My 2 cents...

Scott, I have been researching ALL suv's for about a year now. I like to go 4 wheeling so that was certainly a consideration. The suv market is very competitive but some stand out and the SR5 is one of them. My biggest complaint about Toyota was the price. I've read many reviews, asked numerous owners, and my test drive won me over. There was no doubt in my mind I was getting a great suv with all the potential I needed with a few xtra's I wanted. What stuck in my mind and what was a huge plus was reliability and resale. Toyota was at the top of the suv hill from almost every source and the bottom line was this car was really tough to beat. So with all that in mind I went out to find a good deal. With patience, and many resources I proceeded to search for that great deal on a 99 SR5 4x4. It took me 4 months but I finally found my SR5. I was lucky to find all I wanted in the new "highlander" with pretty much everything except leather. The purchase price was $5K below MSRP. That put me at 31K out the door....yes It was more than maybe an explorer, or Rodeo but I feel this car is in a class of it's own (oh yeah that included the 7yr. 100K warranty). My point being there are good deals out there just be patient and do your homework, you'll find it. I've had this puppy for 8K miles and have already used one exceptional feature that has twice bailed me out big time. The "locking rear differential". Once in the middle of nowhere in mud and another time on a boat ramp covered in green slime. Both times my rear tire was spinning (4x4 was no big help) but once I engaged the lock I came out with ease! Awesome feature! Good luck....Marc