Family-sized alternative?

I currently have an 04 Xtra Cab, and the time has come to start thinking about a more family friendly replacement. Wondering if there's a general consensus on something with a similar feel that has some more modern safety features and enough space for kids, in laws and dog.

So for those or you that have moved on (or have a second vehicle), what did you get that has the same "feel" of our first gens? IMO, 200 series LC (or LX) is a contender, but what am I forgetting?

 

4runner should be the closest in feel

 

I'll be honest, I hate the look of the modern 4runner...

Not sure what it is, but proportions just seem off to me.

 

get a 98-00 then

 

Would love to, but I don't think it's up to snuff safety wise for what I need right now.

 

Take your pick. Or buy a Forester.

https://ussuvsnation.com/best-truck-based-body-on-frame-suvs/

 

Lol, wife already has an Outback, so I definitely won't end up with a Forester.

 

What additional safety features do you need?
Almost all modern cars/trucks look dogsh*t to me

 

Really just the number of airbags. Would prefer side curtain airbags in front and bag. Knee bags on the front. Pre-tensioners in the rear as well. Ideally, decent modern crash safety ratings. I also recognize that my wants may just be based on irrational fears or poor understanding of safety and the progression of safety standards.

 

I got the wife a Honda passport and we are very happy with it. Lots of room and comfort and can handle our rural roads and camping no problem. Feels good and solid like most hondas and isnt to techy which I appreciate. Hauls ass for what it is too

 

Nice. I should clarify that our requirements currently include a 3rd row. I would consider the Pilot if it didn't look like a minivan that was pretending to be a SUV. I'd much rather have an actual minivan

 

Fair point. I didnt like the pilot either haha.

 

Hm... So it seems like I might be on the right track w/ a 2010s LC/LX. Anyone here ever own one of these? I have started lurking ih8mud a bit.

 

Staying in Toyota, Sequoia or Highlander.

 

Sequoia is a good suggestion. Not sure why I hadn't thought of that.

 

Any thoughts on a ~2017 Armada or QX80? I know they aren't going to have the aftermarket support that you'd get in a LC or LX, but what's the general consensus on reliability?

 

You need a van bro

 

Doesn’t get much better for what you are asking than a 200 series LC IMO! You are gonna pay for it though, Sequoia might be a little cheaper and easier to find.

 

1st gen Sequoias have a Tacoma feel to them, they are quite humble.

 

I would love a Delica or Hiace or even a decked out Sienna. My wife is adamantly against vans though...