We narrowed to 3 SUV’s now:
1. 2023 Honda Pilot. It seems they really upend the game. From numbers it is even bit bigger than Atlas. Major concern to me with old Pilots (2nd and 3rd gen) was seating position. 2nd gen that my in laws left here was for me the most uncomfortable vehicle to drive, until I rented Ford Explorer. Based on photos it seems Honda improved seats etc. So, will see once it actually comes to dealership.
2. Grand Highlander: I want to see what is it. To me big thing is turbo engine. I live at 6,800ft. Turbo rules here. And I drive often above 10,000ft. Hopefully it has better seats.
3. VW Atlas: mostly I am hesitant as Honda seems better package and Toyota’s turbo packs more punch. Atlas is typical VW design, like they did it with an axe. No nonsense inside, so there is a lot of space. But engine is old in teeth, and while it moves good (better than VR6) compared to Toyota’s turbo it is some 50lb-ft short.
good thing is, local dealer is giving 7yr/100k warranty on them.
And no I am not getting X7.
@UG_Passat asked this. I don’t need oversized ballistic missile that is actually smaller inside than current Highlander.