So, as a result of changing jobs due to COVID, I down-sized my vehicle fleet from three to one. Working from home permanently, so I don't need a commuter vehicle.
One of my trades was a 16' ORP w/KDSS. So, I was already a loyal and happy 4Runner owner.
First off, I love the truck, but I'll discuss my impressions so far.
Buying Process
I found the truck-in-transit online and slapped a $500 deposit on it. It took about 6 weeks more for it to make it from the port to the dealer.
The truck was full MSRP (of course), but they add the "Environmental Package" to all TRD Pro vehicles they sell (essentially $1450 markup.)
They called me and said I could pick up the truck. When I got there, they told me the environmental crap was not done. The dealer is two hours away. I said I am not coming back. I said, "Just take it off." and they refused, stating that these trucks normally go for $5k over MSRP - implying to me that I should just pay for it anyway. I refused. The sales manager said they were not taking it off. I got a little loud in the showroom (I was pissed) and the SM admitted they made a mistake. I asked him to give me something for my trouble. They refused again. I upped my level of annoyance. Finally, he said, "I'll deal with the heat from upstairs and just take it off."
Frankly, this was the best possible outcome IMO. I told them I'd have to take a day off from work to have them spray $50 of fluid film or whatnot on the truck. I got angy because of the initially snobby attitude. Admit your mistake, and offer me something for my trouble. After that, it was smooth - they didn't even try and upsell me on anything else.
Exterior Impressions
The Super White with the black rims etc. looks awesome. The Terra Grapplers look goods, but not as good as the KO2's on my trade in (that were near end of life.) Love the Toyota on the front grill instead of the logo. This truck has the predator side steps which I realize are not sliders, but it really helps my fiance get in and out of the truck, so they stay for now. Overall, 9 out of 10 for exterior styling.
Interior Impressions
I like the SoftText - 50,000 miles on my 16 and the seats looked the same as the day I bought it. The new Infotainment is great, IMO. HUGE improvement. My fiance has a 19' Passport Elite that has the latest and greatest Honda system, and it's a beautiful hi-res display, but it's very busy and frankly, the system on the 4Runner is much easier to use IMO. The resolution is fine. I'm not watching 8k television here. Android Auto works great, and it's my first exposure to it. Wireless Android Auto would be nice. The JBL sound systems is pretty good IMO. Not fantastic. I had the OEM Audio+ in my 4Runner and loved it. This is not as good. But far better than the stock system that came in my ORP when I bought it. I'll keep it as-is for now, possible speaker upgrade down the road. Love the auto climate control. I appreciate the simple interior and easy-to-use copntrols. I like the new gauge cluster and the integrated display. The nav insturctions in the center gauges is very welcomes. Overall, 7.5 out of 10.
Ride Quality
Love it. The KDSS ORP ride was actually pretty rough, I suspect the huge swaybars contributed to that. Corner lean was non-existent on the '16. The Pro certainly doesn't feel as sure-footed in corners, but the ride is SO much better overall IMO. 9 out of 10.
Safety Sense
I use cruise control a lot, and the radar cruise works great. I like it on my fiance's Passport, but it often seems to slam on the brakes and Toyota's seems smoother in operation. Lane departure is and always will be a PITA - I leave it off, but may enable if I am ever on a long road trip. 7 out of 10.
Mods
I installed the blackout letters for the back. Easy to do, and looks great. I also added the center console organizer and tray, as well as the famous glove-box organizer. I also added the faux carbon fiber overlay for the faux metal bar on the passnger side. It closely matches the center fake carbon fiber, and reduces the amount of materials in the cabin. It fit perfectly, and looks great. I also bought the LED interior bulbs, but have not installed them yet. Otherwise, this truck will stay stock for a while.
Overall, I love this truck. I'll take some pics once the weather is decent outside, but it's a super white Pro with Predator steps and they all look more or less the same ... LOL.
Linear Mode
