Why I chose the 4Runner for overlanding (and why it's not perfect!)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 3 ต.ค. 2024
- Earlier this year, I switched from a Jeep Grand Cherokee to the 5th generation 4Runner. In this video I explain why I switched, and why I chose the 4Runner Trail Edition for overlanding. I also go over some of the things that I dislike about the 4Runner, because no matter what anyone says, there's no such thing as the perfect vehicle for overlanding!
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To address some common comments/questions:
1) Yes, I have driven a manual. No, I didn't explain myself very well. My first 5 vehicles were manuals, and my wife has owned 4 manual vehicles. I bought my first automatic at 27. When shifting from 1st to 2nd, you pull the stick completely towards yourself. When shifting from 2nd to 3rd, you follow a dogleg pattern. Yes, I know the dogleg pattern is away, but it's not a single movement away. In addition to that strange reasoning, most sequential shifters found in racing/rally cars also shift up by pulling back.
2) "It's not a manual shifter it's a..." Everyone who has made this point has called it something different. Either way, it limits the top gear, rather than selecting exactly which gear you're in. Whatever you call it, it has the same effect when used as described in the video.
3) I'm from England. That's why I talk funny. I moved to Kentucky ten years ago.
4) I guess I am shaped weird. 99% of people love the 4Runner seats. I will admit that they're growing on me, but they're still really hard. I recently sat in a new TRD Pro, and while the seats were the same shape, they were a LOT softer!
5) Mine is a 2010 Trail Edition. There really isn't a big difference between it and the newer models - slightly different front bumper and headlights, newer radio, and softer seats are all you really get with the newer ones.
My second vehicle was my dad's cast off Ford F150. I thought I was re-viving a dead hulk. With the 289 engine I basically had a Mustang with no rich kid vibe. I was the Road Warrior before George Miller ever saw his first insane biker. The shifter was pinned to the column with a bent #10 common nail. Shifting? I just did a little of this and a little of that, just like I'd seen my dad do thousands of times. Later in another vehicle I saw the H-pattern. If there'd been one in my pick-up it was long gone. So that's what I'd been doing for a year. 45 years later I can still do that pattern.... It wasn't an H it had a few more zigzags in it.
Thanks for #3. That southern twang with the English base make you sound like an Aussie expat. 😂
I would agree on the seats. I found the 2020 to have a much softer seat (compared to our work vehicle ).
My wife and I got a 2020. It is a bit better than the older models (mine is a TRD OR).
Just wondering do you still have this 4runner n end of 2020? And any reliability issues from the lift kit? TIA.
@@lcorr090k6 still got it. Coming up to 180k miles now and all I've done is replace oil and brakes.
Im a 58 year old solo female and just bought my first ever 4runner for over landing (which I’ve also never done before, lol) so your channel is really helping me get to know more about my truck before I take it out. Thank you!!
Super excited!
As a prior 4Runner owner and former Toyota Technician I can truthfully (and maybe with a bias) say you made an excellent decision.
Myvkast 4runner had the V8 and Ibsold it at 418K miles and it honestly drove like new.
I've seen the V6 get upwards of 300k miles with no issues at all as well.
Best of luck and happy wheeling
@@jerlaine1638 thank you!
@@NilDreams how are your adventures going so far?
You will love it. Enjoy!
Rob, this was one of the most Honest Long Term Reviews Ive seen on youtube. It lacked bias, and touched on almost everything. The 4 Runner is IMHO the best all around SUV on the market. It isnt the best at anything, but great at everything. For me, Crawl control has been a life saver in Deep sand (Lots to find here in FL). My biggest complaints are the gearing (The MPG sux) and the lack of Modern Tech (We take them offroad, but they get way more time on pavement during commutes)..
Thanks! I tried crawl control at Lake Powell when I failed to get up a dune, but it just continued to dig me in, but that might be a difference in tires!
@@RevereOverland It might be that you were not giving it a chance to do what it needed to do. It takes time for it to dig itself out. The deeper you are, the more it has to re-fill the hole to lift itself out. Believe me, I have purposely buried it to the frame on the stock tires and let it just work away.
SHWELL11 my 2012 Limited 4RUNNER has 274000 miles on it and the only thing on the motor I replaced was and alternator at 247000 miles and the belt- do my own oil - air filter- brakes - still gets 19 or more miles per gal no hi way - the power from 0 to 80 is still fast - little off road by all hi way- 30000 per year and doing 80 every day on the hi ways by me - my first was a 2003 - I will take this one past 300000 by August - can’t beat it
@Pro4x Trdpro If "long term" is 6 months to you i guess so...
I totally agree. The most important thing is you can drive back from remote places, and along the way tow the Jeep for your friend
ge gary 🤣😂🤣
LOL
😂
Had my first 4Runner for 19 years, on my second one and loving it.
Stevespecs how many miles did you rack up on that bad boy? I just got one and im beyond pleased with it.
