Never purchased before; advice sought

[swm023]

Me and four of my business partners are seriously considering buying five 2007 4Runners as our new business vehicles. None of us have every owned a 4Runner before but we think the vehicle combines the "rugged" image of a hardwood flooring business with the "style" and "class" we want to protray to our target market. We've all driven one and everyone one of us has fallen in love.

We are debating between the V6 and V8 . . . any recommendations. I drove the V6 and like it better. Some of my partners like the V8 better. Anything that would need towing could be done with a V6, so that why we're debaing between the two.

We started shopping in CO where a dealership gave us a Limited (sticker was about $43k), 3 yr lease, with 15,000 miles/yr, $1,500 down which includes first months payment, and we have good credit (above 700) for $650/mo. I went to Karl Malone Toyota in Salt Lake City and got them down to $585/mo (sticker was about $42k). Does $585/mo sound fair?

If there is anything else we should consider--pros and cons--please let me know. Its a big purchase since we're buying five and we want to be sure we do it right!

 

[Jeff Kleb]

Those payments sound very high, although you did not say how much money was to be put down or what your credit rating status is. Also, 15k miles per year is not a lot at all for a vehicle used for business purposes.

I leased my '05 SR5 V-6 4x4 for 36 months, with 36,000 miles allowed - but I only pay about $260 a month and had to put down 4 grand. At the end of the term, I can buy it outright for 19k or turn it back into any Toyota dealership. Since it is a second car for me and I typically don't drive it to work, mileage is not an issue. I only have 17k on it, with just over 13 months remaining on the lease.

If you like the 4Runner, I guess the extra cost might be worth it. However, there are probably vehicles more suitable for hauling wood - like a 3/4-ton Ford Econoline van, for instance. You also need to consider the consequences of tax write-offs, depreciation, maintenance and the ability to buy the trucks at the end of the lease term. Additionally, be advised that any damage done (inside or out) will end up costing you big bucks when you turn the vehicle back in and it needs to be "reconditioned" for future sale as a used car.

As for the V6 versus V8 question, I recommend the V6. It has plenty of power and you won't need the V8's extra ponies unless you are pulling an Airstream trailer over the Rockies.
:awais:

Look before you leap!!

 

[sharp4runr]

That lease payment is more than I'm paying to buy my truck

The V6/V8 debate has been debated over and over so you'll find lots of opinions on the board.

Since you'll be buying 5 at one time, see if they'll work out a discount.

 

[007Runner]

Whether you need it or not the V8 is the premium engine. Purchasing that many vehicles, if you pay more then invoice your a fool.

 

[Falls]

I have an 06 Sport V8 4x4.

27,000 miles per year lease @ 1.3% for $540.00 per month and that includes a 100,000 mile gold or platinum warranty. ( cant remember which ).

I dont tow anything overly heavy,and have not even towed with my 06 since I picked it up in Feb of 06 , but I went with the V8 anyway and lovin every minute of it. I have a 6x10 alum. trailer for hauling tractors ect.... but the Suburban has always been available or hooked up to the trailer so I just used it,but wanted the option to be able to do it.

I love this truck and the V8. If I bought another one I would buy a V8 again.

The only thing I like about the V6 is the 2wd selection mode on the 4x4 system. That really is the only advantage as far as I can see . As I bought the full time 4x4 V8 I did not like it because I old school and like the availability to switch between 2wd & 4wd , BUT after having the full time 4wd system and the traction in wet , rain road conditions I fricken love it. If I'm driving in pouring down rain on the Hiway , snow , off road , its always there and gives you a very confident feeling when driving in adverse conditions , I just go like hell in all conditions.

I have also put bigger tires on and slightly more agressive than the stock ones. Also make sure you get the Xreas suspension option , awesome handling and stability. It comes std. on sport and optional ( i think ) on the limited.

As far as gas milage between the V6/V8 I would'nt even worry about that and don't let that be a deciding factor....it's insignificant.

But you have to get what works for you and your partners.

Just my .02