I've accumulated quite a fleet.

"RPM esq." (rpm3)
03/12/2016 at 13:03 • Filed to: E46 M3, BMW, FJ80, LAND CRUISER, TOYOTA, RAV4, AUDI, SQ5

It would be fun, if I had the time, to write Oppo reviews for all of them...I did one for the M3 and someday I’ll do one for the SQ5. But if anyone has questions about these models, I’ve got answers.

DISCUSSION (9)

Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo > RPM esq.
03/12/2016 at 13:16

Yes: why did you never tell me you had Land Cruiser? Thank you.

RPM esq. > Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo
03/12/2016 at 13:19

Ha. Good question. It’s my winter/muddy dog/hiking and camping/garden store/teaching-my-kid-to-drive car.

E92M3 > RPM esq.
03/12/2016 at 13:43

Nice job sir! I approve 3 out of 4.

Would you consider the SQ5 to be “sporty”? How’s the steering feel?

RPM esq. > E92M3
03/12/2016 at 14:11

Haha which one don’t you approve of? Before you answer, you should know that the Rav4 has the V6 that makes it the fastest car Toyota offered at the time (admittedly not saying much, but it moves surprisingly well)...and that it is Mrs. RPM esq.’s car. Actually, it’s probably the best road trip car I’ve ever used for that purpose, although the SQ5 might surpass it—we’ll see.

Regarding the SQ5: it’s certainly fast, and the paddle shifts in “manual” mode are crisp and not so idiot-proof you couldn’t get yourself in trouble. Also, the suspension is nearly perfect for a car of this type, again considering how much mass and interior space it’s supporting: quite firm for a crossover/small SUV, and tight enough in turns, but certainly a far more luxurious ride than the M3. As for steering feel, in “comfort” mode, the steering is way too light for my taste. In “dynamic,” it’s responsive without any dead space in the center (possibly even less than my M3, actually), and feels very good but still somewhat light, although I think I only notice so much because I keep switching between driving it and the M3 and the Cruiser (which has what might charitably be called MUCH less assistance from the aged power steering). For its size, the SQ5 certainly feels planted and responsive. So yes, while it’s a little taller than a lot of us might prefer, it does a good job filling the “fast wagon” niche.

HammerheadFistpunch > RPM esq.
03/12/2016 at 14:14

What year is your cruiser? Normally the wheels are a clue but those are Tacoma sport 17 inchers so...

RPM esq. > HammerheadFistpunch
03/12/2016 at 14:43

Heh. It’s a ‘92. And you’re right about the Tacoma wheels.

zeontestpilot > RPM esq.
03/12/2016 at 15:53

Do you pay a lot of insurance for them?

E92M3 > RPM esq.
03/12/2016 at 16:56

Haha you knew I was thinking of the Rav4. I’ve only driven a 4cyl version, and it left a bad taste in my mouth. Was a noisy little engine that struggled just to keep up with traffic.

I’m looking for something a little smaller to replace my MDX, but still has some sportiness too it. Everything I’ve driven so far is way too plush, and makes the MDX feel like a sports sedan in comparison. I need to drive a SQ5. Steering was too numb/light in the regular Q5. Now that everything is going to electric steering it may be a while before I find something that has the right feel. Assuming manufacturers continue to improve the feedback with EPS.

RPM esq. > zeontestpilot
03/12/2016 at 20:05

I do!