Bought 99 new still have it 215,000 miles original drive line runs perfect looks great and she ain't no pavement princess lol. Never stuck stranded or towed anywhere her name is Grace cause she's freaking Amazin. 4Runners are like potato chips ya can't have just 1. Also have 97 325,00 miles original drive line runs perfect. Also not a pavement princess. Drive either anywhere tomorrow with no worries. And my Border Collie loves the rear window lol.
I grew up with my parents driving me around in a 1997 4Runner. When I turned 17 (2007) I used the 4Runner to get my drivers license. Now it’s 2021 still running strong, and I now drive my 4 year old around with it.
Solid review. Back in the day I was a tank officer in the Canadian Army, and I do a lot of ATVing, so I feel I know a lot about offroading. I am on my 4th 4Runner, a 2018 TRD Offroad, which is also my daily drive. Enough said.
I have same 2018 trd pro off-road I really want to go off-road what don't know the place where to go
@@joban558 Where do you live?
A hell of a recommendation as far as I'm concerned.
Thanks for your service!
There isn’t a better,more reliable,or affordable vehicle in this class on the planet.👍
Brian 2015 Nissan Xterra is way more affordable for the same features. I can definitely agree tho, you can’t beat Toyota’s reliability
Greg Williams
Agreed.Love the Xterra,was sorry to see it go,but will be delighted when it returns.👍
Fj80
Greg Williams, 3 Nissans, 1 Xterra, 2 Pathfinders. Switched to 4Runner... would never go back. My last Nissan had a lot of problems.
@@zulmaortiz9620 totally agree, went from an 04 Xterra to a 14 4runner. Upgrade is an undersratement.
America needs the 70 series LC
I’d love one!
Nah, Americans are too soft.
@Dab Dab Goose: you can get one now that is 25 years or older from Japan, Spain or anywhere else in the world. Check out JDM Car and Motorcycle in Seattle, WA, Landcruisersdirect in MO, JDM AutoImports in Janesville, WI and many other US importers!
@@MaximumDIYGarage I'm from Australia I don't need to lol.
@Dab Dab Goose : yes, but Americans need the 70-series, you’re correct! I meant to address it to the author of the video
This review was extremely refreshing but what was most impressive was how you showed how capable this vehicle was in mostly stock form. Bravo on the great review.
I was gonna buy a Wrangler but I'm 97% on paved road, a utilitarian homeowner who needs a more spacious cargo & off road capable transporter. And of course, the 4Runner is indeed a lot more reliable... 😉🙃
Drahcir You are correct. I own a wrangler not much space for anything.
@@rgjr.6055 wait. You mean to tell me the wrangler doesnt have more cargo space than 4runner? I thought the wrangler was bigger and better cargo space
style 20 A two door Wrangler basically has no cargo space. That’s why they make roof racks and hitch racks.
@@rgjr.6055 oh I thought you were talking about the 4 doors. Sorry
@@fakedazzleful The 4 door Wrangler also has tiny cargo space.
I really appreciate this detailed video. My husband & I have been considering purchasing a 4 Runner for some time now. We need a family vehicle with the option of going off roading whenever time permits. We are ready to move forward with this purchase coming up real soon. Thank You!
Crawl Control is absolutely all it is advertised to be. I re-created the test that Toyota did illustrating the CC in the sand(stock street tires) and it does just what it showed. Granted, the idea is to NOT get stuck in the 1st place and experienced off-road drivers have been NOT getting stuck since long before CC was created. However, as the saying goes, it is better to have the tool and not need it than to have a need and not have the tool. ;) All the whistles and bells on the TRD(Trail) editions are fantastic tools. Put the proper tires on for the terrain you are going on and you are golden.
I currently own a 2004 4runner, previously had a 2000 4runner, and have also owned a 2013 JKU Wrangler, and will soon be in the market for either a 5th gen 4runner, or JLU Wrangler. Everything you have said is spot on. I like both vehicles for different things, but a 4runner will beat a Jeep as a daily driver. But there are definite benefits to owning a Wrangler, as they are just a super fun vehicle to own. The ability to take the top and doors off is such a fun and amazing feature. Also the aftermarket as you mentioned for the Wrangler is much better supported. You simply have a ton of options to customize and add to your Jeep anything you want from seats, to bumpers. I'm going to test drive the JLU and see how I like it and depending on that it will be a really tough decision on what to get next.
I have a 2019 JLU Rubicon and love it. I also love the T4R TRD PRO too but unfortunately my bank account isn’t big enough to own both, and it was a hard decision to choose. I chose the Rubicon because it had some features that Toyota wasn’t offering on the T4R yet. I drove to Colorado from Texas (1,000 miles each way) did the mountain trails at the top of the passes and came back and it was great. Obviously you’ve owned both so you know what you’re getting into. Unfortunately there’s a lot of shit talking on these videos and forums but both vehicles are great in my opinion.
