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We've NEVER had a traction issue in the GX460. Its will take you anywhere. KDSS is a genius hydraulic sway bar disconnect that significantly increases offroad articulation. Wheel slip is DESIRABLE in many conditions, snow, mud, soft sand. GX defaults to TRAC in 4H and ATRAC in 4L. TRAC is like an LSD. ATRAC is like a locker. The system is phenomenal. These are Landcruiser Prados.
People, listen to this man. He has real-world experience with the GX and a really cool channel (shameless plug). Very knowledgeable and a nice guy too! Love the content my dude.
me too because what we don't know is how much better these two vehicles perfrom vs. a typical Acura / Honda or Kia / Hyundai for example. Maybe they aren't noticeably better
@@joshharrison1160 it would be difficult to numberize a score for something like this because you have pass/fail for each version of the test but you also have the difficulty / speed/ lurching factor as well. also keep in mind this is on completely flat ground. as soon as you put the vehicle on a slope the results could be completely different. (potentially )
@@BassRacerx yah. It would need to take into account how much rotation of the rollers before movement too and throttle needs to standardized in some way.
What I like about a center differential is that if youre offroading and need to make a sharp turn but still need better traction than 2wd you can just unlock the center diff and make a full lock turn with no binding and pushing. With a chain drive even off pavement there is going to be binding of the drivetrain and the turning radius is reduced becasue of the binding up of the drivetrain.
I love that I can be in low range unlocked. I've done it a bunch of times for obstacles that require turning the wheel alot. I wish more 4x4s could do that
@Phil D yeah, with the center unlocked you can take really sharp turns without coming out of low range. Super hard core guys actually have a front disconnect lever so they can turn the steering wheel in really hard situations without coming out of low range.
@@-Jethro- but how do you lock the front and rear together as left or rignt? In my limited experience with electric man lifts and forklifts the wheel with the least traction gets all of the power. Granted these were electric driven hydraulic pumps on the man lift but how do you male all 4 wheels turn on an electric vehicle with 4 independent motors? Because once one wheel loses traction that motor requires less power to spin, thus there isn't enough given to the others to give them enough power, unless each wheel has its own separate power supply. Every electric 4wd with independent motors ive seen rely on traction control. Dual motors (front and rear) can be locked with a center diff and also be locked left to right via the Differential lock.
You guys do more tests than any other website that I know. That is why I watch you guys 4X/day. When I was a kid in the 1980's & 1990's, I would have to drive 15 miles to the University to read all of the car magazines. Now, I can read it all from home. No gas. No time..
My 2011 4Runner Trail has everything the Lexus does at that time.....the KDSS, the whole ball of wax. Thing is pretty much unstoppable off road AND incredible reliability.
For folks who are interested: We did film this *right* before Lexus teased the new GX...it's only been 14 years 😆. Find out more about that here: tflcar.com/2023/05/2024-lexus-gx-teaser-may-news/
You guys REALLY need to get your hands on a 4Runner Limited for these tests. The Limited uses a Torsen Center Differential (the only 4Runner Model to use one) for its full time 4-Wheel Drive System. The beauty of the torsen is that not only is it a fully mechanical gear system (and incredibly reliable) but the Torsen is designed to automatically lock itself in the case of one axle getting more power due to slippage. This is great for bad weather as you can leave the center differential unlocked 99% and let it lock itself as conditions dictate. I own a 2020 Limited and I have locked the system into 4-Wheel Locked maybe a dozen times, and this is living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where our winters are brutal and can dump 24" of snow on you without warning.
@@FatalAnimal I owned the 2020 Limited for 2 years and loved it, then traded up to the GX - the GX is more popular because, for most folks, the V8, 6 speed auto and KDSS are worth the price difference between the two models. It certainly makes for a more refined and powerful drive.
For winter driving, give me the full time 4wd of the GX or 4Runner Limited anytime. Much easier to live with with no binding on the road and if you get stuck at low speed, you just lock the center diff.
The full time torsen 4wd is the best I’ve ever had. Even when I go off-road I rarely find myself needing to lock the center diff. And not needing to think about 4wd is also nice when the weather can change quick.
Morale of the story is Toyota/Lexus make great traction control systems and it makes light off-roading easy. The A-Trac system is an EZ button that makes even the most inexperienced driver extremely capable in most light off road situations with just the stock set up. It's why it hasn't changed and is still relevant.
I'm sure I've been beaten to the punch but the center diff in the gx is not open, its a Torsen Type-C with a 40:60 nominal bias. It's got a relatively mild torque bias ratio - 1.86:1 if I remember. So its super good for on-road handling, but not so great on rollers. I find that I rarely have to lock up the center, unless I know I will be spinning wheels. Of course the other issue with the GX is that in high range TRAC and VSC is active, as well as throttle modulation. In low ATRAC is engaged, but throttle control and VSC is off which makes a huge difference to something like a roller test.
Great video! I have a 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Lexus GX470 in N.A.) that only has ABS, but no traction control. It does, however, have full-time 4WD with low range and a locking Torsen transfer case and I have never been stuck on the trails that I frequent. Love the Toyota/Lexus products. Just as an aside, the past tense of "spin" is "spun" not "span."
The KDSS on that GX460 helps wayyyy more than you think. Just having the additional articulation keeping tires on the ground keeps you out of a lot of sticky situations. My ‘15 Land Cruiser had it and the articulation was a massive advantage.
I am on my second 4Runner (5th gen trd off road) I have to say an sr5 4wd is all you need. Super budget build was 5100’s all the way around. 2.5 lift in the front and 1.5” lift with spacer in the rear. It retains the stock springs while beefing up the suspension. I installed Bridgestone revo 3’s in the stock size. Went on a road trip with 4 adults with all of our stuff including heavy ice chest. Handled on and off road like a champ! I know there are better systems out there but it was so good I thought “why”? Fast forward I have a trd off road with a 3/2 lift and 285’s from the dealer. Kdss is installed. They put spacers in. I plan on swapping out the stock shocks with 5100’s again.
I've been trying to explain to my buddy what a locking torsen center diff does for for you vs 2WD->4WD->2WD, gonna send him this video, my Limited 4Runner has the same system as the Lexus and I'm convinced it's superior in the vast majority of road and trail conditions.
@@nismo370z4 exactly and as a Land Rover owner I honestly think part time is better because you don't have all those moving Parts turning while you're going down the road for no reason and just extra stuff that needs grease and can wear out quicker. Mine has an open Center diff that can lock and traction control that is always on and pretty aggressive. Land Rover Discovery 2. Seems like a Torsen Center diff would have been good for the not lockable models that Land Rover produced but most people just got the center diff lock option later if it didn't have it
@@ronaldrrootiii6040 So are you suggesting that a GX/Prado or a Land Cruiser will "wear out" sooner that a Disco? I'm not sure reality bears out that claim.
This video highlights why I bought a 2013 in 2020. Better approach angle and better price. Then, I spend $650 and took 2.5 hours installing MTS and Crawl Control. It is a game changer and Ive taken this thing anywhere you can imagine including sand dunes.
Every GX460 comes equipped with KDSS which improves slow-speed off-road articulation - and - on road stability. Only specific trim levels of the 4Runnner may be optioned with KDSS: Off-Road Premium for example. You can see the articulation difference in the Video.
We went with the GX when we bought it in 2017 because the mpg difference wasn’t that big. I regularly get 15-16mpg in the city and my dads 4Runner is at about 16-17.
My wife's 2010 GX 460 gets 18 city and 20 highway driving with economy in mind. A friend of mine has a 19 4runner TRD sport and it gets 1-2 mpg lower city/highway. Due to buying premo gas we end about the same when it comes to cost
I absolutely love both of these trucks. I shopped both (last year) on the used market, and found GX’s to be the better value (actually cheaper after some years/miles). I ended up with a ‘13, partly due to the better angles (bumpers aren’t as low). With no mods, it’s done an amazing job off-road. I will add the multi-terrain module at some point, but don’t really need it. I feel like you can’t go wrong with either vehicle (assuming 4wd capability is on your priority list).
