2011 4Runner vs 2005 4Runner

[poorboy44]

I'm new to this forum and considering purchasing a 2011 SR5 4WD. I currently own a 2005 SR5 2WD, which I love except it's 2WD... it wasn't as big a deal when I lived in SoCal, but I now live in Colorado and need 4WD.

I test drove the 2011 model the other day. I liked it, but I felt like acceleration wasn't as responsive as my 2005. However I checked the specs and it looks like on the 2011 models have more 270 HP vs 236 HP for the 2005. The model I drove is 4WD, so it is heavier than my existing vehicle. I am wondering if this explains all of the difference I experienced in my test drive.

Also, during my test drive I made sure to turn the "Eco Model" off.

Does anyone else have any experiences comparing 2011 vs 2005 models?

 

[kmiller8821]

There are quite a lot of changes, given that your 05 is a "4th Gen" and the 2011 is the "5th Gen". Theres a lot of redesign, and there are a multitude of feature changes (ie.. headlights, LED tail lights, etc) There are quiet a few threads in this forum that go over a lot of the changes. I would suggest using the search feature at the top to find specific information.

The V6 in this vehicle has a slightly different acceleration curve so you have to really get "on the gas" to feel it kick in. It's not a bad engine, and the gas mileage is actually improved.

BTW, the "ECO" thing is just an indicator light and has no bearing on performance.


Welcome to the FORUM, be sure to let us know if you get a 5th gen we'd love to have ya.

 

[myk1013]

I agree the accelaration feels quite sluggish. And when you pay attention to the "eco mode" light, having to really step on the gas for some extra kick feels like I'm burning fuel like crazy.

I didn't know you can turn off the ECO mode light

 

[philsey]

Agree, it's tuned and set up differently. Coming from a Pathfinder, which just plain jumps off the line, I at first thought the 4R was a dog.

1) If you want it to go, it'll go brother! You just have to get on it to do so.
2) All members here also agree it "loosens up" with a few K miles, and performance and mileage improve.

Go for it, you'll like it ---- but yes, it is different..... took me a little while to get used to it.

 

[hamiltonj2w1]

I went from an 04 4WD to a 10 TE for the first week or two I felt bad cause I really loved my 04 but I am so glad I got the new 4runner

 

[DigableKid]

I know how you feel... I had an 07' SR5, all time 4X4 with a V8 and it hauled ass when you needed it to. My father-in-law saying, "I like the other Runner better cause it had a strong engine" didn't help either. Transitioning back to a V6 is going to take some time I guess. I'll open it up once I feel it has been broken in a bit and then I'll make a determination on if there's a considerable difference.

You will love the new Runner though... bet on that.

 

[DigableKid]

I don't miss the sudden jerk the 07' had. I know a little grease on the pin fixes it temporarily but I paid too much for that ride for that to happen.