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We thought we picked out an SUV....but we are having doubts
We are really struggling with which SUV to purchase. We have a list of pros and cons and was asking for opinions
Here is our list with pros and cons:
Infiniti - great car,everything included for the price. All the bells and whistles except remote start. Cons the rear and back seats and smaller vs the Sequoia and the others and the cubic feet in cargo space is smaller Also the engine noise is pronounced. The navigation system and backup camera is superior to the others.Miles per gallon the worst of the bunch and need to buy premium. We do have an opportunity to buy a used QX56 with 18,000 on the cheap (like mid 30's for an 08- former lease trade in) but he realiability history is an issue as well. Also the closest place to do any warranty word is 45 minutes away which could prove to be a pain. Warranty is 4 years, 40,000
Sequoia-great driving, easy for me to park and drive, great room in all seats, great power. The cons are that even with the platinum we either have to pay for things like an IPOd interface kit, applique wood, sonor, and the satellite receiver. All of those do start adding up. Plus the dash is worst looking and laid out by far and the outside looks like a truck, ugly, ugly, I can over look the look of everything but it also doesn't have 2nd row heated and memory seats, or adjustable pedal.Those things are just not available even as an option. The navigation system and the dials are too far from the drivers side and we find the navigation system difficult. Warranty only 3 years 36,000.
Navigator- has everything the space, the gadits, but the dash is unappealing and really we feel odd these days driving around in such a ostentatious vehicle. A little to flashy and doesn't drive as nice as the others but like I said everything is in this care.
The Expedition- has mostly everything gadgit, just don't like the look of the outside-we have not driven this one yet. The overall cost is a lot less of the others. It is not as beast looking as the Sequoia, I just haven't warmed up to it yet. The price point for this one is a lot less.
Any suggestions and am I missing anything on the comparisons from those who have compared before?
Here is our list with pros and cons:
Infiniti - great car,everything included for the price. All the bells and whistles except remote start. Cons the rear and back seats and smaller vs the Sequoia and the others and the cubic feet in cargo space is smaller Also the engine noise is pronounced. The navigation system and backup camera is superior to the others.Miles per gallon the worst of the bunch and need to buy premium. We do have an opportunity to buy a used QX56 with 18,000 on the cheap (like mid 30's for an 08- former lease trade in) but he realiability history is an issue as well. Also the closest place to do any warranty word is 45 minutes away which could prove to be a pain. Warranty is 4 years, 40,000
Sequoia-great driving, easy for me to park and drive, great room in all seats, great power. The cons are that even with the platinum we either have to pay for things like an IPOd interface kit, applique wood, sonor, and the satellite receiver. All of those do start adding up. Plus the dash is worst looking and laid out by far and the outside looks like a truck, ugly, ugly, I can over look the look of everything but it also doesn't have 2nd row heated and memory seats, or adjustable pedal.Those things are just not available even as an option. The navigation system and the dials are too far from the drivers side and we find the navigation system difficult. Warranty only 3 years 36,000.
Navigator- has everything the space, the gadits, but the dash is unappealing and really we feel odd these days driving around in such a ostentatious vehicle. A little to flashy and doesn't drive as nice as the others but like I said everything is in this care.
The Expedition- has mostly everything gadgit, just don't like the look of the outside-we have not driven this one yet. The overall cost is a lot less of the others. It is not as beast looking as the Sequoia, I just haven't warmed up to it yet. The price point for this one is a lot less.
Any suggestions and am I missing anything on the comparisons from those who have compared before?
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Comments
CanStacker
Thanks so much for your response. Thanks for sharing what you thought and what you decided to buy. Can I ask if you looked any other SUV's and if you looked at any of the crossovers? We are really trying to give the crossovers a change but they are a tight as far as room. I will go back and look at your posting from September too....the other issue we are finding with the Sequoia is that there are a list of things we have to add which is making the cost go up....wood applique, satellite receiver (it doesn't have the satellite right now in it all all) and we cannot get an ipod assessory with the satellite...it is either one or another) and remote start we would need to add as well. The other thing was that it does not have any seat memory which comes standard in most other SUV's. Thanks for your reply.
The Infiniti is a quality vehicle with the most attractive interior. Best finish work of the 4 SUVs you're considering. Most features including HD sound system and HID headlights not available in the others. The interior is on the smallish size particularly if your family members are large. I'm 6'4 and the rest of the family are also large so elbow room in the Q is a definite consideration. Driving 45 minutes for basic servicing would be an issue for me. You'll also need to plan for premium fuel with Q which could become an issue because gas will definitely be in the upper range sometime during the next 4 years. There's also the consideration you'll likely be in the last year or 2 of this vehicle which could significantly effect its resale 4 years from now. Personally I find the Q to be the least attractive on the outside. Looks to me like 3 different vehicles they tried to cobble together with headlights that simply look odd to me. But that's just my taste.
The Sequoia really depends on which model you're considering. I assume the Platinum is within the budget if you're looking at the Nav and Q. The interior of the Seq is not well designed for small people. You'll need long arms to reach all the way across the Nav unit. OTOH, if the family that's using the vehicle are tall, they will really value the tremendous leg room in the second and 3rd row seats, not too mention the electric reclining 3rd row seats which no other model has. I believe the 2nd row sliding seats cannot be matched by any other vehicle. It provides more leg room than you'll find in most limos....really. If you're getting the Plat, it includes the ipod interface, sonor, 2nd row heated seats and memory seat positions for the driver. Your wallet will thank you for the regular gas of the Sequoia combined with premium performance.
The drivetrain of the Sequoia is in a class of its own. The other 3 vehicles are simply not in the same league. Power, smoothness, manumatic shifting, acceleration, braking and towing make the Sequoia the clear winner if these were the only factors being considered. IMO, the exterior is attractive and smooth without looking like I should be wearing 10 lbs of gold chains around my neck like a Nav or Escalade owner...even with 20 in wheels.
The Nav is gaudy and underpowered and I think it will look very outdated, very quickly which will significantly hurt resale value. It only took one drive for me to know I wouldn't be buying one.
