Parents are in market for a new car... more specifically SUV. Shopped around for a bit and narrowed it down to Toyota 4Runner. Few dealers still had 2008 model leftover. Brand new 2008 Totoya 4Runner SR5 (base model) without any additional options - $24,087 OTD. MSRP was listed at $30,870. Then we came across another SR5 model with JBL sound system ($850 add) and Power seats ($650 add). Was offered $25,000 OTD.

Thinking this is a pretty good deal. Any thoughts?

 

Do they really need a truck-based SUV? if not, the Highlander is a better choice for them.

and if they do need to take the woods home, the previous 4Runner was more off-road capable than this current generation, which has gotten bigger, heavier and lower to the ground.

 

Highlander costs more. Plus need some truck-space. Intent is to carry some boxes around so highlander wouldn't make the cut as far as size goes...

 

I can tell you did a lot of research

Highlander / 4Runner

MSRP $27,600 - $34,520 $28,640 - $39,360
Destination Charge $745 $745
Invoice Price $24,564 - $30,722 $25,574 - $35,147
Available Engines 270-hp 3.5-liter V-6 236-hp 4.0-liter V-6
260-hp 4.7-liter V-8 170-hp 2.5-liter H-4
224-hp 2.5-liter H-4
Available Transmissions 5-spd automatic w/OD and auto-man 5-spd automatic w/OD

Fuel Economy City 17 - 18 mpg 14 - 16 mpg
Fuel Economy Highway 23 - 24 mpg 17 - 21 mpg

 

I believe the new highlander actually has MORE interior cargo room than the 4runner.

 

Why not get a truck then?

 

Don't know about your area... but it gets pretty difficult trying to find BASE model of Highlander. Most I've seen (at least 2008) are well equipped and asking MSRP - $34K to 36K.

Once again, we're only going for 2008 for some savings but our choice is pretty limited.

 

Already have a truck.

 

it does...

 

Why not get a older used model? With the economy do they really want a new one?
For that purpose/price you can get many nice suv's used. Many still under warranty.

 

I think they're getting a better OTD price with a 4R than a Highlander.

 

Well, there you go. You (your parents) just saved $20K+.