Gx460 owner chiming in. You ready to get your mind blown? If the traction in the GX wasn’t awesome enough ..I added MTS to mine from a company out of Boston, Ma called Blauparts. I believe they cater more towards VW Volvo etc. but for some reason they dabble in GX aftermarket too. Your freakin GX will go anywhere with center diff lock and MTS. It’s bonkers really how capable something is from the factory-ish. Cool review and an awesome channel. Great work guys, been so much fun watching it evolve over the years!
I have a GX470 that we took the running boards off of and it has a set of TRD Pro wheels and Toyo Open Country ATs. The 4.7 V8 has plenty of power and it has great approach and departure angles. It's got great road manners and tons of off-road capabilities.
Love these vehicles. I have a 2011 4Runner limited. Same/similar system as the Lexus GX. It’s an incredible vehicle. Hauls the family comfortably everywhere. Great on road in winter. Great off-road when adventure calls. Tows my small 23ft camper just fine. Has plenty of power and decent mileage. It’s just so dang reliable. I’d be fine to drive this thing forever. And I just might. Go get you one if you haven’t already.
That's why I bought the 2023 4Runner Limited AWD, the best of both world, GX 4WD technology at a price of a 4Runner! I average 19MPG after 10,000 miles.
I'll never understand why so many 4wd vehicles have so much front-end trim so close to the ground. If you're heading out in snow, you risk damaging it. Love my 4R TRD Pro, nothing low to the ground.
The GX still has the typical luxury vehicle depreciation, so you can find less than 5 year old GX460s with fairly low miles for under 40k. IMHO buy a clean, used GX460, then install aftermarket off road bumpers and rock rails, and yes the GX460 actually has a decent aftermarket for off road stuff. A-TRAC just looks like a simplified version of MTS. MTS is also off road traction control, just with 5 settings instead of one.
Atrac is much older than MTS and also a different system. Also, the suspension parts are the same on the GX and 4runners. My GX is on icons and 34s. Love this thing! Just delete kdss if you lift it. Thank me later.
The 4th gen 4runner is the real unicorn of drivetrains. 2wd, awd, part time 4wd, AWD Lo, and part time 4lo. I don't know of any other vehicle that can do this. (And yes, full time 4wd is the same as AWD. But a clutch based 4 auto is not a true AWD system)
Nice! Awesome slip test, that confirms my experience, I know full time 4WD term is often used, but this is how I would describe the difference between AWD, step up to 4WD, and the final step up to ATRAC, which is the Toyota e-lockers. On my GX, you go between the AWD and ATRAC with the center diff lock. The time you are 4WD without ATRAC is when you have emissions codes on your dash. Best to keep an OBDII handy in case you need to clear codes.
We got my wife this exact GX blackline package and I have a 2021 4 runner limited. Both loving them and 100% reliability so far. That GX is a bargain compared to the competition, you'll pay the difference in gas though.. 😂
@@packhorse5430 They claim that it does to hit EPA numbers, same as the LX. In reality, I can't tell a difference running regular in my LXs. Same engine as the Toyota badged LCs, so....
The GX will be the next group of vehicles that get mods. I’ve put a lift on mine and bigger tires and it’s sufficient on everything off road I would care to do. Sure in stock form it’s not for the clearance of a 4 runner, but new aftermarket springs and adjustable shocks and more aggressive tires make a huge difference and easy on the budget.
My thoughts after owning a 2008 GX470, 2017 4runner TRD OR, and 2014 GX460. Of the three, my son and I prefer the GX470 overall. The 2017 4runner is a TRD OR model that is non-KDSS. I mostly run moderate trails in it, but I've done 2-3 difficult trails out in Colorado. The lack of KDSS never slowed me down and I had no issues. What I do notice is that the lack of KDSS makes the vehicle a little more loose in the turns, but nothing scary in my opinion. The GX460 has KDSS, and a 5in lift with 33" tires, diff drop etc. I like the comfort of the interior. but hate that the AC controls are touch screen. The GX460 feels VERY wide compared to the 4runner. On Alabama tight woods trails it does not give a feeling of confidence as the vehicle just feels much bigger. The 4.6 V8 is also a little dissapointing compared to the GX470. The throttle response is disconnected and there just doesnt seem to be much torque for a V8 (maybe it's the weight of the vehicle that also hampers it). Now the GX470 seems to have the best engine as far as HP and torque. It also feels much smaller on the trails while still being just as comfortable as the 5th gen 4runner. The GX470 that we had was non-KDSS and seemd to float a little in turns until we upgraded it to an Eibach Pro lift kit. The ride after that was night and day, and again we did not have issues on trails and there was no missing the KDSS. The KDSS in my opinion is great for a vehicle that will mostly be on the road 90%, and where a high lift is not desired. Once you swap out the factory struts and shocks you really do not need KDSS and the extra expense that it brings to lifting the vehicle. There is a myth that the KDSS systems are bullit proof and never never have issues, that is not true. My son is a Toyota technician, and they have to fix KDSS systems that fail, not that they fail often, but it does happen sometimes. Therefore I prefer to just not have one more system to have to worry about or even think about when modifying the vehicle. One more thing, the 5th gen 4runner has the best aftermarket support, to some that is a big plus. Both the 470 and 460 are limited in aftermarket front and rear bumper selections. We are having a custom one made for the 460 because we really did not like the ones on the market and the selection was slim. Hope this helps someone decide on a route or vehicle to purchase.
GX470s are great but good luck finding one in good shape. The ones you find at used car lots are usually clunkers. You’d just have to get lucky finding one at a Lexus dealership or a private seller that’s the original owner. I gave up looking for a 470 and went for a 460. Also worth noting KDSS was somewhat rare on the 470 but is standard on the 460, and you can get a 460 with no air suspension which is a huge plus. I’m a Toyota technician as well and I’ve yet to see KDSS fail. In my opinion it is bullet proof. X-REAS on the other hand is a nightmare.
I rented a 2010 prado turbodiesel for a couple weeks around 2010. I own a 2022 4runner. I used to drive a 2000 diesel hilux with IFS . The 4 runner reminds me of the hilux more than the prado. Prado from memory was more aloof 4 runner is way better for cargo. I had rav4s at the time i drove the prado and the rav4 could carry as much cargo.
Great video but you’re wrong about 1 thing. The GX didn’t get its traction control and other aids from the lessons learned of the 4Runner and etc. Instead, they got it from the GX. The GX is after all, the Land Cruiser Prado. It doesn’t have an “A-Trac” button because it’s automatic on all GXs and works in 4-high as well. Not to mention the (standard on a GXs) KDSS was working wonders on the trail. The biggest difference between the GX and the 4Runner is that the GX can be had with absolutely all of the tools Toyota has (KDSS, center differential locks, full time 4WD, A-Trac, multi-terrain select, crawl control, and etc.) but no 4Runner can have all of it. Having all of it is what makes a Land Cruiser Prado (and GX) what they are. The 4Runner is truly amazing but it ain’t no Land Cruiser. The 4Runner will always be the little brother to the Land Cruiser (GX).
@@ephraker you’re right but only for the 2009-2020…or up to whatever year until they changed the infotainment system. After that, you can’t add the crawl control and MTS.
Yeah people say the GX is the lexafied 4Runner when it’s more like the opposite. It’s the Prado, same full time LC 4wd. 4Runner and FJ are based off IT, and since many aren’t even part time 4wd, they are a watered down version.
Crazy thing is if you look at like a 2018, both the 4Runner and GX are practically the same price now used. Hard to pass on the little extra luxury when it is almost priced like a base SR5.