Same issues with the Expy, just a much cheaper looking interior and more subdued exterior. Resale values are awful on this vehicle.
You probably figured out that I bought a Platinum Sequoia. Mine is black exterior with a red rock interior. Here's a link to some pics http://www.carspace.com/hdfatboy/?50@@.5bc0e86d . I still absolutely love the vehicle after 19,000miles. Every drive is still a joy with the 381hp, 6sp tranny, flexible drive configurations with 2wd, 4wd hi (AWD), 4wd Hi with the ctr diff locked, 4wd Lo and 4wd Lo with ctr diff locked. I have had 0 service trips to the dealer other than 3 trips for oils changes and tire rotation (I purchased the Toyota maintenance plan).
Forget the fake plastic wood dash. I originally considered it and now I've come to like the silver dash. Its still a long reach across the dash however 90% of the controls are really used from the steering wheel and a few of the knobs closest to the driver. I added xm radio myself that is fully integrated into the Nav and steering wheel controls for $279 off Ebay...best add-on to any vehicle I've ever owned.
If towing matters, here's a review I did last year after a long towing trip http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/sequoia/143846-08-4x4-plat-sequoia-towing-- - - - evaluation/#post1096369
Here's the things I don't like about the Sequoia and you can decide if they matter to you.
The nanny controls on the Nav unit were intolerable to me and I purchased a controller to override the system so I can use all the features of the blue tooth phone capabilities and nav system while the vehicle is underway. Toyota...PLEASE...reel in your lawyers...they're out of control.
The folding mirrors on the Plat should be automatic when the vehicle goes into or out of park with an override switch.
Dear Toyota...would it have killed you to provide lighting for the exterior mirror controls and the driver's second row window switches so they can be easily found at night.
The Platinum should have offerred HID headlights.
The front passenger seat could have benefited from the ability to slide back another 2-3 inches for long drives. This is the one seat with the least leg room.
As a Platinum, this vehicle should have had push button start with a smartkey.
After 19,000 miles these are the only changes I would have recommended. Maybe others can offer additional features to a wish list for the future. I would buy another one in a minute when this one's time is up.
Wow! Thanks so much for taking the time to respond. It was helpful more than you know. I sat here with my husband reading all the responses over....I do have a few questions if you wouldn't mind...
We are looking at the Limited, mainly because we have 3 kids and it just seems easier to load them into the 2nd row than have one climb into the back. Some of the things that are standard on the platinum have been the problem for us on the limited as far as options we would like to have. We don't understand how a $56K vehicle does not have memory seats or 2nd row heated.
Now you mentioned the Satellite Radio (we like Sirius) which is interesting because it is not listed as a line item on the sticker (meaning no receiver) ...we asked the salesman and he said that it can be hooked up afterward but that you cannot have the IPOD interface at the same time. With how you installed it yourself through what you purchased through Ebay, is it all internal? Meaning do you have the satellite capabilities through the Navigation system? Can you use the Ipod interface with the system you installed? Also the Navigation system seems difficult because the lady talking is looking for certain commands...can you use the pushbutton version and not use the voice part? Can you do some kind of bypass and watch the DVD from the navigation screen (I believe certain techs now how to do this but because of liability issues they will not tell you) In general in comparison, it seems like the backup system and navigation system seem inferior, I am just not sure that while it is in use it becomes better than it seems. Also, was anything said to you about updating the navigation system? Is it a hard drive that is updated or a disc? If a better system comes available, is it as easy as a download?
I also wanted to ask if you had the remote start? Is it worth it to add it as an aftermarket option? I also wish they had the push button start....
I have to ask about the future for SUV value and replacement parts cost in the long run when everything is so oversized. We have looked at a few crossovers and really want to like them but it has less space and I haven't seen a full sized 2nd row middle seat yet. Tomorrow I am going to test drive the Buick Arcadia. We seem to be getting frustrated and sometimes consider keeping our minivan for another year or 2 but wanted to see if good deals are to be had in the SuV market. Value will be upsize down fom day 1 especially in the SUV side.
thanks so much, we really do appreciate the help in making this decision.
I think you'll have more peace in the truck if one of the kids is in the way back. And chances are, one of them will prefer to sit back there out of reach of their siblings anyways.
Starting Your Car Research When You're Not Sure What You Want
too bad there is no rebates for Toyota.....
"We are looking at the Limited, mainly because we have 3 kids and it just seems easier to load them into the 2nd row than have one climb into the back." I agree with the other poster. Depending on the age of the kids, as they age they will want more separation. My 14 yr old actually prefers to ride in the 3rd row even when no one is in the second row. He folds the 2nd row seat down and has leg room to really stretch out. Access to the third row is quite convenient since the 2nd row Captain chair slides far forward giving easy access to the third row even for adults. I hesitated on the captains chairs howver I have found them to work out very nicely. All of my previous Suburbans had 2nd row benchs.
"Some of the things that are standard on the platinum have been the problem for us on the limited as far as options we would like to have. We don't understand how a $56K vehicle does not have memory seats or 2nd row heated."
That was one of our motivations for going for the Platinum. I wanted the air conditioned front seats, driver memory seat, heated 2nd row seats, adjustable suspension and the Red Rock leather interior. These were all "must haves", so my only choice was the Platinum.
"With how you installed it yourself through what you purchased through Ebay, is it all internal? Meaning do you have the satellite capabilities through the Navigation system?" Yes, all components for the XM Radio (Serius and XM are now one service since the 2 companies merged last year) are inside the dash (other than the antenna which is on the roof) which requires opening things up abit however its much easier than you might expect since the entire dash is held together with push clips. Essentially, with the exceptiuon of a single screw, the dash can be opened by simply "pulling" it open. The instructions are actually quite easy. Here's a link to get a sense of what's involved. (You might want to preview the install before your husband...you'll understand after reviewing it:) http://www.tacotunes.com/installation/tundradash/index.html The XM service is fully functional through the Nav unit from either the dash controls or the sterring wheel controls.
"Can you use the Ipod interface with the system you installed?"
