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The Lounge => General Truck and SUV Banter => Topic started by: Tortoise on Feb 06, 2026, 08:43 AM

Title: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 06, 2026, 08:43 AM
The highlander is almost 19 years old and has been starting to show its age.  It's getting to the point where I think it's time to replace it. We do a fair bit of driving in remote stretches so it would be nice to have something I can fully trust.

The basic requirements are that it can tow a small fishing boat and carry the family and all the gear needed for the cottage/camping. IMO that rules out the CR-V/RaV4 class of CUVs because they can't tow the boat and carry the load. I tend to keep my cars for a while, so reliability and operating costs are a factor. I'd also like it to be a colour after having a series of cars that were black, white and silver.

The budget is around $35k-ish.

In a vacuum I'd pick up a used Volvo V90 or an Audi Q7. But, I don't live in a vacuum and have concerns around the operating costs.

Other top picks are a Toyota Highlander or Lexus 350L, but the 8spd transmission in those is a well known weak point, so they are out.

I don't have much interest in the Kia/Hyundai twins or the VW Atlas.

I've narrowed down the search to:

Honda Passport
I don't think we need the space of the Pilot, and I like the size.  They also seem cheaper than the Pilot. Ideally I'd get a post refresh 2022 model since they look a little better. These seem to be a good bet for long term ownership. I liked Gurgie's when I got a ride in it.

Mazda CX-90 MHEV
These are surprisingly affordable used, but I'm not sure that's a good sign. There's quite a few 2024's that were traded in. I love the looks and powertrain, and the efficiency of the MHEV would be nice. I have some long term concerns with it being the first model year, somewhat complicated, and the complaints about squeaks and rattles. The GS-L would be a good trim, I just need one with roof rails because it'll wear a roof box for most of the winter.

Mazda CX-9
These are coming down in price and were reasonably well liked. The size would work for us, but I think for a little more money the CX-90 is a nicer option.

Highlander Hybrid/Lexus 450h
These obviously don't have the transmission issues, but people know what they have and the prices are ridiculous, especially for the Highlander (they are basically the same as the Lexus). The perfect option would be the RX450hL since I think the regular RX might be a but small. These are super rare.

Acura MDX
A bit of a long shot, but the prices are coming down on the previous gen models. A friend has one and loves it. They certainly drive nicely, and I like the interior, but I found the back seats to be pretty uncomfortable due to the low position of the seating due to the low roofline. That's not a dealbreaker.

Am I missing anything obvious? This will likely drag on for a while since we're busy with ski season and don't really have time to go out shopping. So, brace yourself.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 06, 2026, 09:37 AM
https://www.autotrader.ca/offers/toyota-4-runner-sr5-gasoline-red-b6d82a9c-fd5e-44ed-952c-20dd077de052?sort=standard&desc=0&position=33&source_otp=t10&source=listpage_search-results&order_bucket=unknown&boost_level=b1&applied_boost_level=b1&relevance_adjustment=boost&boosting_product=total_boost


Holy Crap these are expensive!!!!!  Low mileage examples are $55-65K!!!!
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 06, 2026, 09:45 AM
Right? Bonkers. Highlander Hybrids are about the same. It makes no sense.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 06, 2026, 10:50 AM
My sister had an RX450hL, size wise I think it'll be smaller than your Highlander behind the 2nd row.

Anecdotal but my friend's old CX-9 2.5L turbo self destructing doesn't give me a lot of confidence, coming from someone who put faith in the 1st year of the Skyactiv engines.

If you're considering Honda Passport, maybe take a look at Nissan Pathfinder as well since they made the switch back to a conventional 9 speed automatic transmission in 2022. The Hondas are nice, but they still have a timing belt.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Blizzard on Feb 06, 2026, 11:02 AM
My pick out of the bunch would be an MDX. My parents' neighbours had a 2018 or 2019 that I drove once, and it was super smooth. The engine definitely felt like the highlight of the car, and it was very comfortable all around. When their lease was over they got an Infiniti QX60, since they found the Acura was too "sporty" and "firm".