I'm looking right now and agree. What I'm finding though is the GX is a V8 which is fine in itself, but it also seems to require premium. That's a tough combo for the pocketbook putting the 4Runner ahead I think.
I think part of that price similarity is GX not having the "Toyota" or "4runner" badge. Even though it says manufactured by Toyota motor Co in Japan in the door on both, more people know what the 4R is but not know as much about Toyota and the rest of what they make
FWIW, the 4th gen 4runner V8 has the same Torsen center diff AWD system. So far I've never found a situation that ATRAC couldn't handle, up to the limits of traction. One mistake people often make with it though, is not maintaining steady throttle. It just needs a few moments to understand what's going on before it is fully active. If you let off the throttle, it has to start over.
Agree with everything said here except the price. A Sr5 with cloth seats new is more like 46K, and if you get some of the small upgrades like led interior lights, and phone charger package your at 47,500. This atleast is the price before dealer mark ups in North Carolina. I wish it was high 30s, even the 2 wheel drive base is 42900.
To dealers that done do dealer mark up. I bought my 4 runner in Richmond va last year 4x4 sr5 for 40k even. They are out there but have to work to find it
Makes me curious about my pre-A-Trac 4x4 system in my '02 Sequoia. I've put it in 4Hi for snow/ice and gravel roads, but never really needed anything more than that. I know it does have 4Lo and a center locker, but I've never been in any situations that called for me to use it. It just laughs at me when I try to challenge it.
16:00 I learned what the GX platform can do off road with our 2008 GX 470. That’s why we also bought a 2019 GX 460;with 23,000 miles a year ago. Both wonderful vehicles in all sorts of mud, rain, snow or any combination of all 3. Also real world MPG of 18-19
Great vehicles. I have a new Land Cruiser prado and it is full time 4WD with low range and centre locker. You can drive in 4L with or without the locker making it easier to do sharp turns while still staying in 4L. Not having to change between 2H and 4H Is great, but it does drink more diesel being fulltime 4WD. Its nice to have a real mechanical locker not some pretend locker like a lot of cars have nowadays. Easy to know if you have a real mechanical locker or a false one. The car will judder and be difficult to turn sharp when on dry roads when the locker is engaged.
I had my 2011 SR5 in a situation over the weekend where there were large water ruts through the center of an off road trail. I tried to cross the ruts and had a at least one wheel in the air. I was in 4 low but just spun my tires (Grabber ATXs) . I pressed the A trac button and within a few seconds it grabbed and o crossed the crack that was about 2 feet deep. It works in real life.
Thanks Tommy. The LC 150 GX which the Lexus GX is based on is simular with the Lexus in most things such as KDSS, but has lockers also at the rear axel with air suspension. Best wishes from Norway
A locker is like a firearm. Better to have it and not need to than need it and not have it. Although, you can usually avoid getting into situations where you need it by taking smart lines and having a winch.
Be careful locking that center differential on the GX if you are driving at any significant speed on ice or slippery snow. Generally speaking, you are ok if you break traction with two wheels. But when you only have one wheel with traction, that can be bad.
One thing its for sure you no need to spend money on a M.-B. G. Klasse! This two are enough! At least from my p.o.v.! Good video young one, keep up the good work!
I love both. Initially I was shopping for a GX. I ended driving a 4Runner and got that instead. Although the dream is to have both. So it’s still a goal
I have one of the rare full time 4WD Tahoes with 4 Lo option on my 2005 Tahoe. It is amazing in the snow. It’s the Borg Warner 4482. It has full time 4WD (60:40 split) and the 4 Lo button that allows the center diff to lock it to 50:50 torque split. But it has no 2WD option. Sometimes I wish I had the standard transfer case. But, it’s a very unique setup for sure. It’s a similar transfer case to the Borg Warner in the Hummers (BW4484) but mine lacks the 4 Hi (locked center diff) option.
@12:20 Exactly why 4Runner Limited got the ticket for my wife over the Lexus GX460. Way better ground clearance, standard skid plates including full fuel tank skid, better fuel range with V6 and 23gal tank combo, and many other good stuff including that legendary 1GR-FE engine used on so many Toyota's which is even available on big Land cruiser 300 or even Lexus GX outside USA . Wish I had the newer 4Runner with blind spot monitoring, 360 camera, heated steering and all that jazz newer 4Runner have. Wish TFL was near by to give the Limited and TRD Pro so you have 4Runner electronic part-time 4wd vs 4Runer manual part-time 4wd vs 4Runner full-time 4wd vs Gx full-time 4wd.
By seeing some of the comments about KDSS I wanted share my take on it. Not having KDSS was my choice for better reliability, better comfort on rough roads/ trails.
I had a new 4Runner loaner while my 2008 GX 470 in for service at Toyota. I could never drive a 4Runner. Despite being a 2023 it felt so cheap. And that v6 was just sad. Nope, I’d rather drive an old GX than a new 4Runner.
funny you say that, i also have a 2008 GX. Driving my dads 2018 4Runner SR5 felt very rugged. Not too smooth, engine sounded course, can feel the transmission shift. High up dashboard
You guys are funny, silly boys, lexus are for ladies😂 Just like my wife has the lexus and says EXACTLY the same. I can drive both, but at least one is going to get the job done that is actually made for 😂😂😂
Excellent video! Last year drove a rental 4Runner at Vail on an icy round about in 4WD. Got her sideways but no real issues. Drove my 2020 Subey WRX with 6M on winters at Jay Peak VT this year during a snow storm up a 12% grade, and got her a bit sideways on the downhill. On the road you want be in a WRX, and sadly I can't own both
The reason the current GX 460 has so much plastic on the front of it is because of Car tubers like you that are incessantly complaining about needing new updates on the vehicles. That’s not the formula for Toyota and Lexus. They find some thing that works and stick with it. The 2010 through 2013 GX 460 did not have all that plastic on the front but we needed to change, right! Now look at it. And we are about to lose the V-8 as well. In the name of progress! Good job guys!
So Toyota told you that "Car tubers" made them redesign the front end of the GX460? Interesting. I just figured they did a front facia update like most manufacturers do at the 4-5 year point.
Enjoyed that but can you add a video showing the underbodies axle/differential layout and how the two systems physically/mechanically are differentiated?
Great video as always!!! I would like to see the slip test done on a 4th gen 4runner limited the one with the center diff lock and select-able 4wd. I had a 2007 and was able to treat it just like it was awd and not 4wd in the winter then in the summer would just leave it on 2wd. Was a great feature wish the 4runner would have kept that in the new generations.
When I was looking for bigger car for my family I considered Lexus RX 450h, but after looking at reviews I dismissed it. The hybrid 4x4 is almost useless in difficult conditions. Also IIRC the non-hybrid version wasn't that good either. The potential is there but not implemented well. LX is probably much better but the price is also much higher.
Hi @tflcar, just a correction. The center diff is not an open one, but a limited slip one. So it multiplies the torque available on the axle with the least traction by a factor, something like 3x for example. So if the traction on the axle is 0, multiply by 3, it’s still zero. In reality that’s never the case in the real world, so you always have some traction going to both axles.
Great video! And very informative. I own a 2019 4runner Limited with the center locking Torsen differential. This is an awesome setup with the full time 4WD and ability to lock it into traditional 4WD High or Low. Throw in the Active Trac...and you have an amazing vehicle. IMHO the Limited is the best trim on the 4runner.
Bought a 21 4runner SR5 and that same day I bought the truck I took it to the beach and found myself pulling out jeeps and Ford's with no issue because of that A-track keeping traction even on the sand!!!
Great job explaining the different traction approaches. Thoughts on waiting for the 2024 GX550 over the 2023 GX460...would you wait? Not generally good to buy the first year of a remodel...but in this case? Will the current GX460s maintain their usually solid resale value or drop considerably with the release of the new GX550s? Thanks.