Since the ipod connection in the Platinum is unaltered I can't see how it would be affected however I don't use an ipod.
"Also the Navigation system seems difficult because the lady talking is looking for certain commands...can you use the pushbutton version and not use the voice part?" Other than the first day, I've never used the voice controls... more of a hastle than its worth. I use the Nav buttons on the dash however many of the functions are deactivated by Toyota once you are underway. I used the following product to override Toyota's restirctions. If you're opening the dash for the XM tuner, this device would be a simple install at the same time. http://www.pinemountainfirearms.com/pmf/tundramods/NavSpeedPulse.aspx
"Can you do some kind of bypass and watch the DVD from the navigation screen (I believe certain techs now how to do this but because of liability issues they will not tell you)" DVDs can be viewed on the front Nav screen however only when in Park with the Parking Brake on. I've not seen any modifications that works with the factory rear entertainment system and the Factory Nav unit to view videos while underway. (Probably not a very good idea if you ask me.)
"it seems like the backup system and navigation system seem inferior, I am just not sure that while it is in use it becomes better than it seems." The backup video system is excellent, particularly for towing to align with the tow ball. Also the adjustable suspension allows you to raise and lower the vehicle to make it easy to attach to a trailer tow ball. The Nav by compariosn with my Garmin Zumo is utterly out of date however with the override device referenced above it is acceptable.
"Also, was anything said to you about updating the navigation system? Is it a hard drive that is updated or a disc? If a better system comes available, is it as easy as a download?" If you mean the electronics, I have not heard if a new generation of Nav unit is coming however this Gen is relatively new so I doubt a major upgrade is coming anytime soon. If you mean the actual DVD data disc for the maps, those come out annually however the changes are somewhat minor from year to year and you may only need to update every couple of years. They run a couple hundred $ from the dealer and are also available on ebay for less.
"I also wanted to ask if you had the remote start? Is it worth it to add it as an aftermarket option? I also wish they had the push button start...."Forget about the Toyota remote start. Once again the lawyers got overly involved and require the driver to restart the vehicle by shutting the engine as soon as the door is opened. What's the point? Go aftermarket for this option. I didn't bother to get remote start however I have had them on previous vehicles and they are nice.
"I also wanted to ask if you had the remote start? Is it worth it to add it as an aftermarket option? I also wish they had the push button start...." Plan on fast depreciation even for a quality SUV like the Sequoia. However there will always be folks that need a powerful SUV for towing boats, horse trailers, RVs etc. IMO the Sequoia is the best on the market and the Platinum is better then even the higher end luxury SUVs if power, ride, space and comfort are your primary decision factors.
Best of luck in the decision-making....
FYI...here's a link to a test drive forum between the Platinum and the Limited http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/sequoia/137515-test-drive-2008-platinum-vs- -limited/
Thanks again for your response...I have to say how helpful it has been. I agree that the Platinum is the way to go as far as getting in all of the options we are looking for but we just can't wrap our head around the one child sitting in the back. Here are the reasons....we have a 6, 8 and 10 year old, I know they will get bigger but I just can't invision being in a parking lot with all of their backpacks and gear in hand while 1 of my kids takes one of the seats flips it forward while the other 2 wait, then the 2nd child will flip it back and then both would climb in....or I could do it but by now, I am comfy in the drivers seat of my mini van already. I know I am over dramatizing the whole thing but right now they all just file in the 2nd row. Ir could just be that I am not able to invision the Platinum and whether or not one of them could just squeeze by the seat without flipping it, it just seems like an extra step to what we have now. Also long trips, we would loose cargo space with all the luggage because we do not have the ability to flip the whole 3rd row down.
The other problem is where to find a Platnum and since there are so few, I am sure the dealer will not as willing to deal.
Thanks so much for your help!! Oh, and the ability to watch the DVD while driving is just for long trips for the benefit of the passenger.....me! We still want to check out the Buick.....I will keep checking in. Thanks so much for all the valuable info.
Oh, and I want to make sure I understand your previous post....that the front seats come air condititioned as well? (I couldn't find that in the specs).
Thanks!
Obviously you know the needs of the family best. For ours, the design of the captain chair and how it slides forward works as conveniently for kids as it does adults. At 6'4 I have no problem comfrortably getting in the 3rd row and the seating is by far the best on avy SUV on the market. Nothing is even close for leg room because of the electrically recling 3rd row seats.
My recommendation is to find an LTD with captain's charis and check out whether the 2nd row sliding mechanism meets your needs. The Captain chairs function the same in the LTD and the Plat however there is no console in the Ltd. The Plat's 2nd row console cannot be removed because the controls for the 2nd row heated seats are built into the front of the console.
I ordered my Platinum from the dealer vs shopping for vehicles on the lot. I wasn't in a hurry so I send out emails to the nearest 15 Toyota dealers I was willing to drive to. I gave them the exact specs I was looking for and let them know I was only interested in replies that included an "out the door" price with exact options, shipping, taxes and title included in the email response.
5 dealers didn't reply...several gave prices at msrp. ..several were at $1000 off msrp....several were at $1000-2000 over the dealer's invoice and one was at $500 over dealer invoice. I went with the $500 over and it was the smoothest auto transaction I ever did. Never left the house while shopping for the sequoia until I went to sign the contract.
I bought my Platinum the week before Christmas of 2007 and took delivery in late February 08. Economy and auto market are entirely different today but that's how I bought mine back then. I'm confident the same approach today would work even better with far better pricing although I have no idea how long the wait would be on a factory order but the savings would definitely be worth it if you have the time.
Yes...the front seats in the Platinum are both heated and air conditioned. Since I got a black Sequoia with red rock interior, I figured the seats would get hot in the summer. The cooled seats are excellent and I'm really glad they came with the Platinum.