The popularity of the MDX seems to have fallen off a cliff in the last 5 years, I barely see any of the 2022-current generation. These used to be EVERYWHERE along with the Lexus RX, but they both seem to have been replaced as the defacto upper-middle class family vehicle by Teslas.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Feb 06, 2026, 12:43 PM
I think if you want the same ownership experience (mostly), hybrid HL or RX.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 06, 2026, 01:00 PM
Maybe look at it as, if you're buying a 2020, you're going to keep it to 2040. If you're buying a 2026, it'll take you out to 2046. There might not be a lot of cost difference.

I get the age thing. I had no doubt our 2004 Sienna's engine and transmission was going to make it to half a million km, but the upkeep of everything around it and my partner's sanity made it worth going newer (or new in our case).
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 06, 2026, 02:06 PM
And you don't live in a salt bet!

By long term, I'm thinking on the order of 8 years, 120k km. And then likely take it from there.

Eventually the Golf will be replaced by a City EV, so this will be the hauler/road trip car.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Bridgecity on Feb 06, 2026, 03:14 PM
I'm biased, but I'd go with the previous gen MDX.  Great AWD system, sweet V6, solid reliability, good handling for what it is. There may be a TSB/recall on a year or two of the V6, can't recall so maybe look that up.  Sold my '14 with 140k kms for 21k in fall of '24.  Great value for someone considering shit boxes are 10k. 

Passport is a solid choice also.  Again, I'm biased.

Timing belt on the Honda 3.5 has never been a concern for me.  $1500 for water pump/tensioner/belt service at the dealer every 100-160k kms depending on driving habits.  I know chains can last a lifetime, but they can also require work (tensioners mostly) and are far more expensive to repair. 
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Blueprint on Feb 06, 2026, 04:33 PM
I don't know how's the reliability for one of these things with the V6, but it tows 4,000 lbs (with the tow pkg) and is sized closer to your Highlander. Resale probably much lower than Passport et al (the Honda IS an excellent choice, in any case, but thirsty), thanks to depreciation. Easy service at rural dealers and shops all over the place.

We had quite the roadtrip with this presser and liked it. A bit of a squeeze for 5, but fold the 3rd row and you'll have plenty of room. Good on gas on long stints.

https://www.autohebdo.net/editorial/20230823/gmc-acadia-slt-2023-essai-routier (https://www.autohebdo.net/editorial/20230823/gmc-acadia-slt-2023-essai-routier)
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Feb 06, 2026, 07:38 PM
I think the Honda Passport would suit your needs the best. I kinda miss mine, it's a little more simple than my CX-70 tech wise. The V6 is a bit thirsty, but the AWD system is fantastic. I'd stretch to get the top trim Touring version as the options do make it a little more luxurious. Other soft spot I have would be for a Grand Cherokee, the Pentastar V6 has been quite reliable, the AWD system is second to none & the towing capacity is very good. A 4runner would be a fantastic choice as well, just would have to go older & higher mileage. I haven't ever dug into what an Explorer's reliability is like, but they do look good, great powertrains, not sure how they hold up, but the cops like em.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Blueprint on Feb 06, 2026, 08:29 PM
Quote from: Gurgie on Feb 06, 2026, 07:38 PMI think the Honda Passport would suit your needs the best. I kinda miss mine, it's a little more simple than my CX-70 tech wise. The V6 is a bit thirsty, but the AWD system is fantastic. I'd stretch to get the top trim Touring version as the options do make it a little more luxurious. Other soft spot I have would be for a Grand Cherokee, the Pentastar V6 has been quite reliable, the AWD system is second to none & the towing capacity is very good. A 4runner would be a fantastic choice as well, just would have to go older & higher mileage. I haven't ever dug into what an Explorer's reliability is like, but they do look good, great powertrains, not sure how they hold up, but the cops like em.

The Pentastar's rep is going downhill these days, and the cops love their Explorers because they have a smooth atmo V6 the public can't have. The Ecoboost four (Mustang engine) is a great match, but reliability is so-so. Great on gas, drives well, although the rwd architecture hurts the room. Great for towing though.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Johnnymac on Feb 07, 2026, 02:09 PM
Couple of questions, how many passengers and maybe dogs do you need room for (seeing if 3rd row is a must) and how much towing capacity do you need to feel comfortable.

