Just look at the curb weights on both vehicles. It's almost half a ton. Granted the V8 definitely adds some weight over the V6, but even subtracting from that I have a hard time believing that there's a 500lb+ delta in just interior components. There's only so many options you can tick, and things like heated seats and levinson speakers only weigh so much over the Toyota counterparts.

Quality wise, both are quality products. But the 4Runner is built more cheaply, plain and simple, because they are building to a cheaper price. Even though most of their products share platforms that frequently run off the same assembly lines, Toyota places tighter tolerances on the Lexus products. And the Prado sold under the Toyota name is sold as a premium sport utility vehicle over cheaper alternatives like the FJ, Fortuner, and LC70.

I agree though, I don't see why Lexus product would be significantly more reliable. Like you mention, fancier electronics and new direct injection systems are more problematic, if anything. But in the case of the GX, it's got the V8 straight from the Tundra and Sequoia, and a nav system that's about a decade old so those aren't a concern.

We know without a doubt that the frames are the same with a slight difference in length. Every suspension component is interchangeable and uses the same part numbers. Most of the Prados come with either a 4cyl or the 1GR like the 4runner. The only differences are the engine/transmission/and body/interior. That is what adds up to the weight difference. They share many of the same interior parts as well. Everything that can be shared is. The components under the dash for example like heater blower motors - same part numbers. The GX weight cancels out the extra power though. They have nearly identical performance.

A Prado150 with a 1GR 5 door weighs as little as 4,400lbs - exactly the same as a 4runner 4x2. A Prado 150 4x4 with a 1GR is around 4800lbs (many more variations) A Trail 4runner (closest cousin) weighs 4,750lbs. GVWR is identical (almost) at 6300 for the 4runner and 6,283 for the Prado 150 (2,850kg). Any way you slice it - they're the same car with different options.

Also the Prado is cheaper than an LC70 in markets that both are sold. The LC76 is the closest comparison and it actually is built significantly more robustly. Axles, suspension, etc. are all heavier. They have 9.5" ring gears compared to 8" for the 150 series. Side by side - that's a huge difference. It's Dana 60 vs Dana 44. It's also offered with a v8 diesel that's not an option for a Prado. It's basically a 3/4ton vs half ton comparison between the two.
This is a pic of a ring gear from a Prado/GX/4runner with one from an LC70 for comparison.


In a perfect world we'd get a left hand drive LC76 with a 4.5L diesel or the 4.6L v8 on one end and have the RX on the other end of the spectrum and offer everything in between. As it sits we're pretty limited on options. The GX is tilted to highway driving and the 4runner is tilted to more utility use.

Haven't really found the answer yet, but here in Toronto, Canada, Gx’s are worth considerably more than 4th gen v8’s.
Probably close to 50% more for something in comparable trim and mileage.
..not complaining as I bought my v8 at prices way lower than I see my ameri-friends signing for.

I just wanted to send out a 'thank you' to all of you that have weighed-in on this topic, it is GREATLY appreciated.

Today I made a decision...

After TREMENDOUS deliberation, over a period of several months, I made a move today. I am now the owner of a new 2016 Nautical Blue 4Runner Limited with Redwood interior.

It was a very difficult choice, however as badly as I wanted a V8 and stronger customer service I could not justify an extra $8-13k. This Limited has pretty much everything on it that was available to the 4Runner model, and I walked out of the dealership with a happy face, knowing I just bought a vehicle with absolutely incredible resale value and reliability to at least 250k...or much more.

I tried and tried to find a GX with JUST the equipment on it that I wanted (a base GX in Nightfall Mica with just nav, no other extras) and not pay for items I didn't care about, and just couldn't find a new base GX for a sticker of $53,9XX. EVERY ONE of them, from Vegas to Texas, were at minimum $56k (most were at least $58k Premium models) with lots of equipment I didn't want. Three extra grand may not sound like alot of money over 5-7 years, but $3k is $3k no matter how you slice it (let alone $10k for the diff in price of a Limited v Base GX with very limited equipment), especially when Lexus may not approve what I want to build (as I was told by three diff Lexus dealerships).

Again, thanks for all you do and the assistance you've given. Ppl like you make this a great board to participate in.

Have a great evening.

DD92

Enjoy your 4Runner! They're great vehicles, and with the resale being what it is, you always have options. Sounds like you made a good choice.

Pics!!!