We did what you suggested and found a platinum....we went to the dealer in our town that we have been working with (we have purchased 3 of our last 4 cars from them) and told them that we were interested in the platinum. The looked on the computer and found us a dealership that had 4 of them in Maryland (we live in PA)....so that is what we did today. My husband drove it and we even had our 10 year old try and slide the seat forward. It really was a breeze. Just the extra step of folding it forward and then the next child getting in would have to slide it back to sit in it. (still trying to wrap my head around that as you can see). The one we looked at had the factory installed burl wood trim. It actually looked nice with the tan interior. It had everything in it except the laser cruise control which the dealership said is very rare to see that in a Sequoia. It had the remote start (which seems like a joke-wish there was an override for that one), skid grid and satellite radio. It had an MSRP of $60,000. We really did like it, the only issue is of course haggling over the price now.....(and for me getting used to the idea of the captains chair issue). The one we test drove had $7,000 miles on it and was a demo vehicle...my husband mentioned to someone inside the dealership how much they were willing to move on it and the sales manager said that it would be the listed MSPR of $60,000 :confuse: .... Our goal at this point with a 2008 is 75% of MSRP for a 2008 in this market. I just wanted to let you know that we took your advice and are glad we did....I will keep you posted...Our dealership told us that they can give us a deal even if we located one we want at a different dealership. We would rather work with our local dealership since we have a good relationship with them from previous cars we purchased.
Thanks!!
I think you guys will get your price provided you continue to be patient and hold your ground. I just purchased an 08 Ltd after looking and watching the market for 3 months. I buy things for a living and I can tell you that I research items to death before I make a purchase. I knew from the start I would end up in the Sequoia because I owned a 04 Ltd and had put 90K miles on it. The only reason I was considering the upgrade was because the deals were so good. I would recommend doing a little more searching using www.cars.com and see if you can find any other Plats within a reasonable driving distance for you. My dealer wasn
t willing to work with me and thought that because I lived in Central Missouri that I would be restricted to buying from them because of the limited selections......they were wrong. I did as one of the previous posts mentioned and put my quotes out there using the internet before I stepped one foot into a dealership. You'll find out very quickly there are deals to be had. I had difficulties getting the options I wanted because my wife and I wanted a limited in the Cassis Pearl w/sand beige interior...with Nav, DVD, XM, and second row bench. We wanted the second row bench so that when all the seats were folded down it would create a nice area to carry our three boxers. We don't have kids, but our dogs fill this gap nicely for us. Problem we encountered was that the second row bench was not in the option package with the Nav and DVD, so we ended up settling for the captains chairs and I worked out a great deal with the dealer to install the center console in the second row.
Let me urge you to be careful about adding options with the dealer. Make sure you ask for Toyota Factory equipment to ensure it will interface correctly and be covered under warranty. I say this because I had a dealer tell me they could install the Nav and DVD on a ltd that had the second row bench. I agreed and then found out the day of the install that the equipment was all aftermarket and would not work with the steering wheel controls, such as bluetooth for my phone. It also would not be covered under the Toyota warranty so if you bought the vehicle from one dealer and then went back home and tried to get service from your local dealer to resolve anything on the after market equipment he would not be able to do so and would have to bring in people trained to work on it...resulting in charges back to you.
I'll quit rambling on now and just say this.....my wife and I both love the truck. It rides exceptionally well and I have already towed some heavy loads with it with ease. The backup camera is great and ensures a quick trailer hookup every time. The sonar works great and allows for a lot of clearance when parking.
The heated seats don't seem to get as warm as in my older Sequoia, but work sufficiently.
I haven't tried the DVD yet, but I'm sure the puppies will love watching it on the next long trip. For you guys it will be great because it offers the AC plug so you can plug in a console game system and turn the kids loose playing Wii, XBOX, or PS3.......system also comes with 2 wireless headsets, so you don't have to listen.
One thing to note on the Sequoia that no other SUV has....the power rear glass. My dogs love this because I can roll it down and they can stick their heads out and stop traffic....don't suggest this for the kids.
I have the rear height adjusting suspension which levels the vehicle out when loaded....works great.
16+ cup holders....nuff said there.
It has a tight turning radius of 39ft allowing it to turn on a dime and making it a breeze to park.
It does seem more suited for people with long legs, short torso's, and long arms!!
Makes you wonder who was smoking what illegal products when they set up the interior.
There are a lot more things that I can't even remember to mention right now.
Good luck with your purchase and don't let your dealer push you into paying for delivery of a vehicle if they have to go get it......remember this - all dealers will tell you they aren't making anything on it, but they are lying.
Squeeze them as much as you can then walk out if they don't meet your price. There are a lot of Sequoias on the market right now and they have to get them moved out by March for the 2009 models to hit.
Sorry for rambling!
Mike
Not knowing where you guys are located it could change somewhat, but I remember you said you were in PA.
Saw you mention "The nanny controls on the Nav unit were intolerable to me and I purchased a controller to override the system so I can use all the features of the blue tooth phone capabilities and nav system while the vehicle is underway. Toyota...PLEASE...reel in your lawyers...they're out of control."
Where did you purchase the controller to override the system? and can you post a link for me? I would like to do the same.
Thanks,
Mike
I agree about the aftermarket issue. If we go with the Ltd. We will have to have the factory install, Satellite Radio (or go with the underdash one that Hatboy mentioned) the wood dash and possibly the remote start (unless we find an aftermarket that we can do ourselves where the engine does'nt shut off when you get in and start the car. The platinum aftermarket wouldbe the wood burl and an aftermarket ipod interface which we would do ourselves (we heard from one salesman that you could use a splitter with the navigation system and it may work.
Thank so much for the help...don't worry about rambling on, I read every word!
We are going to church now, we are going to have all 3 kids climb into the 2nd row bench seatof our 2000 minivan , and not have one of them go into the back......Can you see I am still struggling with the captains chairs?
Thank you!
Oh and ps.....do you know how that works that if we find one on our own at another dealer and then take the internet price to our local dealer (we reall like them) I assume they choose to match it or not and if they don't, we would be it from the other dealer? What are dealer told us yesterday is that they have a network of dealers that they will swap cars from and that he can make the same deal with another dealers car just like one sitting in their lot? Is that true?
One question (we forgot to look at this when we were looking at the platinum yesterday) but does the center console flip down flat at all? We were just wondering if we had the option of putting all 3 kids in the 3rd row and flipped down the 2 captains chairs if they fold flat into the floor along with the console? Thanks!