Consider this, no more V8s… I think the resale will remain solid. People love NA V8s, yeah everyone knows the gas mileage sucks but that sound and butter smooth power-train is now lost.
You are correct never buy a first year model or major update. Let the early adopters sort out the issues and deal with the heartaches. Another thing to think about is how much wheeling (offroading) will you be doing? The GX550 looks much bigger and heavier, thats not always a great thing on the trails.
@@RysterARCEE For sure haha, I live in california, if you can even find a base model SR5 4x4 for sale, you are looking at about a minimum $47000 OTD after taxes and fees. And that is with no mark up, also hard to find. Ide buy 2 if I could find them for mid 30s OTD lol.
The more I hear about the turbo 4 cylinders and the recalls on the turbo 6's, the more I'm thinking of picking up a nice used Gx460 with the bulletproof 4.6L v8... Put a stealth winch front bumper on it, a low profile rear bumper and rock sliders on the sides.
I have owned every North American vehicle that uses this platform (FJ Cruiser, 5th gen 4Runner and GX). As an overland platform, the GX and 4Runner are unrivaled! What they lack in most advanced interior tech, they make up for with 25 year service life potential and excellent off road capability! I have a supercharged 2019 4Runner TRD Off Road! I have been dying for someone to release something that will be the proper replacement for my 4Runner. I have tried the Defender, but that breaks and wheel lifts like a car. The design of the current GX makes it harder to mod for hardcore off road use and the heavier V8 will lead to issues, if you don't account for it. Also, as a "luxury" vehicle, the GX's outdated tech left me unsatisfied. However lol, they are unveiling the new GX in a week and I already want it! It will have the same 3.4 twin turbo V6 as the 300 Series and Tundra etc, but be tuned for less power.. That will make it even more reliable than the 300 Series! It will have a more off road worthy model offering, a lighter engine and modern interior technology! I'm so excited for the next GX! It will be the first vehicle worth retiring my 4Runner and curing my 5th gen 4Runner addiction 🤣
"More reliable than 300 series"... 😂😂 Meanwhile the 3.4 in 100,000 Tundras was recalled due to machining debris which can cause crankshaft main bearing failure. Oh the irony.
@@I_dont_read_responses The GX550 and 300 Series use the exact same engine and are manufactured in Japan. The GX550's engine is tuned down to have less power than the 300, so will be more reliable. I'm not sure what the American built Tundra has to do with the Japanese built 300 Series, or the GX550. Every manufacturer has recalls, regularly. New platforms are most prone to recalls. Maybe you are 16 and just learned about recalls? Toyota has had bigger recalls, as have other manufacturers. I drove my new GX550 from Utah, USA, to Vancouver Canada, and back. Counting detours was over 2500 miles The 300 Series and GX550 will be the most reliable current gen SUVs.
I’ve take a bone stock with good tires only, bmw x5 g05 to Moab many times never had any issues 🤷🏾♀️ fins and things and not only the east lines. People your vehicles might be more capable than you realize.
So, what we learned here is that the distinguishing factor are the engine & luxury feature between the Lexus & 4Runner. But factoring in the 4WD system only, it's not worth spending the extra money. 4RUNNER is the winner!
You need the locker when spinning up loose stuff. If the terrain is grippy, TC is enough to keep your rolling with a wheel or 2 off the ground. Toyota does it well.
They do make a stripped down version, it's called the Land Cruiser Prado - which is sold the world over except North America. It is the vehicle that the 4Runner, FJ, and Tacoma is based on, not the other way around.
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We've NEVER had a traction issue in the GX460. Its will take you anywhere. KDSS is a genius hydraulic sway bar disconnect that significantly increases offroad articulation. Wheel slip is DESIRABLE in many conditions, snow, mud, soft sand. GX defaults to TRAC in 4H and ATRAC in 4L. TRAC is like an LSD. ATRAC is like a locker. The system is phenomenal. These are Landcruiser Prados.
People, listen to this man. He has real-world experience with the GX and a really cool channel (shameless plug). Very knowledgeable and a nice guy too!
Love the content my dude.
Yes but atrac won't let you do all that going FAST like up a sandy hill climb. Do you know how to disable it?
Their land cruiser prados with a suit and tie that require premium fuel, the name plate land cruiser prado that drinks regular is coming to USA
@@PhaedruS007 atrac is not enabled on 4h only 4l
@@dannycruz2022 not true on the 470
I would like to see some sort of a leaderboard for the slip test, like rank the vehicles and put it into a list of sorts
me too because what we don't know is how much better these two vehicles perfrom vs. a typical Acura / Honda or Kia / Hyundai for example. Maybe they aren't noticeably better
Same.
Yeah, would be useful.
@@joshharrison1160 it would be difficult to numberize a score for something like this because you have pass/fail for each version of the test but you also have the difficulty / speed/ lurching factor as well. also keep in mind this is on completely flat ground. as soon as you put the vehicle on a slope the results could be completely different. (potentially )
@@BassRacerx yah. It would need to take into account how much rotation of the rollers before movement too and throttle needs to standardized in some way.
What I like about a center differential is that if youre offroading and need to make a sharp turn but still need better traction than 2wd you can just unlock the center diff and make a full lock turn with no binding and pushing. With a chain drive even off pavement there is going to be binding of the drivetrain and the turning radius is reduced becasue of the binding up of the drivetrain.
I love that I can be in low range unlocked. I've done it a bunch of times for obstacles that require turning the wheel alot.
I wish more 4x4s could do that
Interesting concept. I never thought there was a real advantage to these types of unlockable center diffs, other than efficiency.
Or just use two (or four) independent electric motors. AWD / 4WD with no binding.
@Phil D yeah, with the center unlocked you can take really sharp turns without coming out of low range. Super hard core guys actually have a front disconnect lever so they can turn the steering wheel in really hard situations without coming out of low range.
@@-Jethro- but how do you lock the front and rear together as left or rignt? In my limited experience with electric man lifts and forklifts the wheel with the least traction gets all of the power. Granted these were electric driven hydraulic pumps on the man lift but how do you male all 4 wheels turn on an electric vehicle with 4 independent motors? Because once one wheel loses traction that motor requires less power to spin, thus there isn't enough given to the others to give them enough power, unless each wheel has its own separate power supply. Every electric 4wd with independent motors ive seen rely on traction control. Dual motors (front and rear) can be locked with a center diff and also be locked left to right via the Differential lock.
Thank you. I never get tired of watching 4Runner videos.
You guys do more tests than any other website that I know. That is why I watch you guys 4X/day. When I was a kid in the 1980's & 1990's, I would have to drive 15 miles to the University to read all of the car magazines. Now, I can read it all from home. No gas. No time..
My 2011 4Runner Trail has everything the Lexus does at that time.....the KDSS, the whole ball of wax. Thing is pretty much unstoppable off road AND incredible reliability.
For folks who are interested: We did film this *right* before Lexus teased the new GX...it's only been 14 years 😆. Find out more about that here: tflcar.com/2023/05/2024-lexus-gx-teaser-may-news/
14 years?! 😂
You guys REALLY need to get your hands on a 4Runner Limited for these tests. The Limited uses a Torsen Center Differential (the only 4Runner Model to use one) for its full time 4-Wheel Drive System.
The beauty of the torsen is that not only is it a fully mechanical gear system (and incredibly reliable) but the Torsen is designed to automatically lock itself in the case of one axle getting more power due to slippage. This is great for bad weather as you can leave the center differential unlocked 99% and let it lock itself as conditions dictate.
I own a 2020 Limited and I have locked the system into 4-Wheel Locked maybe a dozen times, and this is living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, where our winters are brutal and can dump 24" of snow on you without warning.
The Limited Trim does not get enough love.
