My wife has an '04 4Runner...and I love it. It's a great for winter driving, and I feel better knowing she's up off the ground some in the 'Runner. It's heavy, and keeps her from being too much of a lead-foot.
I love my Bimmer...but my recommendation for the wife would be the 4Runner. Easy getting kids in and out, safe, good in all weather conditions, etc. etc.