Question: "Shouldn't we go to the local dealer we are working with first to see if he will willing to give it to us for the 25% off MSRP before we get other offers from internet dealers?"
Answer: I would try to get your local dealer to work with you if they can get you in the price and vehicle your looking for, but don't feel obligated....remember it's your hard earned money and don't feel guilty about paying less from another dealer if that's what happens. With the internet leveling the playing field they should all be able to give you the same price for the vehicle.
Question: "Now when you went on Cars.com, did you then have to put in the radius of how many miles you want to be searched, then it comes up with the individual dealer and then you look at their inventory? or is there an easier way?"
Answer: I first put in my zip code and then a radius search....I was willing to drive 500 or more miles to save a few thousand dollars. I did find the best deals in the country up your way...especially in DC/Maryland and had actually put a deal together with DARCARS, but had a dealer in KY match pricing at the last second and saved me the extra drive. It will not give you dealer listing, but will allow you to sort the findings by those closest to your zip and by price. Once you click the search button it will give you two options...one is to look at invoice pricing and the other is local inventory. I choose local inventory and then once it opened the page I clicked at the top on "Modify Search" right under the CARS.COM logo. It will open a drop down menu and if you look over to the top right of your page you will see a link called "More Search Options" select this and then you can put in Keywords like Limited, Platinum, Cassis Pearl, etc.... This will narrow things down for you and then once you the vehicle your looking for there will be a link on the page to "view dealer inventory", so you can see all they have. Dealers with only one or two Sequoias will be less willing to deal than those who have 10 or more.
I wanted to comment on your post about the Satellite radio and iPod adapter. The factory installed XM/Sirus, will be hidden under the dash.....there is no factory XM/Sirus that is mounted where you can see the box......don't be fooled by this. It must be integrated behind the dash hidden from all view. As for the iPod adapter...you don't need it. The Sequoia comes with a "AUX" plug on the dash and you can simply plug in a 2.5mm jack into it and play your iPod through the AUX button on your stereo.....the 2.5mm cable will only cost you $10 max from walmart or someplace like that. Basically it's the headphone plug at both ends of the cable.....also called a Male-Male plug. The cost of the iPod interface is a rip off. One thing to note, If you plug your iPod up to the cigarette lighter for power it will put off a humming sound in the stereo.....as long as you operate your iPod/iPhone on it's own battery the sound will be flawless. I have used both my iPod and iPhone for music and it is perfect this way. You simply have to use the iPod itself to change the songs etc.......also set the volume of your iPod to about 50-75% of full, then adjust the volume on your stereo accordingly.
I have had remote starts in the past and you will be fine to find an aftermarket one as long as it will work with your existing key fob.
Dealers do have certain dealerships they trade with from time to time and in those cases they will do the swap with no extra costs. My dealer did this for me in KY because of the bench seat issue I mentioned earlier. Make sure they don't charge you to do the change....if they do it, they are simply trying to take you for more money. I would recommend finding a vehicle first and then ask the dealer if they will match pricing......get it in writing before you tell them where the vehicle is located.
Good luck!
Mike
Here's a thread outlining how I and others installed the override controller http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/tundra/110944-diy-all-nav-functions-all-ti- me-9/
Here's the site where the controller can be bought (and instructions on how to make it if you're electrically inclined.) http://www.pinemountainfirearms.com/pmf/tundramods/NavSpeedPulse.aspx
I'm very satisfied with this install. I installed a small switch in the cubby below the climate controls. The switch is completely out of sight yet easy to switch on when needed. 99% of the time the switch is in the off position. When I need to get a phone # from the phone book or use any of the features of the Nav unit while underway, I flip the switch on and everything works as it would if I were stopped (and if Toyota's attorbeys were alittle less anal about controlling everyone's life to the lowest common denominator).
I'm really glad I installed the switch because if I hadn't I would have ripped the Nav unit out by now and thrown it on Ebay. Saved alot of money with a $50 device from Wilee.
Good luck...its worth the effort.
Buzzy, please be careful. This dealer sounds like he's trying to load a vehicle up and then find an unsuspecting buyer that doesn't know better and have them pay for the add on's whether they wanted them or not.
There are lots of Platinums out there and there will be alot more as Spring rolls around. If you really have to buy now, please don't let the dealer know that.
Here's a posting from another forum where I posted the exact steps and the actual email addresses for dealers (east of the Mississippi) so that you can let other dealers know of your interest without having to drive around. http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/sequoia/119932-how-get-great-deal-08-plati- num/ If you follow these steps, I'm very confident you'll have exactly what you want at the absolute best price beforte next weekend.
Lastly, here's a Platinum spec sheet with the dealer's cost for a Platinum. You should absolutely pay nothing more than dealer's cost and probably at least $1000 less than cost in today's market before incentives are applied.
http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/members/heatwave3/albums/08+platinum+sequo- ia+black-red+rock+combo-60/07-sequoia-platinum-invoice-1-259/
http://www.tundrasolutions.com/forums/members/heatwave3/albums/08+platinum+sequo- ia+black-red+rock+combo-60/07-sequoia-platinum-invoice-2-258/
For that dealer's platinum with 7000 miles on it, my guess is you shouldn't be paying over $40,000 for this used vehicle. Edmunds has dealer retail for a used Plat with 7K miles at around $43K retail, $40K direct sale. I wouldn't spend over $41k for that used Plat. if it helps.
Good luck and let us know how things turn out.
Buzzy,
The center console in the 2nd row has a lever on the back of the console that allows you to flip it forward so that it lies flat with the 2 captains chairs when they are folded down. With the 3rd row seats folded you will have a flat surface from the back of the front seats to the rear hatch.
Regarding the dealership, I've bought a significant number of vehicles from all types of dealers over 30 years. To be honest, none of them should be trusted. They really only have one single goal in mind and that is to size up the customer and exact the highest potential price from that customer regardless of the cost of the vehicle.
