New XLE AWD driver here. So, after owning this wagon for a few weeks, I have to say I'm enjoying it. A year ago, I was driving a MINI Cooper S, and now this. Who'd a thunk it? In between, was a Volvo XC90, which proved too small for what is now a new family with kids from each side. Anyway, enough of the Dr. Phil stuff, here's some thoughts and general questions, which might be interesting to talk about...
First: tires. I think this van has a great engine and handles surprisingly well, but the tires leave me cold. Don't care
care so much that they’re run-flats, but this particular Bridgestone is way too vanilla and geared to make Joe and Jane Public happy. When these things wear down, I’d really like to see some driver-oriented rubber available, in a run-flat. Michelin and Continental have nice high performance all-season tires in other sizes. What do you think? Will we something available in a 235/55-18 other than this B-stone?
Springs: I know it’s been touched upon elsewhere, but I’d like to hear some more feedback on switching over to SE springs. What’s the affect on handling? Big? And, how much did the swap cost you (parts and labor)?
Also, some DVD input: My XLE didn’t have the DVD option. First I looked at the add-ons that are in the Toyota brochure. Didn’t really dig those, as they looked like a headrest strap-on, basically. My dealer here in MD suggested a 3rd party audio/video business that they work with, and we checked out a system that replaces the headrests. We went with that, and we’re very happy with the result. Leather matches perfectly, looks OEM, and works great. Pricey, at almost $2K, but really nicely done.
Well, that’s a start. Good to be here!
First: tires. I think this van has a great engine and handles surprisingly well, but the tires leave me cold. Don't care
care so much that they’re run-flats, but this particular Bridgestone is way too vanilla and geared to make Joe and Jane Public happy. When these things wear down, I’d really like to see some driver-oriented rubber available, in a run-flat. Michelin and Continental have nice high performance all-season tires in other sizes. What do you think? Will we something available in a 235/55-18 other than this B-stone?
Springs: I know it’s been touched upon elsewhere, but I’d like to hear some more feedback on switching over to SE springs. What’s the affect on handling? Big? And, how much did the swap cost you (parts and labor)?
Also, some DVD input: My XLE didn’t have the DVD option. First I looked at the add-ons that are in the Toyota brochure. Didn’t really dig those, as they looked like a headrest strap-on, basically. My dealer here in MD suggested a 3rd party audio/video business that they work with, and we checked out a system that replaces the headrests. We went with that, and we’re very happy with the result. Leather matches perfectly, looks OEM, and works great. Pricey, at almost $2K, but really nicely done.
Well, that’s a start. Good to be here!