The transmission doesn’t have a manual shift mode. It is a limiter, when you move it to “S” mode and place it in what ever gear you choose, the transmission won’t shift any higher then that, but it won’t force it into only that gear. It’s intent is for breaking and limiting the speed you go down declines
My wife is on her 4th 4Runner. A 2017. We love them! I do love Jeeps as well.
What happened to the other 3?
Joe Steele the first two she traded up. The last one got totaled because some dumb girl was playing on her phone and ran a red light. She T-boned my wife. Luckily the 4Runner kept her safe.
@@Cogzed Wow! Glad she was ok. I've been up in the air between a 4runner and a tacoma. I love both. Just not sure which one I want to go with.
@@joesteele3159 Depends what you use it for. I have a 16' Tacoma that I tow a 4200lb camper with as well. The 4Runner would limit me severely in that aspect, for when the gf wants her bed, tv, and bathroom lol. The 4Runner is definitely the better off-road vehicle tho.
I had a 2015 4 door wrangler. Which was an animal over here in canada. But traded it in for a 2022 4runner this year and just wow. Night and day better in every way. You've stated a lot of the points but one thing that immediately stood out to me was how overall amazing the quality of life upgrade was. You're basically gaining a plush soft pillow instead of hard rock while still retaining everything that makes it tough. Lol it's hard to describe exactly but I've been a jeep owner all my life and now I know what I'd been missing.
Excellent and honest review. I personally love the seats. I used to have a Jetta, and I make a trip from Ohio to Texas every year. The Jetta destroyed my neck and back. I’ve had no issues making that trip the past 2 years in my 4Runner. It is sluggish. But I installed a Pedal Commander and the throttle response is fantastic now. At this point I can’t imagine that I will ever want anything other than a 4Runner.
If you've ever driven farm/heavy equipment with "shuttle shift" type transmissions the forward upshift/rear downshift will seem natural. plus if you orient the shifter like a light switch, forward being "up" will correlate to "adding" a gear... at least that's how my brain interprets it. Great review.
Great dependability usable space and dementions. This comes from a F150 owner.
I sold Toyotas for a couple years and own a 2005 SR5 4Runner. A customer who bought one once said there was a saying in Australia, if you want to go out in the outback you take a Land Rover or Range Rover, if you want to make it back you take a land cruiser.
You’re a perfect reviewer! And hit every nail on the head
Also, thanks for doing this review! I'm stuck between a 4runner and a Rubicon but as much as the heart wants the Rubicon, I just know it's not going to be reliable.
4runner going to be hold the price but jeep not I loose half of money in two and half years plus Bluetooth is not good on jeep
Definitely 4runner
Rubicon is pure trash...belongs in a trash pile or graveyard.
Happy dugg wrangler has top resale of any car in Canada and I suspect one of the top 5 in USA. Call it garbage call it unreliable, but they hold their value well.
Very honest presentation.Just lain information no personal views.Top notch job.
I, for one, especially appreciate your CANDOR ... also, in your introduction to overlanding video. For instance, I really saw the Truth in your introductory statement, "the best overland vehicle for you is the one you already have." THANKS ...
Fellow Kentuckian here, considering living in a 4Runner to drive cross country. :) thanks for your video!
Great review... thanks. I've owned my 4RT (KDSS) for 10 years, have taken it in some harsh terrain including pulling my A/T Chaser and it never fails; never any problems, just routine dealer maintenance. Now at 108,000 miles. I too did aftermarket leather and a slight lift. I considered a LC, but, the 4RT had more cargo room for a slightly smaller package and it'll go anywhere a LC can go. Of course more power in the LC, but, is it really needed in 99% of situations. My son had 320,000 miles on his 4R before he sold it and it was in great condition; just routine maintenance.
I got the 2020 4Runner TRD PRO!!! In white!!!
I am loving it!!!!
Great choice. I just sat in one today and immediately wanted a Pro!
Many of us are feeling the envy now until we look at the payments. Ha Ha Ha
I recommend getting a Sprint Booster module to wake up your 4runner for a quicker acceleration.
And for remote start, Accessorides system is your best solution. You'll love it!
Both are plug-n-play and easy to install. (Took me about 30 min for both)
Btw, great content. Keep it up!
Does the Accessorides remote start turn off when you open the door? Most I've read about do, and I'd like one that stays on!
@@RevereOverland Nope! It'll stay on.
Here, let me explain the sequences when starting the engine remotely from the OEM key fob:
-Press LOCK x3 on the key fob.
-Car beeps 3 times.
-Engine starts. The engine will stay running for 15 min then will auto shut off. (All doors remain locked)
Now, if you decide to get in and drive off:
*While the engine is running from the remote start.
-Press UNLOCK on key fob remote to unlock doors.
-Stick key into ignition switch, turn to ignition position (do not crank)
-Put it in gear and drive off.
Note:
If the brake pedal is pressed WITHOUT the key in the ignition position, the engine will shut off. It's their security feature.
In my opinion, Accessorides system is much better -- and cheaper -- than the one from the dealership.
Perfect! Thank you!