That's not a good or bad thing, its just the way it is. Therefore my recommendation is to let as many dealers as possible know the exact vehicle with options that you are interested in and have them send you their best price in writing by email. Those that refuse should be ingnored.
If you then want to take the best price to your local dealer to see if they'll match it, then by all means test them out. In the end, you need to look out for your family and their finances, not the financial well-being of a particular auto dealership. Sounds harsh however there will likely be over 1000 auto dealerships that close shop this year and you need to be more focused on your own bank account than theirs. There's likely to be alot of shenanigans by dealers in the coming months as many of them reach their final financial gasps. Don't get caught up in one of their last ditch efforts to take advantage of buyers.
My apologies in advance to any and all auto dealership employees that are offended however I say it like I see it and and unfortunately the seeds of demise of many dealerships were sown decades ago.
Does this void the warranty on the vehicle in any way?
I paid for the extended warranty and would hate to screw it all up.
I have an extended warranty from Toyota and was not concerned. Or at least my concern was overidden by my need to use the Nav unit while underway.
I wish we played with that center console in the Platinum but when you fold it flat does it require that the chairs be folded at the same time ?(you mentioned that it folds flat with the captains chairs but does fold independently)
We also failed to look at the Platinums cargo space the is left when the 2/3 part is folded down. We are going to go to our local dealer to look at that on the Limited as I am sure it is the same. We have a ton of luggage when we go on trips which is another issue to work through on the Platinum.
I am so glad you explained the aftermarket Satellite so we know that getting that as a line item and finding one that has it is not important as it can be added later.
Oh, and do you have laser cruise control? If not do you miss and if you do would you miss it if it wasn't there?
thanks!
I did find what you mentioned on Cars.com...wow! I really makes it much easier to see what is out there....bettter than how I was looking. It seems from what our local dealer is saying is that they have other Toyota dealerships they work with and trade...not sure how they do that on their end? We were just always under the understanding that dealers are able to make a better deal with what is sitting on their lot.
Appreciate the info on the IPOD. I know not to look for this option or the satellite or remote start and to install it aftermarket. Such helpful info.....just have to settle on the Limited or Platinum....
Yes, the 2nd row center console in the Plat can be folded flat independent of folding the Captain's chairs down. In fact, on long trips if we stop for a snack or lunch to go, the center console is folded flat and used as a table top. Its actually designed with shallow compartments to keep meals/snacks on the surface from sliding off during braking or turns. Additionally, the cupholder divider is removable from the front of the center console so that it can be placed on top of the center console after its been flipped into a table...rather nice design.
"We also failed to look at the Platinums cargo space the is left when the 2/3 part is folded down. We are going to go to our local dealer to look at that on the Limited as I am sure it is the same. We have a ton of luggage when we go on trips which is another issue to work through on the Platinum."
We had a similar concern coming from a Suburban where there was alot more space behind the 3rd row seat. We've taken our daughter back to college many times and typically fold either the 1/3 or the 2/3 side of the 3rd row seat down to hold more stuff on the return to school while still letting my son sit in the 3rd row section that remains up. Its worked well for us.
"I am so glad you explained the aftermarket Satellite so we know that getting that as a line item and finding one that has it is not important as it can be added later."
Glad to help. No sense in giving the dealer $800 when you can install an XM tuner for under $300. If the dealer offers to install the tuner for $400, its probably worth it not to have to install it yourself.
"Oh, and do you have laser cruise control? If not do you miss and if you do would you miss it if it wasn't there?"
Interesting...this was the only option I didn't get and it was by design although I could easily see the benefit of laser cruise. I didn't get it because I tow a boat alot in the summer. I had heard from others that they were concerned that while towing in traffic you could find yourself exiting traffic to a ramp and then the laser thinking the road was clear and unexpectedly increase speed to the pre-set. Not a good situation while towing and I elected not to get this option. That being said there have been many times on long trips that I wished I had the laser cruise to avoid the braking and cruise re-setting steps.
Hope that helps.
if you don't like it, maybe you lose 10k swapping it.
on any new one you will lose 20k.
plus with the kids beating it up, you won't be as bothered about it.
i recommend having one of the kids in the 3rd row.
keeps the peace.
if you need more room for vacation. buy a hitch mount or rooftop cargo box.
hdfatboy,
The line item (MSPR) cost on the XM radio in the window was $449.00 for the one we saw that had it in it. So I would think that having them add it on for $449 if it didn't have it in it would be okay for the labor and time it would take us to do it. Is it the same system if they do it or the one you did aftermarket? If it the same, I would probably think having them do it is okay.
My husband and I talked about it all again last night.....he is leaning toward either waiting for something that comes out with everything we want (Platinum with bench seats) but if he would have to buy right now he agrees with most here that the Platinum is workable with the kids. (not preferable but workable). His concern is that he does not want to spend the money on an SUV and not have enough cargo space with the one child in the 3rd row that when we go on vacation we have to put a cargo bin on our roof. Then we might as well keep our minivan where we do not need to do that now. He also is not crazy about the idea of having a lot of aftermarket work for him to do.....he is an electrician so it is easy for him, he really just doesn't like the idea of a lot of fooling around in the dash. (it would be for the remote start, navigation bypass and the satellite radio maybe)
I am still leaning toward the bench seats and giving up the platinum goodies for the sake of being easier with the in and out with the kids and not loosing the back cargo. If one of the kids wants to get away from the others by sitting in the 3rd row they still can. I called a few of my friends yesterday who have 3 kids and there opinion in mainly the bench seat unless the captains chairs have a walkthough in between the two captains chairs but since the center console is there, that is not possible. We are going to go to our local dealer and look at the cargo space that is left with one of the seats in use......and I can't help being nervous with one of the kids being back there for safety reasons on a long trip. There are not any government studies on the safety of that 3rd row for what I am reading.....Sorry for rambling outloud....thanks for listening and all the valuable input.
Buzzy, if the xm tuner is already in a vehicle on the lot at the $449 MSRP its probably worth it. However if you find the vehicle you want and decide to add the xm tuner at a later time, I thought it was worth letting you know that most dealers charge $600-800 to add XM later. I didn't add xm when I purchased the vehicle because XM and Sirius were going through a corporate merger and I didn't know what changes might happen to the tuners. In the end, it was easy enough to add however for $449 its worth having the dealer handle it.
