# Eli's Cross-Country Road Trip Car Search

> Eli needs a reliable $20,000 car for a snowy Maine move with towing.
- Title: Eli's Cross-Country Road Trip Car Search · Jalopnik | Shortify
- Summary: Eli needs a reliable $20,000 car for a snowy Maine move with towing. Eli should buy a 2024 Subaru Outback, 2012 Lexus GX 460, or 100-series Land Cruiser for…
- Keywords: eli, maine, vag, subaru outback, lexus gx 460, land cruiser 100, cross country road trip, towing capacity, all wheel drive, budget 20000, cars, culture
- Source: Jalopnik — https://jalopnik.com/2287960/cross-country-road-trip-car-20-000-wcsyb
- Author: Tom McParland
- Published: 2026-10-15T18:25:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: eli, maine, vag, subaru outback, lexus gx 460, land cruiser 100, cross country road trip, towing capacity, all wheel drive, budget 20000, cars, culture
## Eli's Situation
Eli is tired of LA and plans to move to Maine with his girlfriend and dog.
## Car Needs
He needs a reliable car with all-wheel drive, towing capacity, and space for sleeping.
## Budget Constraint
Eli has a $20,000 budget and plans to sell the car next spring.
## Expert 1: Tom McParland
Tom recommends a 2024 Subaru Outback for its towing capacity and sleeper space.
## Expert 2: Daniel Golson
Daniel suggests a 2012 Lexus GX 460 with all-wheel drive and towing capacity.
## Expert 3: Amber DaSilva
Amber recommends a 100-series Land Cruiser for minimal depreciation over a short trip.
## Key takeaway

Eli should buy a 2024 Subaru Outback, 2012 Lexus GX 460, or 100-series Land Cruiser for his cross-country trip.