I believe the GX has the same system, so its being tested in this video
@@CeeJay591 aye
@@CeeJay591 Ohh I know but.... It would be nice to see more videos of the Limited Trim as you can see GX videos all over the internet
@@FatalAnimal I owned the 2020 Limited for 2 years and loved it, then traded up to the GX - the GX is more popular because, for most folks, the V8, 6 speed auto and KDSS are worth the price difference between the two models. It certainly makes for a more refined and powerful drive.
My wife has a 2015 GX. It’s a tank. So solid. By far the best vehicle we have ever owned.
they are tanks!
They burn thru fuel like a tank too😂
@@ChopperChad yes they do! Haha! 14 miles to the gallon. But after 120k miles , no problems. Buy this time, my Tahoe needed a new transmission.
For winter driving, give me the full time 4wd of the GX or 4Runner Limited anytime. Much easier to live with with no binding on the road and if you get stuck at low speed, you just lock the center diff.
The full time torsen 4wd is the best I’ve ever had. Even when I go off-road I rarely find myself needing to lock the center diff. And not needing to think about 4wd is also nice when the weather can change quick.
Morale of the story is Toyota/Lexus make great traction control systems and it makes light off-roading easy. The A-Trac system is an EZ button that makes even the most inexperienced driver extremely capable in most light off road situations with just the stock set up. It's why it hasn't changed and is still relevant.
I'm sure I've been beaten to the punch but the center diff in the gx is not open, its a Torsen Type-C with a 40:60 nominal bias. It's got a relatively mild torque bias ratio - 1.86:1 if I remember. So its super good for on-road handling, but not so great on rollers. I find that I rarely have to lock up the center, unless I know I will be spinning wheels. Of course the other issue with the GX is that in high range TRAC and VSC is active, as well as throttle modulation. In low ATRAC is engaged, but throttle control and VSC is off which makes a huge difference to something like a roller test.
Great video! I have a 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (Lexus GX470 in N.A.) that only has ABS, but no traction control. It does, however, have full-time 4WD with low range and a locking Torsen transfer case and I have never been stuck on the trails that I frequent. Love the Toyota/Lexus products. Just as an aside, the past tense of "spin" is "spun" not "span."
The KDSS on that GX460 helps wayyyy more than you think. Just having the additional articulation keeping tires on the ground keeps you out of a lot of sticky situations. My ‘15 Land Cruiser had it and the articulation was a massive advantage.
truth! KDSS = sway bar disconnect ❤
4runner Limited have KDSS
@@ashp5406 Limited has X-REAS. Different system.
My 4Runner has KDSS. 2016 Trail.
Only a few models have the option of adding KDSS: Trail, Venture, and Off Road Premium. It’s a total game changer.
Always love the slip test, but even better showing it functionally afterwards. Keep these up Tommy.
I am on my second 4Runner (5th gen trd off road) I have to say an sr5 4wd is all you need. Super budget build was 5100’s all the way around. 2.5 lift in the front and 1.5” lift with spacer in the rear. It retains the stock springs while beefing up the suspension. I installed Bridgestone revo 3’s in the stock size. Went on a road trip with 4 adults with all of our stuff including heavy ice chest. Handled on and off road like a champ! I know there are better systems out there but it was so good I thought “why”?
Fast forward I have a trd off road with a 3/2 lift and 285’s from the dealer. Kdss is installed. They put spacers in. I plan on swapping out the stock shocks with 5100’s again.
I've been trying to explain to my buddy what a locking torsen center diff does for for you vs 2WD->4WD->2WD, gonna send him this video, my Limited 4Runner has the same system as the Lexus and I'm convinced it's superior in the vast majority of road and trail conditions.
Locking the center diff on the AWD system is exactly the same as engaging 4wd on a part time system.
Tell him to just imagine AWD with a torsen center. Except this torsen can lock like how a 4x4 locks. And it has low range like a 4x4 too.
@@nismo370z4 exactly and as a Land Rover owner I honestly think part time is better because you don't have all those moving Parts turning while you're going down the road for no reason and just extra stuff that needs grease and can wear out quicker. Mine has an open Center diff that can lock and traction control that is always on and pretty aggressive. Land Rover Discovery 2. Seems like a Torsen Center diff would have been good for the not lockable models that Land Rover produced but most people just got the center diff lock option later if it didn't have it
@@ronaldrrootiii6040 So are you suggesting that a GX/Prado or a Land Cruiser will "wear out" sooner that a Disco? I'm not sure reality bears out that claim.
You are kidding right? @@ronaldrrootiii6040
This video highlights why I bought a 2013 in 2020. Better approach angle and better price. Then, I spend $650 and took 2.5 hours installing MTS and Crawl Control. It is a game changer and Ive taken this thing anywhere you can imagine including sand dunes.
Every GX460 comes equipped with KDSS which improves slow-speed off-road articulation - and - on road stability. Only specific trim levels of the 4Runnner may be optioned with KDSS: Off-Road Premium for example. You can see the articulation difference in the Video.
People talk about the gas mileage for the GX because of it's V8 and full time 4wd. My '18 TRD Pro 4Runner got 15 MPG and my '23 GX gets 16 mpg.
We went with the GX when we bought it in 2017 because the mpg difference wasn’t that big. I regularly get 15-16mpg in the city and my dads 4Runner is at about 16-17.
Premium gas genius
My wife's 2010 GX 460 gets 18 city and 20 highway driving with economy in mind. A friend of mine has a 19 4runner TRD sport and it gets 1-2 mpg lower city/highway. Due to buying premo gas we end about the same when it comes to cost
Whoever is getting 15mpg on a Pro must have bigger tires and added armor. I got 275s and regularly get 19/20mpgs. Plus its regular gas not premium.
@@theoutdoordad7395regular is just as good. Almost 10 years and no prob
I absolutely love both of these trucks.
I shopped both (last year) on the used market, and found GX’s to be the better value (actually cheaper after some years/miles).
I ended up with a ‘13, partly due to the better angles (bumpers aren’t as low).
With no mods, it’s done an amazing job off-road.
I will add the multi-terrain module at some point, but don’t really need it.
I feel like you can’t go wrong with either vehicle (assuming 4wd capability is on your priority list).
But for the price?, Can a zr2 Colorado not do alot more... Just saying.... "Talking from Canadian used market here ...
Maybe, just maybe...
All of a sudden a chity chev has a serious advantage at a serious discount.... Toyota tax and all.. ....,...,..
I mean for sure, buy one over a ridiculous Honda or Hyundai, but seriously, maintenance aside, who holds the crown....??????
.......
Gx460 owner chiming in. You ready to get your mind blown? If the traction in the GX wasn’t awesome enough ..I added MTS to mine from a company out of Boston, Ma called Blauparts. I believe they cater more towards VW Volvo etc. but for some reason they dabble in GX aftermarket too. Your freakin GX will go anywhere with center diff lock and MTS. It’s bonkers really how capable something is from the factory-ish. Cool review and an awesome channel. Great work guys, been so much fun watching it evolve over the years!
you can just get the OEM module and switch and plug it in - did it on both my 460’s
Yeah it’s Lexus parts but not dealer prices. Prob shoulda added that to the comment!
@@lanelakey1180 can you post parts or link to adding. Curious to see how easy to install.
I have a GX470 that we took the running boards off of and it has a set of TRD Pro wheels and Toyo Open Country ATs. The 4.7 V8 has plenty of power and it has great approach and departure angles. It's got great road manners and tons of off-road capabilities.
Love these vehicles. I have a 2011 4Runner limited. Same/similar system as the Lexus GX. It’s an incredible vehicle. Hauls the family comfortably everywhere. Great on road in winter. Great off-road when adventure calls. Tows my small 23ft camper just fine. Has plenty of power and decent mileage. It’s just so dang reliable. I’d be fine to drive this thing forever. And I just might. Go get you one if you haven’t already.
I would love to see them test the different generations of 4Runners.
