Hi Folks,

As a potential 4Runner buyer, I am in the research and shop phase. I haven't been able to find detailed descriptions of the various features, packages, and options. I have been to the Toyota web site but haven't found, for example, what KDSS is (though I have an idea from this forum), how it works, and why I would want it. Same with Crawl, Multi Terrain Select, etc. Also, something as simple as "Premium Package" has me wondering what is included.

I guess I'm a dinosaur - I miss the days of brochures. :-(

Any tips on research resources would be most appreciated.

BTW, recently I drove an Off Road Premium with KDSS. I got a few interstate miles in and it was a pretty windy day. I didn't notice any adverse handling or any nose dive with firm braking. Credit the handling to KDSS, or are all 2023's well behaved?

Thanks!

I certainly found surprises in what I thought I knew. Glad I didn't buy the limited Runner. It was #3 on the list. So very worth getting some other opinions before you pull the trigger. We wound up with the GX instead. So much better is so many ways, but not as good in a couple. Really fits what we need better. Just the suspension differances with the limited vs the pro or others. The T-case differences are BIG. I have seen Limiteds with no locking T-case. WTF!!!!!! I like the KDSS. It's one of the better features toyota has going for it. but I have been told if you intend to lift it, you don't want it. So there is that. Wish we could have gotten the locker in the rear diff but it wasn't available. Good luck with your search. Maybe post the things you think you want, and get some opinions on your option choices. Make sure you also post your intended use.

KDSS combines a stifffer swaybar for highway turns with flexible articulation in 4L at low speeds. You can lift it to 3 inches, but it will limit you if you want to go a few steps further and turn the rig into a rock crawler (fewer options for swapping out the lower control arms and front axles for a long travel setup, or reinforcing the spindles, etc).

The best feature of the TRD OR is the rear locker. Multiterrain select and crawl control are modest additions to the A-Trac system on SR5 models. If you want to go to 35 inch tires and change the differential gears, you could also install rear and front air lockers to an SR5 at that time.

The Premium upgrade gives you Softex premium vinyl seats. They are durable and comfortable.

If I were to do it again, I would start my build with an SR5 rather than an ORP and add dual air lockers, but that is pretty niche, and an ORP is a highly capable setup, and with sliders and a suspension upgrade even more so.

OP update:

I have decided to put my Man Card at risk and re... rea... um... read the instructions. I found the link to the Owners Manual (below). There's also a Quick Reference Guide that has brief descriptions. I think those will tell me what I need to know about the features themselves.

I might follow up to get some input from you experts on what features/options would be desirable for my intended mission.

Info link: 2023 Toyota 4runner Manuals & Warranties | Toyota Owners

You really need to start with a very honest description of what you will actually use this vehicle for. You won't need a locker or a lift to go to the lake with your kayaks, or tow the tent trailer to KOA. You don't need full time 4x4, and probably don't want it if you never drive on slick streets and roads. That said, if you are doing some very aggressive rock crawling, then lockers are a must, including the Transfer case. Especially with IFS front ends. If it a highway cruiser with some light off road and county roads, don't waste your time with a runner, just buy the GX. In fact if you find the limited runner is on the very short list, just buy the GX. not just a bit more car, but A LOT MORE CAR!
Thats what happened to us. WE originally were planning on the runner, so glad we opted for the GX.

probably your best bet is to look at the ebrochures. some good descriptions as well as comparisons between trims

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