I know that some small CUVs can have decent towing capacity in certain models, like the Subaru Crosstrek as an example has a single model capable of towing I think 3,500lbs as opposed to maybe 2,000lbs in all the other models.  There was also a Toyota RAV4 with a similar model capable of towing more than all others.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 07, 2026, 03:10 PM
Quote from: Johnnymac on Feb 07, 2026, 02:09 PMCouple of questions, how many passengers and maybe dogs do you need room for (seeing if 3rd row is a must) and how much towing capacity do you need to feel comfortable.

I know that some small CUVs can have decent towing capacity in certain models, like the Subaru Crosstrek as an example has a single model capable of towing I think 3,500lbs as opposed to maybe 2,000lbs in all the other models.  There was also a Toyota RAV4 with a similar model capable of towing more than all others.

Absolutely. With the current RAV4, any trim level except LE has a 3,500 lb towing capacity. In the two previous gens, you would look for the RAV4 Trail.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Firm on Feb 07, 2026, 05:55 PM
I would seriously consider a previous generation (up to 2022 I believe) Grand Cherokee. Should be able to find one well under budget, and since you're buying used I'd find a fully loaded up top trim like a Summit, or the TrailHawk if you're into it. The interior in the Summit blows anything else mentioned here out of the water IMO. 3.6L Pentastar is really good, there is a 5.7L Hemi available if you're interested, and it has a properly capable 4x4 system unlike a lot of the other stuff mentioned here.

That platform dates back to the Daimler partnership days, and actually shares a lot of it's structure and components with the Mercedes ML from the mid 2000's. As a result, it feels quite German, rock solid, handles well, rides well, and they seem to hold up to abuse well. I have a couple of female co-workers with these who absolutely rag on them, no maintenance, careless driving, etc and they've been rock solid. I've changed an evap hose that's prone to cracking in the engine bay on both of them, done brakes on one of them, pulled out a crunched fender on one of them, plus oil changes, filters, etc...They're easy to work on with plenty of DIY resources online.

Don't even think about the current generation - straight up Stellantis junk. Ride, feel, build quality, etc, all a serious downgrade from the older generation.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Johnnymac on Feb 07, 2026, 08:40 PM
What Firm says is likely true and I would definitely recommend the V6 as that's their most reliable engine, plus decent power and efficiency.

But I will say I would understand if you are nervous about the Jeep reputation of reliability, as I would be hesitant also.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Johnnymac on Feb 08, 2026, 03:00 PM
How about just a new version of your old highlander just with a lot less kms.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1SMsueAcHC/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 09, 2026, 02:27 PM
Quote from: dkazzed on Feb 06, 2026, 10:50 AMIf you're considering Honda Passport, maybe take a look at Nissan Pathfinder as well since they made the switch back to a conventional 9 speed automatic transmission in 2022. The Hondas are nice, but they still have a timing belt.

I do like the looks of the Pathfinder, so sharp. But, I don't really trust them long term. Am I wrong?

Quote from: Blueprint on Feb 06, 2026, 04:33 PMWe had quite the roadtrip with this presser and liked it. A bit of a squeeze for 5, but fold the 3rd row and you'll have plenty of room. Good on gas on long stints.

Same with the GM. I can't help but think these things will be a death by a thousand cuts.

Quote from: Johnnymac on Feb 07, 2026, 02:09 PMCouple of questions, how many passengers and maybe dogs do you need room for (seeing if 3rd row is a must) and how much towing capacity do you need to feel comfortable.

I know that some small CUVs can have decent towing capacity in certain models, like the Subaru Crosstrek as an example has a single model capable of towing I think 3,500lbs as opposed to maybe 2,000lbs in all the other models.  There was also a Toyota RAV4 with a similar model capable of towing more than all others.

I don't really need the 3-row capacity, seating for 5 will cover me 99% of the time. And the boat and trailer is a max of 1200 lbs, though I may eventually get something bigger. My issue with the small CUVs isn't the towing capacity, it's the GCVR limits. Between the 4 of us, the 100 lb dog and all the food and gear for a week at the cottage/camping I think a RaV4 will be over matched. For reference, our cottage is on an island that's a 30-40 minute boat ride so we have to bring all our food/gear when we go. Our Highlander sagged when towing the boat with a full load, though it drove fine. I can't imagine a RaV4 would be better.

