In need of advice.
I test drove 07 SR5 and Sport and not sure what to get. SR5 has nice ride but Sport has nice features but $$ more also. Have prices on both SR5 is priced with options to get it up to the sport model minus things that are Sport Ed only features.
Both would have sunroof, rear spoiler, towing, running lights, Am/FM 6cd, mats etc. SR5 would have above plus Tonneau cover, 17" alum wheels, Leather wrap steering wheel.
Prices:
SR5 MSRP $32754 = $28068
Sport MSRP= $34864 = $29761

Would appreciate any advice on what you like or dislike about the 4runner models.

The Sport Edition has one key feature that the SR5 doesn't (and is even optional on the Limited), and that's the X-REAS suspension. Simply put, X-REAS allows the truck to adjust the firmness of the shocks on the fly, which is designed to reduce body roll when cornering. The SE also has bigger brake rotors and calipers, which are standard on the SE and the Limited. The other SE-only features are mostly cosmetic, such as the special roof rack, running boards, and the hood scoop (which is not functional). The SE also includes some interior features as standard that are optional on the SR5, which can make the SE a better value for the money.

If you didn't notice the ride difference between the SE and the SR5, or if you liked the ride of the SR5 better, then for you it just comes down to the appearance of the other SE features and the pricing.

I didn't realize rotors and calipers were different also... thanks for the info

This is a very researched question... Basically it depends on your preference...

SE - XREAS, heated mirrors, telescoping steering wheel, darker interior, hood scoop, roof rack, step tubes, more money.

SR5 - lower money, easier to lift, more comfortable ride (i.e. less stiff), more variety of interior colors, side step boards (easier for women's heels).

As far as the larger brakes are concerned, some SR5's with the 17" wheels also come with the larger front brakes like the SE. My 2004 has larger front brake rotors than the back which match the SE brake sizes. Toyota.com/4runner no longer lists larger front brakes on the SE as a feature.

Do not try to save money by getting lesser value. If you do, you will be like most of us spending lot of money on upgrades. For instance: if I had factory navigation unit I wouldn't need $ 2,300 for Panasonic Z2 navi or aftermarket alarm. I'd get Sports or even Limited either one Loaded... Good Luck.

Good point! Did that with the truck we currently have,,, no 4x4 big mistake.

I bought my SR5 to replace a Honda Pilot that my wife totaled in an accident. The Pilot protected her very well, and I was convinced that the side airbags saved her from more serious injury. She only ended up with very minor bumps and bruises even theough the driver's side door shell was completely torn off, among other carnage.

After that incident, there was no way I was buying another vehicle without side/curtain airbags. In order to get these in an SR5 without special ordering, I had to buy a lot of other stuff that I really didn't need that pushed my SR5's price well into SE territory. You may want to see how adding the side/curtain airbags would affect your decision price-wise.

SE's don't come standard with Side Air Curtains/Side Air bags either. Only on the Limited is that a standard option. In some states, these optional items are part of the regional package they order for all dealers.

Hey thanks for all your help and info... all good points. I will let you know which we choose tomorrow

I'd go for the SE.. almost traded my SR5 this weekend for one.. but whatever you chose you'll love either one so GL!

Well, for my money, I will take side/curtain airbags over a non-functional hood scoop, XREAS, heated mirrors, etc. anyday.

However, I am now almost middle-aged and have a family to worry about. A few years ago, that hood scoop would've been damn tempting!

I agree, and the resale value on the vehicle with air bags versus a hood scoop isn't even a comparison. I have an SR5 and I am very happy with it.

I would seriously spend more money for the Sport Edition. It's a great value. I'm sure you'd be able to find one with RSCA and front seat mounted side airbags. All the SE's they had on my dealer's lot had RSCA (granted it probably was a common regional configuration). Asides from the already mentioned features of the SE, it also has audio controls on the steering wheels, unique 6-spoke 17" wheels, color keyed door handles, rear garnish, & sideview mirrors. The headlamp bezels are also a darker smoke chrome along with the grill (not really noticeable I have to admit though). The tube steps are much easier to keep clean too in my experience. My SR5's black running boards get much dirtier faster than my SE's tube steps.

I would trade my heated mirrors and stuff for side airbags. A SR5 or Sport with side airbags in 2005 was rare.

Now in the mid-Atlantic region you can get a Sport or SR5 with side-bags.

I certainly would love to have the added features of the SE. However, if money is an issue and I had to choose between the extra airbags and the SE package, I would take the airbags. Of course, if I had the extra money, an SE or Limited with airbags trumps an SR5 every time.