestions though, because it’s always good to be prepared for when the time comes to replace it. I also told him he’s lucky the airbags didn’t deploy; we all know how that usually means a total loss.
Sequoia if you have a big family or need tons of space.
Haha, definitely not the Sequoia then—he’s single with no kids! He mainly needs good legroom and some towing capability. We’ll see how things go with the Subaru, but thanks for the breakdown!
Does he already have a trailer for the arcade machines?
The Highlander and 4Runner can both tow up to about 5,000 lbs. The 4Runner is cooler if he’s into off-roading. If not, the Highlander’s a better daily driver with better gas mileage. If he’s open to a truck, the Tacoma’s also a good option with 3,500-6,400 lbs towing depending on the engine.
@Hayden
No trailer yet, but thanks for the advice! We live on a dirt road, but it’s nothing crazy. Since he drives into Atlanta a lot, the better gas mileage on the Highlander is a big plus.
Baylen said: @Hayden
No trailer yet, but thanks for the advice! We live on a dirt road, but it’s nothing crazy. Since he drives into Atlanta a lot, the better gas mileage on the Highlander is a big plus.
Highlander Hybrid might be a good balance for his needs.
Baylen said: @Hayden
No trailer yet, but thanks for the advice! We live on a dirt road, but it’s nothing crazy. Since he drives into Atlanta a lot, the better gas mileage on the Highlander is a big plus.
It’s actually a pretty good time to buy a car; lots of people need cash this time of year.
I’d go with a V6 RAV4 or a 2008-2018 Highlander V6 depending on budget. I had a 2009 V6 RAV4 and loved the AWD and pep, but it was a bit tight for my family. I switched to the Highlander for the space and towing. If he needs even more room, the V6 Siennas are great, though a bit louder and more van-like. The Highlander’s my top pick, but if he wants something smaller, maybe a Lexus RX or RAV4.
@Jeharys
Jumping on this to suggest a Lexus GX460 too. I’m a big 4Runner fan, but when mine was totaled, I considered the GX460 since it’s like the 4Runner’s sibling. They’re spacious, comfy, and capable with 4WD and good towing. They were also a bit cheaper compared to similar 4Runners. I ended up back in a 4Runner, but it was a close call. Try renting one if you can, it’s a great way to test it out.
@Zinnia
I’ll definitely pass that along; he’s all about trying cars out before buying. Legroom’s key for him, and I think something like that might be a good fit.
Baylen said: @Zinnia
I’ll definitely pass that along; he’s all about trying cars out before buying. Legroom’s key for him, and I think something like that might be a good fit.
A Tundra could also be a great option if towing’s going to be regular. They’re spacious and great for hauling, and might be easier on the budget depending on the year.
If he’s planning to tow a trailer, I wouldn’t go smaller than a 4Runner. Rav4s and Highlanders are great but more like large cars, while the 4Runner and Sequoia are true trucks with more towing power and space. The 4Runner’s a solid choice for hauling taller items too.
I’ve got a 2018 Highlander, and my husband, who’s 6 ft, finds it roomy enough. He’s picky about space, so that says a lot. We bought it for safety after some rear-end accidents and have no complaints. It’s been reliable and great for our family.