Quote from: Firm on Feb 07, 2026, 05:55 PMI would seriously consider a previous generation (up to 2022 I believe) Grand Cherokee.

Hmmmm, thanks for the left field suggestion, they do look great inside and out. I watched a video last night and it painted a grim picture. Lots of stuff is buried and pain in the ass to get to, meaning even simple repairs become a massive hassle. This was for a first year model so I will see if the later versions are better. I did like Gurgie's when I rode in it, but he had a few issues that shouldn't have been happening at such low mileage. So, colour me jaded. And it seems like the 3.6 is starting to have some head gasket issues that is a massive job to fix.

The other two options are the Subaru Outback or Ascent. I don't mind the Outback, but I am not sure what the Ascent brings to the table that the others don't. And I am not a fan of the 2022+ models where everything is incorporated into the giant screen.

Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 09, 2026, 02:27 PM
Quote from: Johnnymac on Feb 08, 2026, 03:00 PMhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1SMsueAcHC/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Ha! My wife would kill me if I bought that. But man, it seems really clean.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 02:45 PM
I think Gurgie's Grand Cherokee was an EcoDiesel, but I don't recall if his issues were related to the EcoDiesel or not? Either way, that's definitely an engine to avoid. I haven't heard much on the 3.6L in terms of head gaskets, and there's tons of examples of fleet vehicles with massive miles on them, so if there is anything I suspect it's the exception rather than the norm. The biggest risk, I think, would be the electronics....Stellantis does some weird stuff, but done of it would be a deal breaker for me.

For what it's worth, I'd avoid any GM with a turbocharger under the hood....They're all trash.

Outback & Ascent are just too bland IMO. A friend here has an Ascent and I hate riding in it, it's just extremely mediocre at everything and good at nothing.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 09, 2026, 02:55 PM
I seem to recall that Gurgie had some suspension issues, nothing related to the Diesel. I also watched a Car Wizard video on the JGC, he mentioned that head gaskets are becoming a pretty common failure and doesn't recommend the motor. Could just be for the likes, but a google search suggests it's not that rare.

If I did a lot of my own wrenching then it would be easier to justify.

Quote from: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 02:45 PMOutback & Ascent are just too bland IMO. A friend here has an Ascent and I hate riding in it, it's just extremely mediocre at everything and good at nothing.

This is also how I feel.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 09, 2026, 03:23 PM
^^^ Since my buddy's Pentastar in his Ram started ticking (the same issue the Hemi's have) at 200 000kms, I've revised my recommendation for that engine.  Our mechanic said it's not worth fixing, and quoted him a re-man engine at $10k. 

There is now nothing in Chrysler's fleet that I can recommend with good conscience, especially for 2nd and 3rd owners (which is the market I play in myself...)
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 09, 2026, 03:25 PM
I still think that 4Runner is the best option.  It's actually a vehicle that can haul and tow, being a body-on-frame truck.  Even with 200 000kms on it, it's got plenty of life left.  Plus they look so cool. 

As long as you can put up with the horrendous fuel economy.  I've got a buddy with a 2018 SR5, and it drinks more fuel than a 5.0 F-150. 
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 09, 2026, 03:28 PM
Here's a 3-row Limited with 150 000kms for $37k.
https://www.autotrader.ca/offers/toyota-4-runner-limited-7-passengers-gasoline-blue-e5e86dc6-c2c7-4f9d-b6ad-6e331ebc43ef?ipc=recommendation&ipl=expireddetailpage-engine-itemBased&source=detailpage_expired&position=1&source_otp=t10&ap_tier=t10&boost_level=b1&applied_boost_level=b1&relevance_adjustment=organic&boosting_product=none (https://www.autotrader.ca/offers/toyota-4-runner-limited-7-passengers-gasoline-blue-e5e86dc6-c2c7-4f9d-b6ad-6e331ebc43ef?ipc=recommendation&ipl=expireddetailpage-engine-itemBased&source=detailpage_expired&position=1&source_otp=t10&ap_tier=t10&boost_level=b1&applied_boost_level=b1&relevance_adjustment=organic&boosting_product=none)
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 09, 2026, 03:39 PM
Assuming that the non 3-row version has more cargo room I'd go that route.

Thing is, you can get a 2022 Passport with 65k kms for that price. It's more comfortable, has more passenger room, is more refined, etc. I don't care how reliable the 4Runner is, the prices are bonkers.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 09, 2026, 03:50 PM
Sure, but when the Passport is twenty years old with 200 000kms on it like that old Highlander, it'll be worth $5-6k.  The 4Runner at twenty years old with 300 000kms on it will be worth $15-20k.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 09, 2026, 04:02 PM
I am not so sure. I just did a FB Marketplace search of 2007 4Runners and 2007 Pilots and the difference maybe $4k-5k. I think $15k-20k is ambitious. But that could be the Ontario/Quebec market where salt eventually takes its toll.

And I don't see myself holding onto this vehicle until its 20 years old.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 09, 2026, 05:42 PM
Consider helper air bags or a weight distribution hitch to reduce/eliminate the rear sag. Some WDHs help with sway too.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 06:13 PM
The issue with 4Runners is that they drive pretty poorly on-road; way less refined than anything else discussed here. Good friend of mine had a 2021 that he bought about a year ago, just had their first baby and quickly traded it on a 2018 Yukon. Made $ on the trade, improved fuel economy (5.3L in the Yuk), plus way more space and refinement. He's a Toyota guy, but ended up being really disappointed in the 4Runner's driving dynamics as a daily on-road family vehicle.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Feb 09, 2026, 06:45 PM
Quote from: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 06:13 PM. He's a Toyota guy, but ended up being really disappointed in the 4Runner's driving dynamics as a daily on-road family vehicle.

Then he didn't do his due diligence. It's no secret that 4Runners don't excel in that area.

Much like Jeep Wranglers. Almost every person I've known that owned one complained about that and/or sold it as that being the primary reason...poor ride quality/on road manners.

Also, who knew a near-luxury full size SUV would ride better than a mid-size SUV with off road aspirations? Answer: everyone.  LOL 😆
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 08:38 PM
I told him such before he bought the 4Runner, but he was dead-set on needing to have the reliability...Don't think he cross shopped much. He learned that reliability is only worthwhile if you enjoy driving it enough to keep it long-term.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Feb 09, 2026, 08:48 PM
Quote from: Firm on Feb 09, 2026, 08:38 PMDon't think he cross shopped much.

No doubt.

A HL would have done what he needed without the ride penalty.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 10, 2026, 02:04 AM
I think newer HL is the answer then.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 07:45 AM
It would be if the auto in the V6 wasn't a concern. So that only leaves the Hybrid versions which are hard to find, and priced like gold.

The new Outlander PHEV seems like an interesting proposition. I'm not sure on the long term reliability, but using less fuel is quite appealing.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 08:56 AM
I think Passport is your best bet based on what you want it to do, plus your kids are just gonna get bigger, so the back seat space is gonna be appreciated.

https://www.autotrader.ca/a/honda/passport/kingston/ontario/5_68660425_20230620205848026/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&orup=12_12_16&sprx=250&lstIdx=12&srtOrd=PriceAsc&lstName=advancedSearch&modalXS=1

https://www.autotrader.ca/a/honda/passport/brampton/ontario/5_68612080_on20070924092442010/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&ursrc=hl&orup=12_14_18&sprx=500&lstIdx=13&srtOrd=PriceAsc&lstName=advancedSearch&modalXS=1
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 10, 2026, 09:02 AM
Quote from: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 07:45 AMIt would be if the auto in the V6 wasn't a concern. So that only leaves the Hybrid versions which are hard to find, and priced like gold.

The new Outlander PHEV seems like an interesting proposition. I'm not sure on the long term reliability, but using less fuel is quite appealing.