@@RevereOverland you're welcome! 👍
The most authentic review I have ever seen on 4 runners, thanks @revere. As for me I am on my 4th 4Runner I love the unrefined organic trucky feel of the 4Runner. Adding a supercharger to 4Runner should solve the problem of sluggish engine however wish could have got it from Toyota as OEM equipment. Apart from that no complains.
I improved the engine performance by installing a TRD CAI and the TRD performance exhaust and it significantly improved response even with 285/70/17
Great honest review. I had a 14 Tacoma with the same power train and know what you mean the power is just adequate stock. After I added 32" tires,lift and arb bumper it was a slug add to that a new puppy and towing my tractor I ended up in a diesel ram.
Shifting from 2nd to 3rd is forward but I get what you are saying, downshifting on race cars with sequential gearboxes is forward towards the front of the car, upshifting is pulling towards the rear of the car. Thank for the pros and cons. I dig your videos.
I have a 2010 SR5 bought new. I appreciate your and everyone's reviews of the 5th gen. I have a few comments, (the first of which I've never seen in print), good and bad. The truncated tow hitch is not deep enough. It has been shortened to allow the spare to rest against it. If you find yourself running out of gas and can force yourself to drive 45-50 on level ground, you can get (I am not making this up) 26mpg. On the highway at 60 I get 22.4 though in mixed driving I get 16. I have cloth seats but have always used custom sheepskin covers. I hope the 6th gen is relatively unchanged but has some of the crash avoidance and camera features of 21st century cars. Half the time I remove the right hand 60% of the back seat bottom, and keep the 14mm wrench in the car for that purpose. This allows the passenger to recline while having extra flat space. I have a dual lens dashcam in the right rear window. I plug in my cooler and this to the 12V outlet at that location. This records almost everything that's around me, but especially the guy that hits me in the rear. I'm more interested in that footage than proof that I screwed up, but I really like that the ugly camera is not in my face. I understand that Toyotas charge at a lower voltage than other cars, making them unsuited for certain battery types, but I love the fact that bulbs never burn out at this low voltage. We have yearly inspections in Virginia and other brands commonly fail because of a single bulb being out. Finally, if you lose something in your 4Runner, look in that mystery cubbyhole at the bottom of the dash.
I have the 2020 “Venture” edition. Fantastic vehicle and I came from a 2004 Pathfinder (old style) which was perfect for a daily driver and getting to my fishing holes - and it’s still running relatively strong today. But, my 4Runner has met and exceeded my expectations as a daily driver and off road. And my dog loves it too, if just for the rear window alone 😀
Great info, I currently have a 2009 Jeep Wrangler and looking for something more comfortable and with more storage space. This is one of the best reviews I’ve ever seen. Thanks ✌🏼
Couldn’t agree more. No, it’s not going to be as good of a rock crawler as a Jeep is. But the 4Runner is a better overlanding vehicle if you’re mainly doing moderate difficulty trails. A Trac does give you maybe 80% of a locker. Crawl control doesn’t interest me much. Descent assist sometimes comes in handy, but I prefer putting it in 1st in low range and just letting gravity do the work. If anybody is looking at buying one, mechanically an early 5th gen is basically the same as a new one at half the price.
An honest review. I have had two 4Runners, and totally agree.
I love 4Runners. I think they’re great vehicles. But it was really nice to hear someone talk about them realistically for once. No car or truck is perfect. Things will break. Did make me happy finding out the fuel economy was better than jeeps though lol. I’ve always been a little embarrassed about how bad my gas mileage is compared to my friends cars
You are a honest man and best review. Toyota is the most reliable SUV. My 1996 is still running almost 300 thousands miles.
I agree with you, great review as a 4Runner...I am getting a 2020 limited
Gotta love those cooled seats in the Limited!
Just bought a 2020 limited nightshade. I waited for all the new tech. Had it for a week now. Love love love. I'm so happy. Just make sure your salesperson knows everything about it. Came across one that didnt even know it has remote start standard and wanted to give remote start to me for free as part of the deal. Needless to say I didn't buy it from them. 😜 Do your research before you go. And Yes you will pay big 💰 for it but in the long run I feel its worth it. Plan on keeping mine for years. Drive your new one in the best of health and go camping!🌲
@@gratefulgirl6716 Thank you. I am actually trading my 2015 limited (80k on it already). I did not know about the remote starter, that is awesome. I got all the options I can get, including the Toyota dashcam which is a great feature now offered by them. I can not wait to pick it up. This one, I am going to keep it for a long time, but I have said that before. :) you too enjoy your limited and all the best.
Limited is for soccer moms. Why would you get a hardcore off road vehicle and buy the neutered old lady version that should not even exist?
Bassage13- o.k. so it doesn't have a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, or TRD Fox Shocks. But she's so pretty. LOL😜
Love your review. Giving range and passing power as well as storage points of view makes me super excited to get delivery of my Rivian R1S. Similar range, way more storage, more power. I was a little worried I wouldn’t be able to overland with it, but that would be very comparable.