Tommy, I love your slip tests on the 4wd awd systems!! Keep them up! They're so much fun to watch!!
That's why I bought the 2023 4Runner Limited AWD, the best of both world, GX 4WD technology at a price of a 4Runner! I average 19MPG after 10,000 miles.
I'll never understand why so many 4wd vehicles have so much front-end trim so close to the ground. If you're heading out in snow, you risk damaging it. Love my 4R TRD Pro, nothing low to the ground.
Fuel standards and sales. They really don't have a choice.
The GX still has the typical luxury vehicle depreciation, so you can find less than 5 year old GX460s with fairly low miles for under 40k. IMHO buy a clean, used GX460, then install aftermarket off road bumpers and rock rails, and yes the GX460 actually has a decent aftermarket for off road stuff. A-TRAC just looks like a simplified version of MTS. MTS is also off road traction control, just with 5 settings instead of one.
Exactly what I did. I can't afford a used 4Runner lol. They are awesome and something a little different when you start modding for off-road
Atrac is much older than MTS and also a different system. Also, the suspension parts are the same on the GX and 4runners. My GX is on icons and 34s. Love this thing!
Just delete kdss if you lift it. Thank me later.
I really like this 4x4 drive comparison content you do. Thanks you !
You explain it very well and then show the actual performance.
Nice.
The 4th gen 4runner is the real unicorn of drivetrains. 2wd, awd, part time 4wd, AWD Lo, and part time 4lo. I don't know of any other vehicle that can do this. (And yes, full time 4wd is the same as AWD. But a clutch based 4 auto is not a true AWD system)
WJ series Jeep grand Cherokee (1999-2004)selec trac has all that and 4wd. Newer grand Cherokees don’t
Nice! Awesome slip test, that confirms my experience, I know full time 4WD term is often used, but this is how I would describe the difference between AWD, step up to 4WD, and the final step up to ATRAC, which is the Toyota e-lockers. On my GX, you go between the AWD and ATRAC with the center diff lock. The time you are 4WD without ATRAC is when you have emissions codes on your dash. Best to keep an OBDII handy in case you need to clear codes.
We got my wife this exact GX blackline package and I have a 2021 4 runner limited. Both loving them and 100% reliability so far. That GX is a bargain compared to the competition, you'll pay the difference in gas though.. 😂
What you pay at the pump is called “reliability tax”.
I can’t name a single “competitor” to the GX, in America at least
I can research... again, because it's been a while...but the Lexus GX requires premium gasoline right? Or can you run 87 octane?
@@packhorse5430 correct. The GX takes premium. That’s why I call it a “reliability tax” every time I fill mine up.
@@packhorse5430 They claim that it does to hit EPA numbers, same as the LX. In reality, I can't tell a difference running regular in my LXs. Same engine as the Toyota badged LCs, so....
The GX will be the next group of vehicles that get mods. I’ve put a lift on mine and bigger tires and it’s sufficient on everything off road I would care to do. Sure in stock form it’s not for the clearance of a 4 runner, but new aftermarket springs and adjustable shocks and more aggressive tires make a huge difference and easy on the budget.
And I am sure it looks extra cool with that aggressive tires!
My thoughts after owning a 2008 GX470, 2017 4runner TRD OR, and 2014 GX460. Of the three, my son and I prefer the GX470 overall. The 2017 4runner is a TRD OR model that is non-KDSS. I mostly run moderate trails in it, but I've done 2-3 difficult trails out in Colorado. The lack of KDSS never slowed me down and I had no issues. What I do notice is that the lack of KDSS makes the vehicle a little more loose in the turns, but nothing scary in my opinion. The GX460 has KDSS, and a 5in lift with 33" tires, diff drop etc. I like the comfort of the interior. but hate that the AC controls are touch screen. The GX460 feels VERY wide compared to the 4runner. On Alabama tight woods trails it does not give a feeling of confidence as the vehicle just feels much bigger. The 4.6 V8 is also a little dissapointing compared to the GX470. The throttle response is disconnected and there just doesnt seem to be much torque for a V8 (maybe it's the weight of the vehicle that also hampers it). Now the GX470 seems to have the best engine as far as HP and torque. It also feels much smaller on the trails while still being just as comfortable as the 5th gen 4runner. The GX470 that we had was non-KDSS and seemd to float a little in turns until we upgraded it to an Eibach Pro lift kit. The ride after that was night and day, and again we did not have issues on trails and there was no missing the KDSS. The KDSS in my opinion is great for a vehicle that will mostly be on the road 90%, and where a high lift is not desired. Once you swap out the factory struts and shocks you really do not need KDSS and the extra expense that it brings to lifting the vehicle. There is a myth that the KDSS systems are bullit proof and never never have issues, that is not true. My son is a Toyota technician, and they have to fix KDSS systems that fail, not that they fail often, but it does happen sometimes. Therefore I prefer to just not have one more system to have to worry about or even think about when modifying the vehicle. One more thing, the 5th gen 4runner has the best aftermarket support, to some that is a big plus. Both the 470 and 460 are limited in aftermarket front and rear bumper selections. We are having a custom one made for the 460 because we really did not like the ones on the market and the selection was slim. Hope this helps someone decide on a route or vehicle to purchase.
My mechanic, a Toyota/Lexus trained mechanic, swears by GX 470.
GX470s are great but good luck finding one in good shape. The ones you find at used car lots are usually clunkers. You’d just have to get lucky finding one at a Lexus dealership or a private seller that’s the original owner. I gave up looking for a 470 and went for a 460. Also worth noting KDSS was somewhat rare on the 470 but is standard on the 460, and you can get a 460 with no air suspension which is a huge plus. I’m a Toyota technician as well and I’ve yet to see KDSS fail. In my opinion it is bullet proof. X-REAS on the other hand is a nightmare.
I rented a 2010 prado turbodiesel for a couple weeks around 2010.
I own a 2022 4runner.
I used to drive a 2000 diesel hilux with IFS .
The 4 runner reminds me of the hilux more than the prado.
Prado from memory was more aloof
4 runner is way better for cargo.
I had rav4s at the time i drove the prado and the rav4 could carry as much cargo.
Legendary 4Runner can do it all. 💪👍🔥
Learned something today-in 4hi the traction control still sends power around similar to 4lo with atrac engages…makes me love my 2014 4runner even more
Great video but you’re wrong about 1 thing. The GX didn’t get its traction control and other aids from the lessons learned of the 4Runner and etc. Instead, they got it from the GX. The GX is after all, the Land Cruiser Prado. It doesn’t have an “A-Trac” button because it’s automatic on all GXs and works in 4-high as well. Not to mention the (standard on a GXs) KDSS was working wonders on the trail.
The biggest difference between the GX and the 4Runner is that the GX can be had with absolutely all of the tools Toyota has (KDSS, center differential locks, full time 4WD, A-Trac, multi-terrain select, crawl control, and etc.) but no 4Runner can have all of it. Having all of it is what makes a Land Cruiser Prado (and GX) what they are. The 4Runner is truly amazing but it ain’t no Land Cruiser. The 4Runner will always be the little brother to the Land Cruiser (GX).
Plus you can add those options to a base GX
@@ephraker you’re right but only for the 2009-2020…or up to whatever year until they changed the infotainment system. After that, you can’t add the crawl control and MTS.
Yeah people say the GX is the lexafied 4Runner when it’s more like the opposite. It’s the Prado, same full time LC 4wd. 4Runner and FJ are based off IT, and since many aren’t even part time 4wd, they are a watered down version.
Crazy thing is if you look at like a 2018, both the 4Runner and GX are practically the same price now used. Hard to pass on the little extra luxury when it is almost priced like a base SR5.
I'm looking right now and agree. What I'm finding though is the GX is a V8 which is fine in itself, but it also seems to require premium. That's a tough combo for the pocketbook putting the 4Runner ahead I think.
