[onewhippedpuppy]

We have an '03 4Runner as my wife's car. V6, sport package, 4wd. About 44k on it now, and it's been flawless. The V6 has 240 Hp, I think the 0-60 was about 7, so not bad for an SUV. Highway we get 22-24 MPG, city about 20. The Sport has hydraulic cross linked shocks, like the Audi RS6, so it handles decent for an SUV. Firm but not rough ride, steering is still a bit vague, but far better than any other SUV I've driven. Interior quality is quite good, only the headliner is pretty cheap on ours, and scratches easily. The factory Dunlop tires are crap, replacing those made the ride even better.

That's about all I can say about it, I would highly recomend it. The V8 would be great if you do any towing, or if you just want a V8. The gas mileage hit wasn't worth it to us, plus the V6 actually has more HP, but less torque. 4wd models are ready to rock offroad if that's your thing, I did some light driving on my inlaw's land and it was very capable. Skidplates, locking center diff, downhill descent control, vented diffs, lots of good stuff that my wife sure doesn't need. Good traction and stability control systems too, even my wife can't get it sideways in the snow. I think they added a 3rd row seat to the '04 models. That's about all I can think of to add, if you have any questions about it I'll do my best.

Only other used SUVs in the same range that I would like are the Murano, X5, or maybe a Highlander or Pilot. I'd avoid the Explorer, my inlaws have had a ton of recalls on their Expedition, including one recently for the cruise control box that catches fire, even when the car is off!