This is the second video I have seen that knocks the cruise control on the 4runner. I just got me a 2018 and drove it from New Jersey to Utah 2196 miles and most of them using cruise control and my vehicle didn't miss a beat, I had no issues.
Excellent unbiased review of the 4runner. Like Brandon Weaver mentioned, I do miss seeing your WK videos. That is what actually attracted me to them, but your honesty and nonToyota bias has kept me following you. I own a 3rd gen 4runner with triple the miles of my JK. I still want to buy a Grand Cherokee mainly for the extra hp as my wife and I want to purchase a small trailer for traveling in.
The WK was definitely better for towing. The Hemi had so much power! I’ve heard the diesels are even better.
Great review! I have a Silver 2010 Trail and love it but FINALLY someone else that thinks the seats aren’t that comfortable on long hauls! It’s probably one of our top 3 complaints. Otherwise I’m 4Runner through and through and the OG Trail 👌🏻
Haha! Most people thought I was crazy when I complained about it. I drove a GX460 and had an aching back within about 15 minutes! I definitely got lucky with this one. OG Trail is where it’s at!
great video I definitely agree when you said the only vehicle you would trade your 4runner for is a newer 4runner,,I have a 2012 and have had zero issues with it ,I gave it to my wife only cause I have a tacoma Trd offroad to and the 4runner is better for her with the kids and her job
I traded in my 2004 up for a 2012 back in 2014 by the way and my next one is gonna be 2021 or 2022
Tacoma is good choice too! I just spent all weekend riding in a TRD Off-road Tacoma!
I started overlanding with a brand new FJ Cruiser my parents bought for me when i was 16 and am almost 29 now. I went from my FJ Cruiser to a 4Runner, and have tried a few others in between, but keep returning to 4Runner, buying a new 2019 TRD Off Road Premium in late 2018 which is my forever rig! I bought a Land Rover Defender when they came out, and didn't even keep it for a year lol, returning to my 4Runner. I recently bought a Sasquatch'd Bronco Wildtrak from my boss and, and it was fun for trail fun, but I ultimately just let my husband use it as a trade it towards a Bronco Raptor. That is a trail toy.. Not an overlander lol
The moral to this story is the 5th gen 4Runner is my forever rig! I'm Japanese, now living in British Columbia, Canada and did a 2 year scholarship in Australia, so I have driven MANY 4x4s, and can honestly say the 5th gen 4Runner is definitely the best a 4x4 in the North American market! Japanese built Toyota's are the best vehicles in the world!
I agree with everything I would only add regarding the transmission...just like the older jeep I once owned, OD on these vehicles is a torque converter lockout for mileage and so when your faced with any steep grade it’s best to keep the transmission lever in S which keeps the converter out of the equation till you crest the hill...it’s easier on the transmission. My jeep behaved exactly the same way in the hills regarding overdrive.
I friend of mine has a 4Runner and it looks like a GREAT rig! I have a Jeep Wrangler and simply love it because of one feature it has that I have seen in no other 4x4 at the moment: removable top. I have the Bestop Sunrider top and when my wife and I are out exploring, that top is OPEN and the visibility is simply amazing. There is no sunroof that can do justice to what we have with the Jeep's top off. I just love it!
Now if Toyota would do something like Ford did with the Bronco and come out with a FJ or something with a removable top, then who knows!
I've been watching your videos for awhile now, one of the only channels based close to where I live. I have not been able to get on the DBBB yet but your videos give a good indication of what it is like. Have a Tacoma now but I had a 2016 4Runner trail in past and I am with you on the transmission. I don't think the engine is truly underpowered but the transmission shift mapping is weird. There were lots of times where I wanted to accelerate, gave it some more throttle and it would shift up a gear instead of shifting down or staying in the same gear. You really have to mash the throttle to get it to move. Other than that it was a great vehicle and the roll down rear window is very cool.
I think an extra gear in the transmission would make a huge difference to the vehicle.
The DBBB is a lot of fun! It has definitely gotten tougher in the last couple of years though - not something to do alone.
Ive been going down to the DBBB for the past couple of years with an off road group. I do three to four trips a year with them. I split the trips between my 2003 Ranger Edge and my 1996 4Runner Limited.
It's definitely something worth doing.
I've never used the crawl control as an "off-road cruise control". I've only used it when stuck or when climbing and A-trac isn't cutting it. Let the crawl control work for a few minutes and it does an amazing job at get out of SOME situations.
Great review! My 1996 4Runner has 332K miles on it and has no signs of slowing down. Just gotta keep up on the maintenance which for something with this many miles on it, it's minimal. My friend's Jeep always needs to be worked on after every trip and he has half the miles and it's much newer. My 4Runner can go several weekend long trips with no issues. Yes I need to replace things more often because it's off road. I go through a steering rack every 2-3 years but that's the only issue with my 4Runner being a dedicated off-road vehicle.
