Heavens Wing

Hey guys, I've got a 2010 Chevy Equinox currently. I don't hate the car, but I do not feel safe driving it considering all the recall letters we've gotten on it.

So, my wife and I are looking to trade it in for another vehicle. We want something reliable for 200k miles, (standard maintenance is obvious.) and would like it to be comfortable on long road trips (my wifes family lives 12 hours away.) Right now, she's all about the Lexus RX 350, but it's a bit pricey for us. We're also looking at a Toyota RAV4. I'd really like to stay away from Chevy or GMC also at this time.

I do not have any experience on the mentioned cars though. I'm open to suggestions if anyone has any.

Budget is about 20k. I would like it to be a 07 or newer also.

Thanks guys!

LDfavoriteson

I was in need of a suv a few wks ago. I bought a 2011 pathfinder. They seem to be reliable cars. It's big and is smooth ride. I'm sure it would be good for long trips.

Heavens Wing

Oh, I should mention we aren't looking for a 7 seater either.

My wife really likes the ML550, but I don't know how reliable that vehicle is.

JonBoy

RAV4 will last you forever. Friends of mine just put theirs out to pasture after 13 years and 229K miles with nary a problem.

The Honda CR-V will also provide long-lasting reliability, plus it just received it's mid-model refresh so it has a new transmission, better economy and more features.

Of the "near luxury" SUVs, an RX350 is going to definitely outlast anything else out there (in its class) except possibly an Acura RDX (great vehicle as well).

Reckon

The CRV is good but might be a bit small. If you can find one, a Pilot will be a great SUV. I have had two in the past and loved them both (only traded in to get a more economical Prius for my wife's business).

Heavens Wing

Awesome. So, acura MDX/rdx, cr-v/pilot, lexus rx350 are things to look at. Oh and the Toyota rav4.

JonBoy

New Pilot is going to be out soon - it's a huge improvement and definitely cheaper than an RX350 or something like that, though more expensive than a CR-V. It's huge, though (6- or 7-seater)!

If you want a 5-seater, the Toyota Highlander is also an option.

SlowTeg

New Pilot looks nice, but am I the only one that wonders how it's that different from an MDX? It looks like a larger CRV, but space/features wise I'd think it'll be comparable to the MDX.. Looks like there'll be some considerable overlap between the two vehicles.

rob-2

The MDX/Pilot are the same platform. Like CRV/RDX.

MDX has a better AWD system (SH-AWD), headlights and more luxury features.

If you can find an MDX in your price point you won't be disappointed. If lower miles and new is a priority try the RAV4, just be sure to get AWD. They now made a FWD. Interior on the RAV4 is nice, it's otherwise a lifted corolla drive wise.

JonBoy

Pilot is significantly roomier than an MDX. I like the MDX way more than the current Pilot but if you want room, it's a no-brainer to pick the Pilot.

The new Pilot will be a better bargain than the MDX based on features, economy and roominess plus a new interior design. Still, it's huge and I don't think you need a vehicle that big!