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Vehicle Under Scrutiny

Employee responds to inquiries from readers.

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3 min read
Correspondent addresses reader inquiries in question-and-answer segment.
Correspondent addresses reader inquiries in question-and-answer segment.

Vehicle Under Scrutiny

Addressing Readers' Vehicle Inquiries: Recommendations for Replacing a 2013 Toyota Sienna

In a special collaboration, Eric LeFrancois from Heavy Loads explores alternatives to replace a 2013 Toyota Sienna, seeking a vehicle with a towing capacity of 4,500 to 5,000 pounds and versatile interior for family and work purposes.

Luc D. inquired about suitable options for a two or three-year-old used vehicle, highlighting the Sienna's versatility for moving children, vacations, and construction work. While another Sienna is an option, its towing capacity is limited to 3,500 pounds. If frequent towing isn't essential, one might consider renting a vehicle with a higher towing capacity as needed. An alternative recommendation is the Honda Pilot, known for its consistency, comfort, fuel efficiency, and high resale value.

Daniel R. asked about replacing his gas-guzzling 2018 Mercedes vehicles with electric ones. His children urged him to make the switch, but Daniel expressed concerns about range, especially during regular highway driving between Estrie and Beloeil as well as annual trips to the South. A compromise may be found in a hybrid vehicle such as the Volvo XC60 Recharge or a Mercedes GLC 350e, which offer extended electric ranges. Mercedes will launch a fully electric version of the GLC next year for those seeking full electrification.

Diane C.S. lamented the lack of compact cars suitable for urban environments with limited room for children and no need for off-road capabilities. She owns a 2020 Honda Fit but seeks a replacement to pass on to her family. While small cars are scarce in North America, a Mini Cooper, with its satisfying drive and optional electric powertrains, could prove to be a pleasing alternative.

In response to a reader's query about a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek, the article assures that with proper maintenance, the vehicle can travel over 200,000 kilometers without issues, refuting rumors of problems after seven years.

To assist readers in their vehicle search, consider the following options offering a combination of towing capability and versatile interiors:

  1. 2022 Honda Odyssey - Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds (with available towing package); spacious interior; strongly recommended for families and vacations.
  2. 2022 Chrysler Pacifica - Towing Capacity: Up to 3,600 pounds (with available towing package); versatile Stow 'n Go seating system; suitable for families and cargo needs.
  3. 2021 Ford Transit Connect - Towing Capacity: Up to 4,460 pounds (with appropriate towing package); customizable interior configurations; suitable for both family and construction uses.
  4. 2022 Subaru Ascent - Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds; spacious interior layout; ample space for passengers and cargo.
  5. 2022 Kia Telluride - Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds; versatile interior layout; family-friendly design.

While these options may not exactly replicate the 2013 Toyota Sienna's specific towing capacity or interior design, they offer a desirable blend of versatility and towing capability suitable for families, vacations, and construction work. The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, though newer, boasts a 5,000-pound towing capacity and a versatile interior, but it may not meet the criteria for a two to three-year-old vehicle.

  1. For those seeking a suitable alternative to the 2013 Toyota Sienna with a towing capacity of 4,500 to 5,000 pounds, the 2022 Honda Odyssey is a recommended option, offering a spacious interior and up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity with an available towing package, making it suitable for families and vacations.
  2. For readers who require a vehicle with a versatile interior for both family and work purposes, similar to the Sienna, the 2022 Chrysler Pacifica is another option, touting a towing capacity of up to 3,600 pounds with an available towing package, and a versatile Stow 'n Go seating system, ideal for families and cargo needs.
  3. If car maintenance and fuel efficiency are important factors for a vehicle, one might consider the 2021 Ford Transit Connect, which offers a customizable interior configuration, up to 4,460 pounds of towing capacity (with an appropriate towing package) along with impressive fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both family and construction uses.
  4. For individuals with a need for ample space for passengers and cargo, the 2022 Subaru Ascent might be a candidate, boasting a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and a spacious interior layout, making it an appealing choice for families, vacations, and construction work.
  5. Lastly, the 2022 Kia Telluride presents another option with a versatile interior layout and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, serving families with a family-friendly design.

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