With a ten year warranty, who cares?  Buy it new, drive for a decade, then sell.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 09:05 AM
Quote from: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 08:56 AMhttps://www.autotrader.ca/a/honda/passport/brampton/ontario/5_68612080_on20070924092442010/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&ursrc=hl&orup=12_14_18&sprx=500&lstIdx=13&srtOrd=PriceAsc&lstName=advancedSearch&modalXS=1

Ooooh, I like this one. That's the spec and colour I would be looking for.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 09:06 AM
Quote from: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 09:05 AM
Quote from: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 08:56 AMhttps://www.autotrader.ca/a/honda/passport/brampton/ontario/5_68612080_on20070924092442010/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&ursrc=hl&orup=12_14_18&sprx=500&lstIdx=13&srtOrd=PriceAsc&lstName=advancedSearch&modalXS=1

Ooooh, I like this one. That's the spec and colour I would be looking for.

Down in Brampton, my old stomping grounds  ;D
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 10, 2026, 09:27 AM
Quote from: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 09:06 AMDown in Brampton, my old stomping grounds  ;D

So, does the air in Brampton have a faint whiff of cigar smoke and good whiskey?
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 10:37 AM
Quote from: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 10, 2026, 09:27 AM
Quote from: Gurgie on Feb 10, 2026, 09:06 AMDown in Brampton, my old stomping grounds  ;D

So, does the air in Brampton have a faint whiff of cigar smoke and good whiskey?

Ha, ha, ha!! Couldn't afford those back then... more luck rum & coke, or rye & ginger ale back in those days  ;D
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Feb 10, 2026, 11:50 AM
Avoid the Outlander PHEV. Winter issues related to the batteries at a centre of a class acvtion lawsuit. Various forum posts and Youtube videos on it. The "Will it start?" below -20. EREVs are the way to go once they start showing up.

$36k for a Passport that's a bit more than halfway to needing a new timing belt, is that right?
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 11:57 AM
Quote from: dkazzed on Feb 10, 2026, 11:50 AMAvoid the Outlander PHEV. Winter issues related to the batteries at a centre of a class acvtion lawsuit. Various forum posts and Youtube videos on it. The "Will it start?" below -20. EREVs are the way to go once they start showing up.

$36k for a Passport that's a bit more than halfway to needing a new timing belt, is that right?

Good to know. We definitely have been getting that level of cold.

And that's right, the market is crazy. I figure this will see ~20k km/yr, so it would be due in about 4 years. The cost of a timing belt swap isn't a dealbreaker. Hell, it's basically two of the 60k services for the Golf.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Feb 10, 2026, 08:35 PM
Quote from: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 07:45 AMIt would be if the auto in the V6 wasn't a concern. So that only leaves the Hybrid versions which are hard to find, and priced like gold.

The new Outlander PHEV seems like an interesting proposition. I'm not sure on the long term reliability, but using less fuel is quite appealing.

I think Revelations has a friend with one with high mileage
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Feb 10, 2026, 11:47 PM
Quote from: dkazzed on Feb 10, 2026, 11:50 AMEREVs are the way to go once they start showing up.



That's what the Outlander is? The engine is just a gas generator...It doesn't drive the wheels like my Prius
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Feb 11, 2026, 09:10 AM
Quote from: Tortoise on Feb 10, 2026, 11:57 AM
Quote from: dkazzed on Feb 10, 2026, 11:50 AMAvoid the Outlander PHEV. Winter issues related to the batteries at a centre of a class acvtion lawsuit. Various forum posts and Youtube videos on it. The "Will it start?" below -20. EREVs are the way to go once they start showing up.

$36k for a Passport that's a bit more than halfway to needing a new timing belt, is that right?

Good to know. We definitely have been getting that level of cold.

And that's right, the market is crazy. I figure this will see ~20k km/yr, so it would be due in about 4 years. The cost of a timing belt swap isn't a dealbreaker. Hell, it's basically two of the 60k services for the Golf.

Yup, that's the market!! I was given $28k for my 2019 Passport with 81,000kms on it in June 2025, and then the dealership put it up for $34k, so a 2022 for $36k isn't outta whack.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Blueprint on Feb 26, 2026, 08:32 AM
My old boss just took delivery of his new Passport. He loves it so far, except for the fact that it won't go below 14 l/100 km...
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: GreatBigAbyss on Feb 26, 2026, 11:42 AM
In the winter?  It's not really that bad.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Bridgecity on Feb 26, 2026, 11:50 AM
14L/100km doesn't mean much unless there's a comparison to other vehicles on the same route or we know specifics of the route. 

