Currently, I have 3 vehicles. An 89 911, 2002 X5, and 2005 Honda Odyssey minivan. I have 3 kids with one more on the way which is making my X5 too small to move my family and the one or two odd friends that need a ride. I also tow with my X5 a Tailex trailer and my 911 to DE's. I just looked at a brand new 2007 Lexus LS:
If your like me, you wouldn't look twice at a Lexus unless your a retiring Cardiologist that just want dependable transportation. Think again. I was in the car yesterday and it really looks sweet. Nice update. The downside is that it is really only a 4 passanger vehicle with a large trannsmission hump making the middle rear seat useless. Oh, and its $80,000 dollars also.
The search goes on. I've looked at Audi Q7's, MB's, BMw X5's, all with little interest in driving another SUV. My next line of thought is that I'll buy 2 vehicles. First a used, dependable, SUV that I can tow, haul my family and the odd large object or two. I've narrowed it down to a Toyota Sequoia. Seems to get great dependablility ratings. They've been making them since 2001 also so some could be had for the high teens if you care. This truely will be a car that I will buy out right and then just run it into the ground. With that out of the way, I can then buy the 4 Door Sedan I really want. Doesn't have to be the size and expense of the LS. Doesn't really even have to be new either. What do others like? I'm thinking BMW 5 series as a guide to size and price. The only real criteria is that it is 4 doors, 5 passenger, and performs and handles well enough that I don't miss my 911 every time I drive it.
As always, opinions here are welcomed. One other question. When buying a dependable used car like a Toyota, is it better to go with a higher milage "newer" car or one that is a few years "older".