3rd and 5th (and 7th in my car) gear are ‘away from yourself’ while shifting up in a manual. But I get it. It’s just one of those thing about brains. Some people just naturally want controls inverted... but that feels totally backwards to others.
Great unbiased review! I agree, its all about the best comprimise. My 4runner has been great at towing my wrangler friends after they run out of fuel. Lol
Very helpful and useful video. We have a 2015 Rav-4 AWD and are thinking about upgrading to something bigger and the 4Runner and Sequoya are at the top of our list. We don't do a lot of off overlanding but are planning on driving some of the Piute Trail System in Utah. We rented a side by side last time but I think a good 4WD is all you need for a lot of the trails.
An english man that moved to Kentucky and loves to go 4x4 packing? What in Thunder is going on here?
My wife is eyeing a 4Runner for her next vehicle. I already got my FJ and its her turn. And this would be her 4th 4Runner if she pulls the trigger. She keeps remembering our 1st 1992 4Runner when we use to tow the kids and dog on and off road just for fun. Our 1992 4Runner was a beast and occasionally see it on the road.
Hey thanks for putting this up. Loved your take on your beautiful vehicle. .
Nicely done! Proud owner of a 2018 SR5 premium here. I find the seats pretty comfortable and i like every bit of the truck but I do wish it had a V8 for a truck this size.
@Yea Ok just the get up and go is bit sluggish, if I had a option then would take a V8.
Reliability...one of the reasons I bought a 4Runner (2016) and ditched my Jeep. Have owned several Toyota's before but never a 4Runner. I agree with you it's not perfect, but when it comes to reliability I'd rather have my 4Runner in my garage, than my Jeep always in the dealership garage...always had problems with my Jeep.
Great video!!! I am looking to buy a new 4runner, your video is a great help. Thanks! Best honest review I have seen!
Love the seats
bought my 2005 sport with the 4.7. its 2wd and im perfectly fine with it since im in Texas and i owned a 2012 Taco for almost 5 years without an issue with all terrains. my other car is a 2018 wrx so 4wd aint a problem!
I have a Excursion. So everything is a bonus except the size of this dude. I have a 44 gallon tank and a v10 with 430s. I love it so much
Totally agree, thanks for your thoughts!
Great review and discussion!
I liked your review, you covered a lot of the basics and it was a good evaluation of the 4Runner; I just recently purchased a 2019 Off Road Premium.
I have had lots of other 4x4s and a major reason that I bought the 4Runner was exactly for the reason that you stated in your review. I sold my Hummer H3; which I feel was a more capable off road vehicle , but the reliability was bad and the roof leaked (which is a common problem with H3s). Nothing worse than being in the middle of no where and your vehicle won't start. I loved my H3 but the mechanical problems were too much for me.
Thank you for sharing and I am looking forward lots of off road miles in my 4Runner!
It has a better crash test, far better resale, more room inside plus tows 1500 pounds more. Plus, I got more standard features for less than the jeep. Mine is a 2022 SR5 Premium without the locker on the rear. For what the one-year-old used jeeps cost I can put a lift kit with 285s and a front and rear ARB locker on it and still be under the price of a jeep for the asking price here in Salt Lake City for a used jeep
awesome video and rig- your accent is a total trip; love it!
aussie + southern
It can never be as good as a Jeep because the Jeep has a solid front axle and the Toyota has IFS. The Humvee has both independent front and rear suspension not solid axles and would kick both the Jeep and 4Runner over-landing. I’ve ridden and driven in all three and as the best all around would choose the 4Runner every time. I own a 4Runner Trail and wouldn’t trade it. It’s no Baja vehicle but it sparks the best performance balance; though I wouldn’t mind an update to the engine and/or transmission. A 6 or 8 speed along with a turbo or better displacement to weight engine would make a good vehicle great.
Excellent unbiased review
I plan to go with a Subaru Forester myself, but I don't plan on going rock climbing either. I like the mileage of the Subaru too and the fact that's it all wheel drive all the time. I dont have to worry about engaging anything.
It's a smaller vehicle and doesn't compete with your Toyota in that class. Then again I would be alone other then my dog most of the time.
Two notes though.
1. I dont plan on buying new because of the CVT.
2. I do plan on adding a lift kit start with a 1 inch lift and decide if I need to go up to a two inch lift.
Like you said though one size doesn't fit all.
People run down the 4runner and the jeep you did the right thing and choose what you liked. Test drive a car and do your research then pick the one that fits your needs and the one you like.
Love my 2007 4th gen V8 Limited 4Runner!
I've got a 2006 4R 4.7 V-8 and I get great gas mileage. I get 20 in the city and up to 28 on the highway if I go 60 mph. Turnpike speeds will knock it down to 22 at 75-80 mph. Of course, senior citizen and not going off the road. 122,000 miles. Love my 4R
Gotta love those V8s!
You do not get 20 in the city. The v6 doesnt even do that.
