Which trim?

My decision came down to a few things I wanted, And a few things I didn't want.

I wanted model 3 or better, ATP, navigation, sun roof

I didn't want, low profile tires, White seats and dash.

I was lucky to find a model 3, ATP, all weather mats, console black overlay, sunroof, black interior, gray exterior. Just about perfect for me.

 

Wanted a Three or better with as many tech options as possible, BUT I did not want the sun roof if it didn't include some other benefit like a solar array. I chose a Four Touring + PCP, and I will consider adding a compact spare and replacing/reworking the foam inserts.

I would've liked the HUD, and a spare, but BSM and no moonroof was more important. I like the 17" wheels and suspension compared to the 15"s I had on Gen2 and Gen3. I may be leaving MPGs on the table, strictly speaking, but I still get >10% better than I had before. Good enough for me, and I'll keep the improved appearance.

 

We are in exactly the same place in regards of the spare tire. I was going back and forward between 3 and 4. And big contra for having 4 was that drilling business to insert the spare (although numerous people did it for different models, including 4. See other posts on this forum). But did it come to your mind to buy a spare and just stick it behind the front seat when going for a road trip. We usually go with my wife and all the space behind is stuffed with other things anyway. It would make no difference to have a spare on the floor. And while driving in the city take it out and rely either on the repair kit or the towing service if anything happens?

 

Yes, but only for about 28 seconds. It's a general hassle, dirty, and either inconvenient to secure or dangerous not to. The Gen4 is not a Gen2 as far as rear legroom is concerned, so even a space saver stuck behind either front seat can impinge on space up front by inhibiting sliding and/or reclining the seat back. I'm not saying it wouldn't work for anyone, just not for us. The extra toys weren't worth it - and we are very happy with our Hypersonic Red Three w/ATP and Harvest Beige interior.

 

free yourself - go spareless!

 

Why stop there? Really free yourself and skip comprehensive auto insurance for big savings! I mean, I haven't filed an accident claim in over 20 years, so really what's the point?

 

There is always a first time. And it may be inconvenient. I once had a complete blow up on the highway going for a job interview. At that time I had an old Tercel with a full spare, not a donut. And was very thankful I did!

 

I agree. I do not plan having a car with no spare. But I am torn between 3 and 4 (or 3T vs 4T for this matter). I almost settled on 3T (not 3 because I really don't want fabric seats), but a couple of safety on 4, especially blind spot monitor and cross traffic alert, keep me thinking that I will probably have to cut that stuff in the trunk and put there a donut, like other folks did. I have to agree it would be inconvenient and morally wrong to drag the donut back and forth when going for a trip. It is a pity we a having this discussion. What a shame not to have a spare because of couple MPG difference! Clearly, Toyota was planning this when oil was $120

 

congrats! all the best.

 

I'm with you Saibari, first time purchasing top of the line for me as well, and I've gone through 16 vehicles in my 46 years of driving. Congrats, this is a wonderful car for all the reasons you describe and more. J

 

I keep hearing this, and I have to say it's overlooking a huge point - tow trucks don't bring spare tires. If you don't have a spare, you're going to have to be hauled back to a garage (which must be done carefully), while a car with a spare can just be jacked up and have the spare tire put in place. You drive home and go to your local tire shop ASAP to get a proper replacement tire mounted.

As for not knowing how to swap a wheel, if you really are in the middle of nowhere with no phone access, I think you can figure it out if the alternative is dying in the wilderness - the manual is not completely useless on this point. That's a heck of a lot better option than - what? Praying that the flat isn't so bad that the tire repair kit won't work? Bad options are better than no options at all.

I'm not saying that spare tires are a miraculous repellent of vehicle mishaps, absolutely essential for everyone in all circumstances for all cars - like everything, one can argue the risk/benefit. There's no spare tire in my i-MiEV, for instance, but I figured that's okay because a) the front and rear wheels are different sizes, so you'd actually need two spares, b) there's literally no room anywhere for even one spare (look closely at one some time), and perhaps most important, c) the car can't leave town anyway (it's a BEV with ~70 mi range).

But for cars with more diverse missions, a spare does give you some additional protection from some relatively common occurrences (i.e., you're a lot more likely to get a flat than to be hit by lightning, though you'll have to consult an actuary for the numbers), and I don't think it's reasonable to assume it's of no value whatever, as some seem to argue (though I suspect a lot of that's rationalizing the reality that's been imposed by Toyota).

 

That sounds over torqued. Dealership doing the rotations?

Torqued to around 75~80 ft/lb, it only takes moderate effort. Best to half-loosen before raising the wheel.

 

I'm with you. We bought the 4 touring for the tech systems in spite of no spare tire. Then I paid Toyota $280 for a compact spare. But I wouldn't pay the $450 for new foam ( as in the 3 Touring). I cut out the existing foam. Only the jack has to ride above the deck. Now I need to replace the front headrests which are so far forward they give me a pain in the neck.