Car rental confusion
 

We're planning to rent a 4-wheel drive for our trip to Costa Rica. We have a group of 5 and at least 4 large suitcases. Unfortunately, I'm not familiar with any of the vehicles available. I need auto transmission and a comfortable, roomy backseat. Many seem to have cramped seating in back. Any recommendations?

Here's what I've found available:

Nissan Pathfinder
Toyota 4runner
Suzuki XL7
Mitsubishi Outlander
Toyota Prado
Suzuki Grand Vitara

Thanks!
Debbie

Its not on your list, but a Toyota Rav4 might suit your needs. This seems to be the car of choice in Costa Rica - every hotel parking lot was full of them. I rented one for a group of 5 and had no problems. The backseat is comfortable, but I don't know if it would qualify as spacious (it certainly wasn't cramped). A group of 5 might be uncomfortable if anyone is over six feet tall. We had one tall guy in our group and he avoided the discomfort by sitting in front. The trunk fit four standard size wheely suitcases and four carry-on type bags.

See! I told you I was confused. I thought the Rav4 was smaller than the 4Runner. The backseat will need to hold two s and a child so maybe any of these will be ok.

Any other comments?

TIA
Deb

We rented a Toyota 4Runner for 4 people with 4 suitcases, plus groceries, water, ice chest, etc. and it was perfect. I can't imagine how we would have managed with a RAV4, which has a much smaller luggage compartment. We opted for manual transmission, but I believe our company (Europcar) offers auto transmission as well.

The Rav4 is smaller than the 4Runner. It sounds like the seating would be fine in a Rav4, but if you have lots of luggage, TAGriffin is right, the luggage compartment is smaller. We fit all of our luggage without a problem, but everyone brought wheelies and no ice chests were involved. My suggestion is to look at these cars in your neighborhood - when I was deciding, I investigated Rav4's in my neighborhood (they're everywhere once you start looking!). After seeing the trunk space, I thought it would be okay.

As a matter of fact, I looked in the windows of a Rav4 last night. I thought there was very little leg room in the back seat but probably enough luggage space.

Right now my main concern is comfort for the backseat passengers. Anyone know about the other s?

Rav4 is not going to be comfortable for 5 people.
It doesn't has comfortable, roomy backseat.

Go with the 4Runner!

The 4Runner and the Pathfinder are almost identical and as long as no-one is really tall 5 will fit okay. The Prado is a slightly bigger version of the 4Runner and would probably be a better choice.
I have friends here in Panama with all 3 models and one guy who is well over 6 feet fits in the front or back of the Prado.
Rav4 definitely not - a lot smaller than the Prado etc. as are the Suzukis.

Keep your heads away from the ceiling on CR roads though - huge potholes even on the main highways.

Andrew

How about a vehicle for a larger group? We have two families traveling together, two kids in each family (ages 10-13). We've been trying to figure out if there is a four wheel drive vehicle that would hold 8 (and luggage). We've heard contradicting info on total passengers that some of the larger vehicles will hold, and whether they have the maneuverability needed for the roads.

Any thoughts on both availability and drivability? Would it be ok to put a softsided car carrier on top or is that an invitation to lose it with all of our luggage?

Or, are we better off considering two separate vehicles that we are sure will have the four wheel drive and enough leg room for travel and suitcases?

Would love to hear from anyone who has some info on this topic. Thanks! BethAnne

You need to keep all your luggage inside the vehicle! I do not know if there is a large van available (that is basically what you are needing) from the rental companies. Never have seen them advertised. My suggestion is to rent 2 vehicles. You won't be able (at least I think it would not be easy or feasible) to stay together during your tranfers. Sometimes when you focus on HAVING to stay together, it can cause problems and this is one place you will want to reduce road problems-- not increase them. If I were you, I'd just plan to meet at the destination and plan to be somewhat flexible. It seems you would have a more relaxing trip if you didn't have to worry about "keeping up with" or "keeping on eye out for" another vehicle. Just say goodbye to your friends and "I'll see you again when we all get there!" Does this sound crazy anyone?

Your other option is to hire a driver (most of whom will have the type of vehicle you need for a large group and luggage). Do this if it is important that you not be separated.