@@jackdunn4463 Do you need a screenshot? I do, according to my car. I know how to drive and have had this car for 14 years. I am 71 years old, so please do not attempt to lecture me.
@@CosmicStargoat ok boomer
@@jackdunn4463 OK, kid. I have no reason or motivation to make things up. I was surprised as well.
I've been thinking about trading the Cherokee for a 4Runner. Love my Cherokee but would like something bigger. The thing that gives me pause is I hear a lot about a lack of acceleration. Great video!
I've you're coming from an XJ Cherokee then you have nothing to worry about with acceleration - the 4Runner will feel fast! I had a 5.7 liter Grand Cherokee before, so the difference is pretty noticeable!
Depending on budget, if you go the 4runner route, the magnusson (spelling) supercharger is a great aftermarket addition. However it isn't cheap at around 10K including install. I've read up on it though and watched a few videos and it seems like a really good upgrade if you have the budget for it.
That gets to be a little over my budget. Thanks for the idea though.
Nice truck! Good review. I'm planning for a 2020 4Runner Limited next year.
Great review! I’ve been looking for one for a month and I recently started looking at JGCs bc they are cheaper and smother on the highway but I am in the market for a ten plus year older one so I’ll stick with the 4Runner search now. There are a few high mileage gen 4s my way for 8-10k. Jeeps are 6-8k.
I have a TRD Off Road and put the Magnuson supercharger in it.. It gave her the power it seems it should have.. I find crawl control good for sand, but never use it myself.. Jeep Grand Cherokees are all independent suspension and can't articulate as good as a 4Runner, and wheel lifted more so was not as good off road as the 4Runner.. The Grand Cherokee was my first SUV.. I absolutely love the 4Runner in comparison.
The WK has solid axles. The WK2 (latest model) has IFS IRS
Great video. Fyi my stock 2020 SR5 4runner can go almost 400 miles on a tank of gas. It's amazing
Great vid!! Just found your channel It's funny. I switched from a Wrangler to a TRD offroad 4R. The Jeep was great but was in the shop with issues after 15k miles. I have had both in Moab and now question the Jeep was better offroad. But I still did it and just had to use great spotters
Great Video! I sold my Tacoma and I was torn between a 4runner and an Xterra. Both were great vehicles but I ended up buying the Nissan mainly due to its smaller size for more power and off roading capabilities and the ability to swap suspension parts from a titan including the V8. You can't go wrong with either make or model if you don't need dual solid axles like a wrangler.
Solid choice! They're definitely underrated vehicle. The only downside I can think of is the lack of aftermarket support. V8 swap sounds really cool though!
I bought a Nissan Xterra Pro 4X brand new in 2014. I traded it in 7 months later. Absolutely hated everything about it except how it drove on the street. It had the off-road ability of a tricycle! First time I took it gently through a foot of water the whole front clip fell off along with several other cheap parts held on with plastic push pins! Top of the line 4x4 with no lockers, no nuthin......
After that I've been with Toyota ever since. Love my Tacoma TRD off road! It's apples and oranges!
@@GATORADDAM cool story...you obviously did not a own an Xterra pro4x since they come with a standard dana 44 rear e locker and your story is fake since I run a nissan off road group now with many factory xterras that have no issues off roading here in the sierras.
@@RevereOverland The support has really picked up in the last 5 years for NIssans since the Titan swap became popular.
@@scott8238
Yep. I just to around making shit up! I could prove it to you or course, but I really don't care what you believe! Have a great time in your Nissan.
We are Gen. III 4 Runner owners; 2000 SR5 with 225,000 miles, 5 speed no issues and in excellent condition. There is a chance we will off our 2016 Tundra and or our 2018 Highlander LTD for a new 2020 4 Runner. sometime late spring or summer. We will keep the 2000 and modify it for off road and bicycle hauler. PS.. We have owned 5 Land Rovers, 58/61/64, 67 NADA 109, a 75.. and a 1969 FJ..... these are serious off road vehicles ( no cup holders)
great review and very honest...great work.
I recently purchased a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. While I considered a Jeep, the reliability issue made me choose the Tacoma. I added a canopy, and will be removing the rear seats, which will give me more room than a Jeep. I really like Jeep’s, but they really need to work on their reliability issue.
Crawl control is incredible in the sand. Its been of great use if you know how to make use of it. Without lockers its one of the best systems to use in low range just being gentle on the gas. If it has to be a case of driving hard or spinning the tires, crawl control would obviously not be able to help. That's not the kind of wheeling I do so it makes no difference to me.
Reliability wise I can say my GX has been bulletproof. I am very cautious though and I don't beat on my vehicle. 200k miles with literally no issues. The issues I have had were down to how old the truck was. Airbags going out was expected at 180k when they're OEM. Fluids get old and need to be changed. Had one boot rip on a CV. Besides that maintenance was it.
"At no point when you're changing up do you push it away from yourself"
Ermmm in any H pattern shifter you change up a gear by pulling the gear towards you or by PUSHING it away from you, it just depends on what gears you're shifting between. E.g. 2nd to 3rd and 4th to 5th are PUSH.