You don’t have to use premium. Tons of people are using 87 with no issues. Lexus is the better choice.
100% a better deal. Love mine.
@@CopterKevI’ll have to look into that then. Thanks
I think part of that price similarity is GX not having the "Toyota" or "4runner" badge. Even though it says manufactured by Toyota motor Co in Japan in the door on both, more people know what the 4R is but not know as much about Toyota and the rest of what they make
I was gonna buy a used 4Runner, but went with the cheaper option and got a GX. 😂 6spd auto and a V8, and a 3rd row if you need it
So funny that the gx was cheaper
@@rocketmonkey90 People being stupid and paying the markups
Trd has a 3rd row version
FWIW, the 4th gen 4runner V8 has the same Torsen center diff AWD system. So far I've never found a situation that ATRAC couldn't handle, up to the limits of traction. One mistake people often make with it though, is not maintaining steady throttle. It just needs a few moments to understand what's going on before it is fully active. If you let off the throttle, it has to start over.
Agree with everything said here except the price. A Sr5 with cloth seats new is more like 46K, and if you get some of the small upgrades like led interior lights, and phone charger package your at 47,500. This atleast is the price before dealer mark ups in North Carolina. I wish it was high 30s, even the 2 wheel drive base is 42900.
To dealers that done do dealer mark up. I bought my 4 runner in Richmond va last year 4x4 sr5 for 40k even. They are out there but have to work to find it
Good ol SET add ons lol
So I watched this whole video and I still do not know what the secret Toyota doesn't want me to know is!
Just to get an sr5 instead on the off-road or pro.
@@zebuluncharnesky3285 Unless you want stuff like KDSS and a rear locker.
@zebuluncharnesky3285 ugh so save money and get 98% of what you want to do? But I like the 2% and the ride on road is better, plus I can afford it.
My GX460 has never let me down. Best vehicle i ever have
Makes me curious about my pre-A-Trac 4x4 system in my '02 Sequoia. I've put it in 4Hi for snow/ice and gravel roads, but never really needed anything more than that. I know it does have 4Lo and a center locker, but I've never been in any situations that called for me to use it. It just laughs at me when I try to challenge it.
16:00 I learned what the GX platform can do off road with our 2008 GX 470. That’s why we also bought a 2019 GX 460;with 23,000 miles a year ago. Both wonderful vehicles in all sorts of mud, rain, snow or any combination of all 3. Also real world MPG of 18-19
Is it true that the 4.6 only takes premium? I’ve been debating on getting a 4runner or a GX for a daily/overlander. Mind you I’m in college😅
Yes premium. You should go with the 4runner.
The center diff on the gx is a limited slip. It’s not open. My 2010 gx with 140000 will get 22 on the highway.
Are you serious? That is nuts
@@bcw686 yep I have a 2022 and its a torsen limited slip, its not open. Also get 20+ hwy.
Lies, lol. 18 at best
2012 here, can get 22 but only of you drive 70 max …
@@blammo8208 🤣😂 nope
I’ve been looking for a video like this for the longest time! Thank you for the content!
Toyota and Lexus never disappoint when it comes to off-road adventures. 🤩
Yeah until their axles break or pop out.
The KDSS is so good on the GX too. Look at the articulation in the Trenches.
Gx in that green color is so beautiful!
Great vehicles. I have a new Land Cruiser prado and it is full time 4WD with low range and centre locker. You can drive in 4L with or without the locker making it easier to do sharp turns while still staying in 4L. Not having to change between 2H and 4H Is great, but it does drink more diesel being fulltime 4WD. Its nice to have a real mechanical locker not some pretend locker like a lot of cars have nowadays. Easy to know if you have a real mechanical locker or a false one. The car will judder and be difficult to turn sharp when on dry roads when the locker is engaged.
I had my 2011 SR5 in a situation over the weekend where there were large water ruts through the center of an off road trail. I tried to cross the ruts and had a at least one wheel in the air. I was in 4 low but just spun my tires (Grabber ATXs) . I pressed the A trac button and within a few seconds it grabbed and o crossed the crack that was about 2 feet deep. It works in real life.
My 2010 GX takes me anywhere and everywhere. Reliably. Almost at 200K and I have aftermarket bumpers and tire carrier and rack on it, so added weight.
Thanks Tommy. The LC 150 GX which the Lexus GX is based on is simular with the Lexus in most things such as KDSS, but has lockers also at the rear axel with air suspension. Best wishes from Norway
A lot of people dont know that even the 2WD 4Runners have this advanced traction control system (called AUTO LSD) acting essentially as a rear locker
Surprised TFL has not given any love to the king of 4runners the 4th gen V8! 7500lb tow rating is worth talking about .
Glad you finally coordinated this video.
I have an Off Road Premium with a 112000 miles. I not a rock crawler but am off road a lot. I have used the locker once.
A locker is like a firearm. Better to have it and not need to than need it and not have it. Although, you can usually avoid getting into situations where you need it by taking smart lines and having a winch.
Curious on how the 4th gen 4runner v8 will hold up on your test...
Be careful locking that center differential on the GX if you are driving at any significant speed on ice or slippery snow. Generally speaking, you are ok if you break traction with two wheels. But when you only have one wheel with traction, that can be bad.
That’s why you have A-Trac
One thing its for sure you no need to spend money on a M.-B. G. Klasse! This two are enough! At least from my p.o.v.! Good video young one, keep up the good work!
For the GX are you switching between gears before hitting the Center Differential lock, or keeping it in Drive?
I would have added a summery of the differences at the end
GX all day, every day! Towing capacity, better ride quality, better interior, luxury comforts, love the center diff being always in 4 high
I wonder what the Australians think about the off-road capability of the Toyota vehicles offered in the USDM.
6:51 it kinda looks like the tired drifted to the edge of the rollers and got traction on the frame of those rollers, great break down though
I'd be interested in seeing a slip test on the 4A mode on the F150 and GM 1500 trucks.
Please TFL!
I love both. Initially I was shopping for a GX. I ended driving a 4Runner and got that instead. Although the dream is to have both. So it’s still a goal
I have one of the rare full time 4WD Tahoes with 4 Lo option on my 2005 Tahoe. It is amazing in the snow. It’s the Borg Warner 4482. It has full time 4WD (60:40 split) and the 4 Lo button that allows the center diff to lock it to 50:50 torque split. But it has no 2WD option. Sometimes I wish I had the standard transfer case. But, it’s a very unique setup for sure. It’s a similar transfer case to the Borg Warner in the Hummers (BW4484) but mine lacks the 4 Hi (locked center diff) option.
Who cares!, this is a Toyota discussion!
Cool.
The black line GX 460 is my dream car… only because I can’t find a new one for sale!!! I’m calling dealerships nationwide
@12:20 Exactly why 4Runner Limited got the ticket for my wife over the Lexus GX460. Way better ground clearance, standard skid plates including full fuel tank skid, better fuel range with V6 and 23gal tank combo, and many other good stuff including that legendary 1GR-FE engine used on so many Toyota's which is even available on big Land cruiser 300 or even Lexus GX outside USA . Wish I had the newer 4Runner with blind spot monitoring, 360 camera, heated steering and all that jazz newer 4Runner have. Wish TFL was near by to give the Limited and TRD Pro so you have 4Runner electronic part-time 4wd vs 4Runer manual part-time 4wd vs 4Runner full-time 4wd vs Gx full-time 4wd.
By seeing some of the comments about KDSS I wanted share my take on it. Not having KDSS was my choice for better reliability, better comfort on rough roads/ trails.
😂 yeah yeah
@@LionRunnerKDSS is an extremely reliable system. Very rare to have issues.
You may regret that decision when you have to replace the X REAS system
Will be interesting to see the new GX unveiled soon. Had a 2013 GX for a few years and that thing was unstoppable here in Colorado.
