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Rain = Giant 4x4 SUV? Man, if you hate how a FWD sedan handles rain, wait until you drive a RWD SUV in the rain (unless you plan to engage the 4X4 every time the skies open a bit, and even then I don't think it's going to give you the confidence you're really looking for).
If the high winds and low traction of a good ol' Southern rainstorm freak you out (I lived in NC for a couple of years, so I know what you're talking about), then you do NOT want anything with a large side profile, that is tall, that generally has poor traction, and that takes that much more time to stop because of the excess weight. That means you DON'T want an SUV, at least not a 'truck-like' one like the 4-Runner. Stick with FWD or AWD (not to be confused with 4WD); they'll give you the best traction in the wet. Honestly, your sedan is probably as good an option as any, but if you want something with a bit more sure-footedness, check out Subaru. They're AWD and very sure-footed but still handle and behave like a car and get much better MPG than the 4-Runner.
Well I just said a Certified Pre-Owned 2-3 Pick-Up truck would be a good idea if he has to Rush out of his home and throw lots of things in the bed and later clean up, Retrieve lost items, haul new building supplies and fuel to run a portable generator to run power tools to Rebuild after a twister hits.
Hard to beat a 2009-2013 Ford F-150 for being useful in all situations and to get you somewhere safe and also be there to help you and Rebuild and clean up as well as help other after one hits.
From what you've said about weather concerns, you might consider one of the compact all wheel drive SUVs like the RAV4, CRV, Ford Escape, Subaru Forester. The AWD systems really grip the road in tough weather, provided you have good tires.
Well I just said a Certified Pre-Owned 2-3 Pick-Up truck would be a good idea if he has to Rush out of his home and throw lots of things in the bed and later clean up, Retrieve lost items, haul new building supplies and fuel to run a portable generator to run power tools to Rebuild after a twister hits.
Hard to beat a 2009-2013 Ford F-150 for being useful in all situations and to get you somewhere safe and also be there to help you and Rebuild and clean up as well as help other after one hits.
I'd so rock a 2013 F-150 FX4 Ecoboost with all of the goodies. Love that truck!
Also if you want something smaller than a F-150 and more family friendly with some of the Capability of a PU truck The late model Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a Good option for your needs IMO
I guess I am not getting your concerns about wind and rain.........most places have various weather issues and all kinds of cars do just fine. It isn't like you are a tornado chaser or anything like that.
There are a lot of really good cars being built today and it boils down to what features and style you like. I have owned Hondas, Toyotas, and probably every domestic car brand made, and have found most of them to be dependable, safe, and comfortable to use. I currently have a Cadillac and have had a bunch of those over the years with great success, but I can't think of many lemons I have had either.
As for the Kias, they really are a good value and seem to be a good car. Both of my Sons girlfriends have Kias and I was very impressed with the size and comfort of them. My one Son has a Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab and it does everything a car does but gives us great towing ability and a bed to haul stuff in. When you are in it you would think you are riding in a regular passenger car, it is that comfortable and plush.
Lots of great cars out there, you just have to narrow it down to your price range and the features you want.
I mean at least try to acknowledge the people trying to help you out. Its useless and rather rude if you're not giving feedback.
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