You don’t push completely away from yourself 2nd to 3rd. It’s a two part movement. As someone who has spent more of their life driving manuals than automatics, it feels unnatural using the Toyota setup. It’s also opposite from race and rally cars, which are setup to pull towards yourself when accelerating, and push away when slowing. That way you’re working with the forces of acceleration and braking.
@@RevereOverland How often are you changing the gears on your automatic? I don't overland yet, so I never need to take mine out of drive.
Tim exactly what I thought, well said.👍
I have had two cars with a 'dog leg' first...
the Sunbeam was the best,
but it can give you a shock at the 🚦 lights if your mind drifts 😲
very true review, a Prado owner from asia.
Excellent review, totally honest for a change! I have a '17 Offroad w/KDSS and a fairly modest +2" lift, 40K miles. As others have noted, KDSS works as advertised, the articulation offroad is amazing, my brother and spotter takes a lot of photos. Agreed, KDSS is expensive to repair, I wouldn't want it on an older used vehicle. Yes, the cruise control is worthless unless you enjoy screaming the engine at 3K going uphill. I only use it on level ground. If you can carefully push down just enough to get the torque converter to unlock for about 300 add'l rpms it will pull most significant hills. Yes, it's totally a compromise all around, but the most capable vehicle is worthless if it isn't reliable. Especially out west where you can easily be 20 to 50 miles from civilization on BLM land. And to answer the question below, my 4R's been up and down Elephant Hill and through Devil's Kitchen, also up Crown King back road without issue or mishap, then listen to satellite radio in a quiet cabin on the trip home. An impressive vehicle for sure!
I'm thinking about getting a 4runner, and with that said from a lot of reviews I think I'll have to buy a sprint booster within the first week-month of owning it if power really is sluggish. That's something hard to gauge when the dealer has a very small test lap.
Might be worth finding a new dealer! It’s not horrible, but most people are used to a V8 in a vehicle that size.
@@RevereOverland That's the only reason I looked at a Tahoe because they have a V8 around the same price as a TRD Pro, but that feels so much like a car for people who have at least 4 kids and volunteer to do field trips for the school lol.
Excellent and honest review
Thank you !!!
Nice video. I traded from a Grand Cherokee to a Toyota also. Far better vehicle in my opinion - even off road. (I got the Sequoia with 5.7L V8). I've had it through water, mud, and sand recently where the Wrangler on the trip got stuck. Mine didn't even wheelspin. Toyota knows 4x4. I don't have crawl control, so I cant comment on that. The IFS part of my truck doesn't bother me at all. Lots of people like live axles, but I haven't found a situation yet where IFS hurt me. Great job on the review!
I drove my 04 Grand Cherokee Limited to the ground and now I'm on my 2016 4runner, only wish it has better MPG, but then again, there is no perfect vehicle.
I've loved my 4runners. I do wish they made a manual version.
Good review. You must be shaped strangely, had 3 4RUNNERs, seats comfy. Just made 800 mile trip last month, don't like or need lumbar support, adjust it!
I absolutely love my 4runner .....the Ford bronco will be interesting to see what it does to the jeep line up
I loved the seats on my 2014 trail version that was the same color as yours. Think it's slate. I ended up going back to my FJ cruiser because I found that being a big old boy 6'4 300 the fj had more leg and arm room. But overall I agree with you on a lot of your points. Try adding a good exhaust system it helped some with my FJ feel like I have better low end torque.
Thanks for that review!
Buy and install the pedal commander. It helps with perfomance.
if you like the 4runner, you will love the land cruiser, I recommend a 96, 97 if you can get it with lockers will be even better, expensive, but worth it, and I know they are older, but they are better made.. another older one would be a 05-09 v8 4runner. you will be surprised how good these 2 other options are even better than the 1 you have. they are not economical by any means but they are worth every penny. and congrats on your trail edition. you will have many years of reliability. if you are ever in Europe or South America, they have the Diesel ones.. that is a better motor. but very rare in the USA.
I think a Land Cruiser is in my future!
This was a good review. Was even better when I played it at 1.25x. At that speed you sound normal, lol
I should just start speeding up my videos in production!
Enjoyed this. Learned a lot. I was dreaming of the day I'd be able to afford the Mercedes Benz 4x4 Sprinter.... or the Tesla CyberTruck.... I know stupid. What about a 4Runner? Duh. So I figure to buy a used 4Runner, but then I read, don't get a 2003, don't get the V8-- rubber timing belt... So I've found a bunch with 200k miles. Not too expensive. Next step is well, which one??? I don't mind buying an older one, but I also don't want to drive around with a case of oil and 50 extra gallons of water for the radiator. And I don't mind fixing a few things, I just don't want to find out what always needs replacing by 200k before I'm on the wrong side of Moab.
3rd Gen is where it’s at! :D
I love the look of the 3rd gen