Regarding the seating in the Platinum versus the Ltd, ultimately only you and your family can make the decision that best meets your needs. All depends on you priorities and budget. For my family, the heated second row seats, a/c front seats, TEMS adjustable suspension, 2 position memory driver seat and the Red Rock leather interior easily outweighed the loss of the 2nd row bench seat. Since you can only get these options in the Platinum, then its a relatively easy decision to make. If the options above are less important than the 2nd row bench, then its best to save the money and get a fully loaded LTD which will include every option that's in the Plat other than those noted (plus laser cruise is not available in the LTD if that option was of interest).
Hopefully that helps in your decision-making.
Everything you have answered has helped us with our decision making.....wouldn't have gotton this far without you!!
another question that came to mind...I see that rear height control suspension is listed as a option that can be added...is that the same as TEMS? and I know you mentioned that the laser cruise is not available on the LTD but also notice it is listed as a option.. do you know if it is uninstallable in the LTD even though it is listed as an option?Thanks as always
Another thing I have mentioned previously was that I went with the captains chairs and purchased the center console for second row........since this is an after thought the truck did not come from factory ready for console to be installed......this is what I have run into on it (be wary if you decide to go this route)
First....there are no mounting bosses under the carpet to screw the console into, so it will have to be drilled custom.
Second....the captains seats in LTD have arm rests where the console is located meaning that you either leave the console out or have the console installed and you remove the armrests to accommodate the fit.
I'm going to have the armrests removed and see how it looks. I will have to make sure there is a plug to cover the hole from the armrest bolt and will post some pics after I get it done.
I just didn't figure on this amount of extra work after the fact and I'm getting frustrated.
The rear suspension height control and TEMS adjustable suspension are 2 separate things. The rear height control is optional on the LTD and standard on the platinum. This feature can raise the rear of the vehicle upto 3/4 inch from normal or lower it down 3/4in from normal. However the vehicle will automatically return to normal height as soon as the vehicle exceeds 18mph. I see this feature as having limited use unless you are towing a trailer.
If you tow, then you can align the tow ball of the Sequoia to a trailer by observing it in the rear view camera on the Nav unit. As you approach the trailer hitch, you can lower the rear of the vehicle and align the ball with the trailer receiver and then raise the rear of the vehicle to raise the trailer ball into the trailer receiver. Quite trick and if you have done alot of trailer in the past, you'll really understand how great a feature this is. Once you drive away, the vehicle will automatically put the ride height back to normal. I'm not sure of other circumstances when the manual ride height adjustment would be helpful.
TEMS adjustable suspension is an entirely different feature and is exclusive to the Platinum and cannot be added to the LTD. This suspension uses entirely different shocks and electronic sensors to adjust the comfort of the suspension. I wasn't sure at first if a 6000lb suv would really benefit from this feature however I'm really glad I have it.
Essentially this feature provides for the suspension to have 3 Setting. "Comfort" "Normal" & " Sport". I find I much prefer the firmer suspension of Sport for local roads where there are more curves and I prefer the comfort of Normal for long highway trips. I find that the Comfort setting is to "soft" of a ride for my taste.
I've read where othere's that have tried to compare the non-TEMS to the TEMS suspension found the LTD/SR5 to have the factory suspension set somewhere between Comfort and Normal. Based on that, I am particularly glad I have the TEMS since the majority of my driving is in Sport mode.
First....there are no mounting bosses under the carpet to screw the console into, so it will have to be drilled custom."
Are you trying to add an aftermarket console to the second row of your LTD or the console from the Platinum?
I've not heard of anyone that was able to install the Platinum 2nd row console into the LTD. In addition to the missing brackets, have you decided what you're going to do with the 2 holes you're going to have in the front of the console? These holes represent where the switches are installed in the console from the factory to adjust the heat for the Platinum 2nd row Captain Chairs.
My guess is that these "switch holes" are cut at the factory, since the switches are wired with the seats at the factory. Since there are no heated 2nd row seats in the LTD, I'm unsure how the switch holes in the console will be handled...maybe dummy switches or some type of plug/cover for the hole?
Anyway, I traded in my 1999 4runner with 152K miles on it. I loved it but we wanted something bigger so we went with Sequoia. Focusing on the 2nd row seating options. Basically there are 3 ways to go.
1. bench seat
2. captain with console
3. captain with no console
I have (2.) with the Platinum. We wanted the Platinum for all its many features but I was really not sure about the seating option. We have 2 boys 4 and 7. In the 4 runner, I would pick them up from school and they would throw there backpacks in the middle seat in between. Now with the monstrous console, we can't really do that. There is plenty of room in the back to throw stuff but I was used to doing it the other way. So that is one negative. Nextly, we have a big dog that goes everywhere with me. Including work every day. She is 120 lb St. Bernard. One issue I did not foresee (my bad) is that the console is not high enough to provide a good dog barrier. She pretty much would climb onto my lap in the front if she had easy access. Since the console sits low she kind of tries to lay across it. A few times when I hit the brakes she has slid all the way to the back of the front seats. She is 10 so she isn't very agile. I had to pull over and fix her. So I am going to have to figure out some sort of sturdy blockade system that looks decent.
Furthermore, on plenty of occasions with the 4runner, I pulled out the kid's car seats and folded down the second row to move or haul a bunch of stuff. Now, if I need the room and I fold down the 2nd row seats, that monstrous console will always be in the way. At least Toyota designed it to fold over and be flush with the 2nd row seats folded down. That was a key move. I would really be bumming without that. But I still feel I need something to cover the console depending on what I am hauling.
I love the front heated seats. My first ever. I didn't think I would really care but they are awesome. And really hot. Once my [non-permissible content removed] is toasty, I have to turn it down ( I know, TMI !) The second row captains has heated seats. Since I currently have car seats in both, they will do the squirts no good. However, they will be out of those before long and I plan to own this for a good decade.