I had a new 4Runner loaner while my 2008 GX 470 in for service at Toyota. I could never drive a 4Runner. Despite being a 2023 it felt so cheap. And that v6 was just sad. Nope, I’d rather drive an old GX than a new 4Runner.
funny you say that, i also have a 2008 GX. Driving my dads 2018 4Runner SR5 felt very rugged. Not too smooth, engine sounded course, can feel the transmission shift. High up dashboard
You guys are funny, silly boys, lexus are for ladies😂 Just like my wife has the lexus and says EXACTLY the same. I can drive both, but at least one is going to get the job done that is actually made for 😂😂😂
@@Anomize23 your wife has better taste then you. If you really knew, you would know Lexus is the same as a Toyota but better quality and smoother 😂😂😂
I previously owned a 4Runner and recently got into GX. I personally think the GX blows the 4Runner away.
Excellent video! Last year drove a rental 4Runner at Vail on an icy round about in 4WD. Got her sideways but no real issues. Drove my 2020 Subey WRX with 6M on winters at Jay Peak VT this year during a snow storm up a 12% grade, and got her a bit sideways on the downhill. On the road you want be in a WRX, and sadly I can't own both
The reason the current GX 460 has so much plastic on the front of it is because of Car tubers like you that are incessantly complaining about needing new updates on the vehicles. That’s not the formula for Toyota and Lexus. They find some thing that works and stick with it. The 2010 through 2013 GX 460 did not have all that plastic on the front but we needed to change, right! Now look at it. And we are about to lose the V-8 as well. In the name of progress! Good job guys!
So Toyota told you that "Car tubers" made them redesign the front end of the GX460? Interesting. I just figured they did a front facia update like most manufacturers do at the 4-5 year point.
LOL you mean Biden's green agenda with idiotic emission restrictions caused the demise of the v8...
Enjoyed that but can you add a video showing the underbodies axle/differential layout and how the two systems physically/mechanically are differentiated?
Great video as always!!! I would like to see the slip test done on a 4th gen 4runner limited the one with the center diff lock and select-able 4wd. I had a 2007 and was able to treat it just like it was awd and not 4wd in the winter then in the summer would just leave it on 2wd. Was a great feature wish the 4runner would have kept that in the new generations.
When I was looking for bigger car for my family I considered Lexus RX 450h, but after looking at reviews I dismissed it. The hybrid 4x4 is almost useless in difficult conditions. Also IIRC the non-hybrid version wasn't that good either. The potential is there but not implemented well. LX is probably much better but the price is also much higher.
Hi @tflcar, just a correction.
The center diff is not an open one, but a limited slip one. So it multiplies the torque available on the axle with the least traction by a factor, something like 3x for example. So if the traction on the axle is 0, multiply by 3, it’s still zero. In reality that’s never the case in the real world, so you always have some traction going to both axles.
Great video! And very informative.
I own a 2019 4runner Limited with the center locking Torsen differential.
This is an awesome setup with the full time 4WD and ability to lock it into traditional 4WD High or Low. Throw in the Active Trac...and you have an amazing vehicle.
IMHO the Limited is the best trim on the 4runner.
Can you compare a Trd off road to a base sr5 off road. Basically atrac compared to rear locker and crawl control.
Amazing demonstration! I learned a lot here. Thank you!
Bought a 21 4runner SR5 and that same day I bought the truck I took it to the beach and found myself pulling out jeeps and Ford's with no issue because of that A-track keeping traction even on the sand!!!
Great job explaining the different traction approaches. Thoughts on waiting for the 2024 GX550 over the 2023 GX460...would you wait? Not generally good to buy the first year of a remodel...but in this case? Will the current GX460s maintain their usually solid resale value or drop considerably with the release of the new GX550s? Thanks.
Consider this, no more V8s… I think the resale will remain solid. People love NA V8s, yeah everyone knows the gas mileage sucks but that sound and butter smooth power-train is now lost.
Look at v8 4th gen 4Runners. Their resale and demand is outrageous. Only thing holding it back are the creature comforts which a Lexus will cover.
You are correct never buy a first year model or major update. Let the early adopters sort out the issues and deal with the heartaches. Another thing to think about is how much wheeling (offroading) will you be doing? The GX550 looks much bigger and heavier, thats not always a great thing on the trails.
I want to know where I can find a brand new 4runner SR5 4X4 for mid 30s out the door as stated.
Yeah, they were a little off with that price 😂
@@RysterARCEE For sure haha, I live in california, if you can even find a base model SR5 4x4 for sale, you are looking at about a minimum $47000 OTD after taxes and fees. And that is with no mark up, also hard to find. Ide buy 2 if I could find them for mid 30s OTD lol.
You can also add MTS and Crawl Control to the GX, it's really cheap compared to lockers, and works pretty good!
The more I hear about the turbo 4 cylinders and the recalls on the turbo 6's, the more I'm thinking of picking up a nice used Gx460 with the bulletproof 4.6L v8...
Put a stealth winch front bumper on it, a low profile rear bumper and rock sliders on the sides.
two of my favorite classic
I learned a lot. Thank you for making this video.
Hi😀 great comparison, very interesting. Greetings from Poland👍👍😀😀
I have owned every North American vehicle that uses this platform (FJ Cruiser, 5th gen 4Runner and GX). As an overland platform, the GX and 4Runner are unrivaled! What they lack in most advanced interior tech, they make up for with 25 year service life potential and excellent off road capability! I have a supercharged 2019 4Runner TRD Off Road! I have been dying for someone to release something that will be the proper replacement for my 4Runner. I have tried the Defender, but that breaks and wheel lifts like a car. The design of the current GX makes it harder to mod for hardcore off road use and the heavier V8 will lead to issues, if you don't account for it. Also, as a "luxury" vehicle, the GX's outdated tech left me unsatisfied.
However lol, they are unveiling the new GX in a week and I already want it! It will have the same 3.4 twin turbo V6 as the 300 Series and Tundra etc, but be tuned for less power.. That will make it even more reliable than the 300 Series! It will have a more off road worthy model offering, a lighter engine and modern interior technology! I'm so excited for the next GX! It will be the first vehicle worth retiring my 4Runner and curing my 5th gen 4Runner addiction 🤣
25 years 😂😂😂. My 2013 gx will last a lot longer than that.
"More reliable than 300 series"... 😂😂 Meanwhile the 3.4 in 100,000 Tundras was recalled due to machining debris which can cause crankshaft main bearing failure. Oh the irony.
@@I_dont_read_responses The GX550 and 300 Series use the exact same engine and are manufactured in Japan. The GX550's engine is tuned down to have less power than the 300, so will be more reliable. I'm not sure what the American built Tundra has to do with the Japanese built 300 Series, or the GX550. Every manufacturer has recalls, regularly. New platforms are most prone to recalls. Maybe you are 16 and just learned about recalls? Toyota has had bigger recalls, as have other manufacturers. I drove my new GX550 from Utah, USA, to Vancouver Canada, and back. Counting detours was over 2500 miles
The 300 Series and GX550 will be the most reliable current gen SUVs.
I’ve take a bone stock with good tires only, bmw x5 g05 to Moab many times never had any issues 🤷🏾♀️ fins and things and not only the east lines. People your vehicles might be more capable than you realize.
So, what we learned here is that the distinguishing factor are the engine & luxury feature between the Lexus & 4Runner. But factoring in the 4WD system only, it's not worth spending the extra money.
4RUNNER is the winner!
If you're looking at cars 5-6 years old the 4runners cost the same or more. That's the situation I'm in.
You need the locker when spinning up loose stuff. If the terrain is grippy, TC is enough to keep your rolling with a wheel or 2 off the ground. Toyota does it well.
They do make a stripped down version, it's called the Land Cruiser Prado - which is sold the world over except North America. It is the vehicle that the 4Runner, FJ, and Tacoma is based on, not the other way around.