[Aeneas]

I know that the 3rd gen is usually the more desireable/popular trucks, but as I've been going through some 4th gen builds, I've been warming up to them. Especially the V8 (despite the timing belt issue). It's the kind of truck I could really see myself having for an extended period of time: it has car-towing capabilities, it has horsepower, it looks...decent...and what is loses to the 3rd gen in looks, it makes up in sound.
The cons seem to be:

• No locker option
• Timing belt
• More expensive
• I guess the V8s are full time 4x4? I personally am not a fan
• What else?

[T4R2014]

Timing belt issues? Those 1GR owners will tell you the darndest things.

[Ed_C]

Last time I looked under the hood, my 3rd-gen's V6 also uses a timing belt....

[Bumbo]

While I love all 4Runners, the 4th gen is the most desirable generation to me after spending some time with each (3rd, 4th, and 5th).

I don't particularly see a issue with the full time 4x4. It's no different than how a GX, Land Cruiser, or 5th gen Limited is setup. AWD on high traction surfaces with the ability to locked the center diff for true 4WD with low range. Not missing out on anything here unless the ability to operate in 2WD is really important to you for whatever reason.

The V6 4th gen is also great, chain timing, and the only thing it adds is the ability to operate in 2WD in addition to the rest of the other modes. Unique and cool, but I often times just drive around in AWD (4WD center unlocked) just because I can.

I would have also preferred to have a locker out of the box, but as I build it up, decided to just do it when I get around to re-gearing. It's a cost, but not a limitation.

The comfort 3rd to 4th agrees with me by a fair margin. If you can find a V8 4th gen which works for you, I would not hesitate to jump on it.

[gamefreakgc]

This is mostly an off-road/overland build forum and the lack of a locking rear differential is a deal breaker for some. For the other 95%, it's a solid platform with lots of modern features. I'm in the 5% that doesn't want a V8 4th Gen, they don't like boost and the engines are not as bulletproof as the 5VZ-FE.

[Inv4drZm]

Originally Posted by gamefreakgc

I'm in the 5% that doesn't want a V8 4th Gen, they don't like boost and the engines are not as bulletproof as the 5VZ-FE.

That's not true at all. 5.5psi gets you 100hp and 100tq with the URD kit.

Million mile Tundras both had the 2UZ.

[eddielasvegas]

IMHO, by far the ugliest of all T4R generations.

I could not spend my money on such a fugly vehicle no matter a V8, or cheap price or you name it.


Eddie

[Inv4drZm]

Originally Posted by eddielasvegas

IMHO, by far the ugliest of all T4R generations.

I could not spend my money on such a fugly vehicle no matter a V8, or cheap price or you name it.


Eddie

Really? Worse than the 2nd gen? Ouch.

Some people hate the look of a mk4 Supra too so I guess it is completely subjective.

[theesotericone]

Originally Posted by Inv4drZm

Really? Worse than the 2nd gen? Ouch.

Some people hate the look of a mk4 Supra too so I guess it is completely subjective.

Yep. I can't stand Robert Plants voice which means I can't listen to what a lot of people think is the best band ever. lol

On a topic related note, I picked up a 2009 for my wife last January. Something about me making taking over the 3rd gen and her never getting to use it. The 2009 is a V6 and it is a great rig to drive. Plenty of power and a lot roomier then the 3rd gen. Also the 2009 is the only year that came with a VSC and ATRAC off button. Press the button and it shuts down VSC. Hold the button and it shuts everything off. Most guys have to do a wire mod for that. So I've already got a modded rig and I haven't done shit. lol

[Scramble]

I've warmed up to them too. Almost bought a V8 Sport a year & a half ago but found a one owner 99 e-locked Limited instead. The V6 has a timing chain, you can find a 2009 Trail (v6 only) which has a factory locker. Or swap in an e-locker axle from an FJ Cruiser.

[FunBobby]

Originally Posted by Inv4drZm

Really? Worse than the 2nd gen? Ouch.

Some people hate the look of a mk4 Supra too so I guess it is completely subjective.

Unpopular opinion: I think the 2nd Gen is the best looking 4Runner

[MaineRunna]

I love 3rd gen and 5vz, but the wife's 05 4.0L looks ok with the 1" lift leveling kit, has way more power, more room, third row seating and is still going strong at 223k.

[JZiggy]

All the specs are there in the 4th gens... but I can’t get on the same wavelength with them. A part of my subconscious keeps insisting, “they’re not really 4Runners.” Maybe it’s the a decade of 1st gen ownership holding me back somehow. Just my own problem.

[absalom]

The ATRAC on the 4th gen is 99% as good as a rear locker.

[FZRunner]

Sometimes it takes living with the machine a while before you love it. My 3rd gen was more truck-like, hauling dirt bikes off road and such. I only switched to a 4th because of comfort and safety features for my then 3 yr old daughter. At first we both missed it, then we both fell in love with this one. Go figure. Anyway, I've had three 4runners, and they're all great. Each unique, none "better" than another, just different. Good luck.