So some pluses. I got the rear seat DVD entertainment system. It is nice having a spacious center console to store DVD, and other stuff. I haven;t made full use of it yet but I am sure that will come.
Although it is different than what I was used to with the 4runner, I am not regretting my decision. No one way is perfect. You have to decide for yourself. And don't look back once you do. I know, that's easy to say.
The laser cruise control is great. In the 4runner, I used cruise control a lot. I even got pretty good at using the cruise control controls to accelerate and slow down without using my breaks or accelerator. But it was still annoying. Now the laser does all that on its own. And it works very well even around slight curves. It must be able to detect that I am turning slightly and adjust its signal path to account for that. Great! And it has 3 levels of distance control. Default is very conservative where your vehicle will slow itself down when it approaches another wayyyy ahead. At first I thought I would never use it and I was pissed. But then I found you can adjust it to mediumand short distance. Since I live in MA and I am used to getting 2 inches from someones bumper, I need that close setting. Seriously, it is still a good reasonable distance away.
One last thing. Here is a link to my post earlier on what I paid for this baby. I think I got a good deal. In this market, never pay more than invoice.
http://townhall-talk.edmunds.com/direct/view/.eec894a/1474
Wow, I rambled. Sorry about that if you made it this far.
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In 2007 I paid 32 drive out on a msrp of 41K. So before taxes 29 something.
Go for an 08 or even better an 09. 09's have a better updated transmission, different series. With the economy how it is you can practically offer them 15K off the truck and they will most likely take it.
I probably would have bought a Sequoia but when I got the Expedition last Nov 07 they told me it would be spring before the Sequoia came out. Then they showed up in December just after I made my decision.
I'm glad though I didn't buy a Sequoia since you can now get $10,000 off. I would owe more in a year than what I could have bought a new one now for.
One feature I really like with the Expedition is the fold flat rear seats. That may not mean as much if you always have the third row up.
Calculating depreciation is tricky. Many people cite the used price as compared to the MSRP. Until recently when they have started steep discounts for the Sequoia, the Sequoia actually lost as much in value as the Expedition. In addition to that you had more money tied up.
I don't like the FE in either. Opinions vary but I actually prefer the interior of the Expedition a lot more then the Sequoia. As for exteriors, my wife loved her Sequoia's but she does not like the new look.
I will say though either has enormous room. If I had it to do over I would have gotten the extended version of the Expedition. When taking the whole family the extra foot on the back would hold a lot more stuff with the third seat up.
I do not like the handling of the Expedition. I have not driven the new Sequoia but my older ones reminded me more of my 4Runner as far as handling. The ford is a soft ride that is comfortable but it wallows around curves. I don't feel comfortable driving briskly on curvy roads. I didn't find that an issue on the Sequoia.
I can see that money is probably no problem for you since you're looking at the Platinum. I leased my Expedition for two years hoping that by 2010 there would be a diesel or hybrid option for something in this size. I'd love something like this at 19-20mpg, but 14 mpg sucks. If I don't purchase my Expedition off lease (pretty cheap) I don't know that I would ever buy a new large SUV again. They all depreciate way too much and even if you can afford it, it is a waste of money that could be used for some better use (perhaps a Prius to drive when you don't need the room).
However if I could get a Sequoia for $10,000 off AND 0 percent that would make me think hard.
You're thinking right. The value when you drive it off will be no more than Private party value in kbb.com Even that is more than they will give you on trade. I'm assuming that is this is only $7000 less than msrp that it is striped. That does not sound like a good deal.
I ended up leasing, not sure if I wanted to own long term and then have to figure out how to dump it if gas stayed up. My first lease and I was surprised. Since the money factor on the lease was almost at 0 percent, I leased for two years and the residual, or the price I can buy it for is cheaper than what I would have owed on the SUV had I bought it up front. I ended up leasing and now I can walk away if it is not what I want or I can buy it. Cheap.
It was a $47,000 msrp. I got the Xplan pricing and rebates and had a capital (buy) price of about $38,000. (They got even cheaper later). My purchase price in 2 years is $23,000.
I think that is a great price if I'm still in the mood to own it, but I have the option to walk away.
I have been looking on ebay and other sites at the 07 prices which should be what my 08 will be worth in another year (probably). The 07's can be had for under $20K
The biggest problem I see buying used is dealing with a dealer. It seems that if a vehicle has a trade value of $15K (which is all they will pay for a trade) then the private party value is around $18 and then "Retail" will run arounf $21K to $23K. The trick is to purchase a good one from someone you know and trust. If you buy one still on warranty then I see no reason to pay a dealer a premium. Their "certified" used vehicles are preced even higher. Hey, it's still on warranty!
I belive dealers will be focussing on used vehicles more and more to survive the next year so I'm sure they will want to gouge people.
If you want to know though the maximum a dealer has in a vehicle it will be the used "fair" condition kbb trade value. I don't care what papers they show you they just don't pay a premium for nice cars. They don't want to put more in them than what they can go to the auction and get them for but they will go high trade if you're dealing on a new one and they want to sell. If they show you a higher trade, there is a good chance they have made up on it with the discount on the pricing of the new vehicle.
I tried downsizing to a 4Runner when the kids left. However they would ride places with us often and since my son is 6'4" my wife would ride in the back. She has a bum knee so I ignored her complaints. Finally I got tired of hearing her gripe and I said you drive, I'll ride back there. It was aweful. No foot room, the seats were low and my knees were up high.
I also have a 4Runner for a company vehicle. I think it is head and shoulders the best mid size SUV out there. BUT if you have larger teen aged kids the 4Runner should be considerd child cruelity,
You'll love the Sequoia for the family as they grow.
I have found now though that the Highlander (I have the Hybrid) is also pretty spacious and has a great second row seat for 2 people. I'll get 23 to 26 mpg so over the years this will be a whole lot cheaper to operate and meets the needs of a smaller family
FYI, the seats fold flat in the Sequoia both the 2nd and 3rd rows. The 3rd row folds electrically in the Platinum and is an option on the Ltd.