rexlion wrote:
I put 140,000 miles of towing (for work and play) on my '08 Highlander. I sold it with 185K total on the odometer. By that time the transmission temp light would come on sometimes when climbing long grades at higher elevation (Rockies). I was happy with it up until then. Good power in most situations, although climbing while in a strong headwind would cause me to slow down to 38-40 mph and use a lower gear. I did have a 16'L x 7'W x 99"H KZ travel trailer for about 3 years, 2700 lbs total and about 375 lbs (loaded) on the hitch. And I used the Andersen hitch, mainly to reduce the humping over the expansion joints and to smooth out the ride; it was pretty nice to use compared to my old Equal-i-zer.
Now I have a '08 Lexus GX470 with 4.7L V8. The thing I like best about it is the air suspension, which stiffens the rear and keeps it level even with trailer attached.
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Agree about the GX. Earlier this year I went through the process of trying to replace a 2005 4Runner V8 Sport due to an accident and found that it was not easy finding one in great condition, decent mileage, 2005-2009 year range with a V8, but I did find a well maintained GX470 with the same 4.7 V8 and I'm pleasantly surprised how well it tows my 3500 pound boat. Not great MPG, but it's a recreational vehicle and not a commuter. That Toyota 4.7 and matched transmission are rock solid based upon opinions from mechanics and transmission techs I've talked to over the years.