I got in the wife's MDX the other day and it was sitting at 18.  If I were to drive it back forth to work it would be around 10. 
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Feb 26, 2026, 11:54 AM
I really really like the new Passport.  But the $60k starting prices are crazy.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Mar 04, 2026, 11:54 AM
Have you made a decision or narrowed down your search?

From what I'm seeing on Reddit, don't get a Highlander with the 8 speed auto.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Mar 04, 2026, 12:49 PM
Haven't really made any moves yet. We're so busy during ski season that there's no real time to go and test drive cars.

And yeah, I'm disappointed we have to avoid the Highlanders and Lexus RX's with the 8 speed auto.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Fobroader on Mar 06, 2026, 01:05 PM
My moms 22 Lexus RX450h is the perfect retiree vehicle. AWD so snow and ice aren't a problem, easy to get in and out of, great fuel mileage, and enough sensors to avoid all those senior moments in parking lots haha
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: dkazzed on Mar 06, 2026, 03:07 PM
The hybrids will definitely be ok.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Apr 08, 2026, 08:08 AM
Still haven't had much time to go looking. And the Highlander is soldiering on just fine for the moment.

Ron had sent me this link for an MDX Hybrid. I didn't know they were a thing but I'm intrigued. It has a 3.0L V6, 7spd DCT, and three electric motors. Basically a similar setup to the NSX.

Reviews are very positive and the forums aren't revealing any issues with the powertrain. The transmission fluid changes are a simple drain and fill (vs VW's costly fluid swaps), and other maintenance seems easy.

Downsides are the old tech, additional repair costs of the adaptive dampers, and potential issues getting parts (these things are pretty rare, only one for sale nationwide, but I assume people are holding onto them). Towing isn't recommended, but I'm sure it' fine with a boat as light as mine.

Upsides are more performance and much better fuel economy.

https://www.autotrader.ca/a/acura/mdx/nepean/ontario/5_69379936_20091230073138111/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&ursrc=hl&orup=1_1_1&pc=K1Z%208J4&sprx=-1&lstIdx=1&srtOrd=ScoringProfileBoostDesc&lstName=advancedSearch
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Gurgie on Apr 08, 2026, 09:15 AM
Interesting! And local!! I had no clue these things existed either. Looks good in the pictures, not sure about the price though? Seems a bit on the higher side, but I guess you're paying for the Hybrid. Noticed it has after market wheels & winters, hopefully they have the stock wheels with summers :D
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Apr 08, 2026, 09:38 AM
The Facebook ad says it comes with two sets of wheels and tires. Which is nice.

Agreed the price is a bit much for a 2017, especially since the premium for the hybrid was about $4k when new.

Either way, it's something unique.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Bridgecity on Apr 08, 2026, 10:08 AM
We loved our '14.  Only downside to it was the tech, but bluetooth worked fine.  If you don't care about Carplay or Android Auto I'm sure you can live with it. 

For reference, we sold the '14 in late 2024 for 21K.  This unit has less kms and is a step up in the trim and driving experience, so price isn't crazy out of line.  I also sold ours with one set of wheels.  Worth a drive anyway if its local.  Would be neat having something more unique that's for sure.
Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: Tortoise on Apr 08, 2026, 10:17 AM
Good perspective on the pricing.

It's also a few grand less than the equivalent Highlander Hybrid.

Here's another unicorn, the L version of the 450h: https://www.autotrader.ca/a/lexus/rx/toronto/ontario/5_69616112_20160401114447468/

Title: Re: Looking for a New SUV
Post by: RRocket on Apr 08, 2026, 10:55 AM
Quote from: Tortoise on Today at 10:17 AMGood perspective on the pricing.

It's also a few grand less than the equivalent Highlander Hybrid.

Here's another unicorn, the L version of the 450h: https://www.autotrader.ca/a/lexus/rx/toronto/ontario/5_69616112_20160401114447468/



Oh that's nice!