2020 Toyota Highlander.Jeremy Sinek/The Globe and Mail
We drive a 2014 Nissan Rogue and are generally happy with it, but we like camping and it is not big enough to carry all our stuff. It also has a very low towing capacity and would not be suitable if we decided to go with a tent trailer.
We have a small boat trailer and our usual slip is sandy and steep so 4WD is important. We are retired and don’t drive much in town but do several motorway trips a year so low gas mileage on the motorway is also important.
We always buy used, mostly older vehicles with low mileage. We are looking for a used 4×4 that is spacious and has a good towing capacity, but still has decent mileage on the highway.
Toyota Siennas look good but seem bloated. I prefer more utilitarian vehicles. Any thoughts? – Jan, Vancouver
Petrina Gentile: A The Sienna wouldn’t be my first choice. It wouldn’t even make my top 5 list for Jan’s needs. A minivan isn’t necessary. There are more practical SUVs with four-wheel drive and excellent towing capacity. But Mark, I know you like minivans. What do you think of the Sienna?
Mark Richardson: The Sienna is a great vehicle with plenty of room for everything. Its 3,500-pound towing capacity should be fine for a tent trailer or small boat, but I think Jan is really looking for a Toyota Highlander. The four-cylinder and hybrid versions have the same 3,500-pound towing capacity and are fuel efficient, but the V6 engines are rated at 5,000 pounds, which could make for more safety.
Pagan: They also have all-wheel drive and are practical, comfortable and easy to drive. Plus, they’re a lot more stylish than a Sienna minivan.
Richardson: The Highlander is a solid, larger SUV that is reliable and holds its value well, so that’s an easy answer – should we leave it at that?
Pagan: How about a Subaru? That seems to fit Jan’s lifestyle.
2020 Subaru Forester.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Richardson: The mid-size Ascent tows the most at 5,000 pounds in the higher trim, but the Outback can pull 3,500 pounds. That’s probably fine for Jan with a tent trailer – the 2014 Nissan Rogue is only rated at 1,000 pounds, after all. I always lean toward a higher towing capacity, though, after breaking the transmission on my old Mercury while towing a tent trailer. They’re heavier than they look.
Pagan: I don’t think Jan needs an Ascent – it’s the biggest in the Subaru family with three rows of seats. I think it’s unnecessary, but an Outback would fit perfectly.
Richardson: Nothing is perfect and I’m skeptical about the reliability of Subarus. Most are very good, but when they break down they can be a real headache. Gas mileage can be high too. Still, Jan can get a fairly basic used Outback with low mileage that will probably be OK for around $30,000-$35,000.
Pagan: I know several active families who own and love them. Do you have any other suggestions?
Richardson: I would recommend a Jeep Grand Cherokee if you want comfort, space and towing capacity. Used cars are a good deal and serious reliability issues will likely show up before 100,000 miles.
Jeep Wrangler JK 2021.Emily Atkins/The Globe and Mail
Pagan: This is a good option. It is spacious and can handle anything that comes its way. Used, they are a bit expensive. On Autotrader, you can find some 2020-2022 models for just under $40,000.
Richardson: The Grand Cherokee can tow at least 2.7 tons and up to 3.2 tons, but Jan doesn’t need that capacity. It will be important to look for the smaller, more economical V6 engine and not waste money on the V8.
Pagan: Nobody needs a V8 these days. V6 engines are more than adequate for towing and hauling goods in most situations.
Richardson: At least modern V6 engines. Older engines can be significantly less efficient.
Pagan: Another good option could be the Volkswagen Atlas. What do you think?
Richardson: This is a solid, practical choice in my opinion. Jan should avoid the four-cylinder versions, which are limited to 2,000 pounds of towing, and go for the V6, which can tow 5,000 pounds.
Pagan: I was so impressed when I towed a 3,500 pound boat with it. It never gave me any problems and it didn’t feel like you were dragging anything behind you. And the inside is spacious and nicely appointed.
Richardson: Jan’s tent trailer is probably within the 3,500-pound limit, and a 5,000-pound capacity makes towing effortless. It’s easy to overspend on an overpowered motor that you’ll never use, but if you over-power it, the repairs will be expensive. Since Jan drives a Rogue, would you recommend the larger Nissan Pathfinder?
Pagan: Absolutely. The Pathfinder has excellent towing capacities, is spacious and offers a comfortable and quiet ride. And if Jan has had a good experience with the Rogue and the Nissan dealer, it might make sense to stay with the same family.
Nissan Pathfinder 2022.Mark Richardson/The Globe and Mail
Richardson: I think the Pathfinder and Highlander are very similar vehicles and the Nissan has a great towing capacity. If Jan is happy with the local Nissan dealer, he will probably find the best deal there.
Which car should you buy? Write to Mark and Petrina at [email protected] and use “Which Car” as part of your subject line. Emails with other subject lines may not be responded to.
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