2002 or 2004 T4R? I'm undecided

[Vantage85]

I had the exact same question about 3 months ago.

I tested about 10 96-02 4runner's (limited) and about 8 2003+'s.

The newer model is leaps and bounds better.

The layflat rear seats, more useable interior space, roomier feeling, ride and POWER are main reasons why I bought the 4th gen.

I had owned a 2002 Tacoma and always felt the 3.4L V6 was lacking, and coming to the V8 4runner I am amazed everytime i drive it. So much low end grunt, decent gas mileage and a super smooth ride are a dream.

My old V6 Tacoma with 33's and armor got 15mpg
My new V8 4runner with 32's gets 17mpg.

If you haven't tested a 2003+ yet, do it. Once you drive one you will never go back.

 

[Vantage85]

Also I would NOT narrow your search to V6's only.

The gas mileage as many will say is nearly identical, with the V6 getting 1-2 MPG more.

Take it from me, the V8 is a marvelous engine and I am happy to fill up 3-5 times more a year to compensate for it.

 

[03_4x4Runner]

The front seats are to low to the floor on the 02 and older models for me. I do not like my legs extended out like in a small car. I like setting in a upright position like sitting in a chair like on the 03 and newer.

 

[Dacia]

Thanks for the additional search engines. This list included a few that I didn't know about.

I didn't give any real consideration to the 2003 because I've read that it is typically better to stay clear of first year model for each generation. Not sure that it matters, but I read that typically with the first models there are usually a few kinks/quirks that get ironed out in the latter years. I know 2004 is just 1 additional year, but I don't think my budget requirements will allow for a 2005 or 2006.

I'm definitely open to getting a V8 if it will fit my budget. I just don't want another 4 cyclinder. I've only had 4 cyclinder vehicles and I'm ready for an upgrade. Nothing more annoying than trying to quickly merge into flowing traffic in a 4 cyclinder.

 

[Meathead40]

I've owned both 3rd gen and 4th gen Runners... and the 4th gen is so absolutely dramatically better than the 3rd gen in most categories. If I were you I would strongly suggest you invest in an 03 or 04, you will be pleased. I love my 05 sport ed.

 

[03_4x4Runner]

Thanks for the additional search engines. This list included a few that I didn't know about.

I didn't give any real consideration to the 2003 because I've read that it is typically better to stay clear of first year model for each generation. Not sure that it matters, but I read that typically with the first models there are usually a few kinks/quirks that get ironed out in the latter years. I know 2004 is just 1 additional year, but I don't think my budget requirements will allow for a 2005 or 2006.

I'm definitely open to getting a V8 if it will fit my budget. I just don't want another 4 cyclinder. I've only had 4 cyclinder vehicles and I'm ready for an upgrade. Nothing more annoying than trying to quickly merge into flowing traffic in a 4 cyclinder.

I have a 03 V8 4x4. I bought it new. It has never had a problem. It has never been in the shop for anything other than the lift kit and the timing belt I did myself last year. It still looks and runs like new but it only has 57k miles on it, many of them off road in the desert.

 

[cdoyle]

Also I would NOT narrow your search to V6's only.

The gas mileage as many will say is nearly identical, with the V6 getting 1-2 MPG more.

Take it from me, the V8 is a marvelous engine and I am happy to fill up 3-5 times more a year to compensate for it.

:iagree:
I love the V8, it's just such a smooth engine. You step on it and it goes without even a wimper.

 

[Uneek]

On the 4th gen, only the Limited came with leather. The SR5 and Sport Edition came with cloth. This was how they came from the factory. But a lot of SR5 and Sport Edition have port installed leather, or it was done by the dealer or owner. Port installed leather, especial if it's from the Gulf States region had Liquid Cell leather. A popular choice by members here is Classic Soft Trim (CST), many of which report CST leather is softer than the OEM Limited leather.

Some early 2003s had a recall for (I believe was) the fuel rail on the V6. It was caught early and the number was pretty low.

 

[scottm]

I prefer the looks of the '02, and it's easier to modify for off-roading, and cheaper than an '03+. But I don't offroad, and I make regular long highway trips, where the more sophisticated 4th-gen is significantly more comfortable and safer. Comparing the two, the 3rd-gen is more of a mini-truck, and the 4th-gen is more of a heavy-duty, 4WD station wagon.

I searched for nearly six months for '01-'05 4Runners, found a killer deal on my '03, and I'm very happy. I've had a few older Land Cruisers, this isn't as heavy-duty, but seems to do everything well.

 

[2003-4x4runner]

Go with the 4th Gen.

I was also looking at a 2002 but the 2003 was so much better. You should go with the 2003 or the 2004 :cheers: