2015. Base SR5.. Looks great to me but.. Should I hold off

[Pete from mass]

WARNING: My first post as a new member.

I am buying my first Toyota 4runner (previous was Honda pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee). and I saw base SR5 that I liked a lot. I actually thought it was really well equipped.

My application ..
I am old (55) and LOVE to fly fish... When I drive up to Maine I drive down Gravel logging roads in the Allagash Wilderness. The roads are well travelled and pretty smooth but the gravel is loose and kicks up. I sometimes drive for an hour or more down these roads (they shred tires). And when I get close to some water, I'll go down some bumpy swampy trails... Nothing extreme but very messy and muddy and wet...with the occasional rut and rock.

Will the SR5 be a good match ... Or should I jump up to a TRAIL?...
I do like the Base SR5. But maybe I'm not seeing something obvious.

Sorry for the dumb question. But all the videos on line are showing the trail and the trd. Most of the reviews are on the Trail. But the SR5 looks pretty good. And it's on the dealers lot and I can get it for about 34k (listed for 38.5). As you know the Trails are more ... Is the Trail the entry point for logging roads and crappy paths. Or will the SR5 be Ok...
I thank you for your wisdom!
Pete

 

[2014 Warthog]

The SR5 and Trail are a lot more alike than different.

The trail comes with an extra electronic control for crawling and a locker.

A locker would seem to be of good service occasionally in the terrain you mentioned with rutty, muddy roads. However! The SR5 and trail also come with "ATRAC" when in 4 low which works awesomely for that exact situation. And better than JUST a rear locker, ATRAC works on front and rear axles.

So the upshot really is, unless you were doing something quite extreme and trying to crawl over big rocks, the SR5 would be perfect for you.

Disclaimer! I have an SR5 And also, I did have a locker installed "Just in case" due to my actually doing some mild rock crawling. But for the months that I didn't have the locker and 99% of the time since, the ATRAC had no problem getting me through some pretty rough terrain!

 

[Pete from mass]

Thanks Warthog.
I appreciate you highlighting the ATRAC.
It's hard to wade through the controlled hype of marketing brochures.

I like functional & practical. The SR5 appeals to me because it doesn't have a sunroof. And it seems to be very basic and functional with a lot of capability.
I was worried about protection to the underbody (And if this would be like the pilot simply an adequate car to go through a snow bank on the way to work).

I know this sounds pathetically lame ... But I am actually excited about a no frills practical and strong car for exploring fishing spots.. I just didn't know if the occasional washed out trail requires something more.
Again, thank you!

 

[Jernik]

If I recall correctly, at least when I was looking, the bump to a Trail Edition (no KDSS) was only $1,000 or so over a 4x4 SR5. For what you describe, I think the SR5 would be adequate, but for such little extra money... well, I'm one of those guys that would rather "have it and not need it" than "need it and not have it". Of course, it depends on if you like hood scoops too. I guess for $1K you could add a rear locker and maybe have a little left over if you went the SR5 route.

If the Pilot got you there I'm sure the SR5 will have no problems.

 

[Pete from mass]

The scoop is cool but I can live with out it.
I've been trying to figure out if the protection underneath is much better with the trail.

The KDSS looks like it would smooth out the logging roads and bumps...
But that's not on all Trails... So is a trail without KDSS going to do anything beyond cosmetics?

I really do appreciate all your insights...I know you have a ton of experience.

 

[1engineer]

The scoop is cool but I can live with out it.
I've been trying to figure out if the protection underneath is much better with the trail.

The KDSS looks like it would smooth out the logging roads and bumps...
But that's not on all Trails... So is a trail without KDSS going to do anything beyond cosmetics?

I really do appreciate all your insights...I know you have a ton of experience.

Here you go Pete:
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/186247-5th-gen-features-models-differences.html
I did this for people exactly like you.

 

[Pete from mass]

Engineer,
People like me really appreciate that you broke it down.
I wish I was a little more technically astute.... So I need what your sharing.

If I go with SR5 it means I'm missing outl on this stuff.
-KDSS Suspension
-Multi Mode 4WD controls
-Rear E Locker
-Lever actuated Automatic Disconnecting Differential instead of Electric Actuated.

Dam ... I wish I knew more... ( I really have been reading up on this...but i still feel like a moron).

I can't tell if there is something in this list that would really make me make the jump from the SR5 (I just don't have the experience with these systems).

Are any of these things at the level where you say I'm really glad I got them and makes off road a lot better...

KDSS sounds pretty good but I think I can still explore a trail without it.
Is there anything on the list that you really like as a feature and your glad you made the jump.

Thank you
Pete

 

[buchaja]

Hi Pete, I really like the crawl control feature of my TE. But, the only place I use it is on steep descents or ascents. Hills, very steep trails and such are very common out here. The rear locker offers peace of mind, but I may never actually need it.

From your post, I think you would be very happy in an SR5.

 

[1engineer]

Engineer,
People like me really appreciate that you broke it down.
I wish I was a little more technically astute.... So I need what your sharing.

If I go with SR5 it means I'm missing outl on this stuff.
-KDSS Suspension
-Multi Mode 4WD controls
-Rear E Locker
-Lever actuated Automatic Disconnecting Differential instead of Electric Actuated.

Dam ... I wish I knew more... ( I really have been reading up on this...but i still feel like a moron).

I can't tell if there is something in this list that would really make me make the jump from the SR5 (I just don't have the experience with these systems).

Are any of these things at the level where you say I'm really glad I got them and makes off road a lot better...

KDSS sounds pretty good but I think I can still explore a trail without it.
Is there anything on the list that you really like as a feature and your glad you made the jump.

Thank you
Pete

I had a 2010 SR5 and traded it on a 2012 Trail Edition with all the bells and whistles. I traded that for a 2015 SR5. I put 70K on the Trail Edition and several hundred miles on dirt. I do not rock crawl anymore but I probably run a bit harder trails than you will run. I have no problem running them with a stock SR5. You do need to read up on part time 4WD if you have not had one before. Read the links in my signature. Good luck.

 

[darrylj]

If the main tool for that day's activity is your 4runner... to test the limits of the truck and have a blast doing it, then you probably would prefer a Trail. If your main tool that day is something else (a rifle, a fishing pole, a tent) and the 4runner just has to get you to where you can use that tool and home again, the SR5 base is fine.

that maybe makes the base sound boring, but it isn't. It's still a hoot.

 

[Pete from mass]

You guys are extremely helpful.
The main tool of the day will be a fishing rod and a tent.
The 4Runner will be used to get me there... And the very Important part.. Get me out & back home. It's funny how it's possible (on even the most routine trip) to wedge yourself into a tough spot. My goal is to find a vehicle that will give me a reasonable chance of getting in and out.

It's sounding like the SR5 will be a solid choice.. The Trail Edition may be a better choice but it sounds like the SR5 is still pretty dam good. And from what I've seen I believe I'm making a big step forward from my old grand Cherokee and pilot.

Any suggestions on what I should think about when I close a sale with the dealer. Any add-ons or maintance or warranty advice?
the package is a 2015 black 4x4 SR5, Entune Audio with Nav, cargo cross bars for the roof, some mats and swapping the cloth seats for leather.

 

[Jernik]

Warranties and such, up to you. I don't bother with them, but some people like the added peace of mind.

The only thing you have left to do, IMO, is post some pics of your new 4Runner with some fish! :fish2:

 

[NoDak]

after you get your SR5, immediately delete all references to this website. the MOD virus will infect your computer and yourself if you stay around this website to long.

camping trailer
RTT (roof top tent)
etc will be your downfall for those fishing trips comfort mods

 

[Pete from mass]

I can't show you a pic of the 4Runner yet but this is what it will be used for.
- The Logging roads are pretty good ... but with the occasional wash out.
- The parking on the side can sometimes get you stuck when acting stupid.
- and sometimes we'll go through tall overgrown fields
-- they can be very unpredictable -- ditches & mud & just crappy stuff.

But the Brook Trout & Landlocked Salmon make it very worthwhile.
I am always in awe with the natural beauty and perfection of nature.

 

[Pete from mass]

As I get older... I am no longer thinking about how fast I can go.. but rather I just want to get there and then get home.
I don't want to put good friends at risk in the middle of nowhere... so a good reliable car hopefully will make things a little safer.
I wasn't being cute about the SR5 vs Trail questions... I was thinking what would be a good safe 4WD when your entrusted to take care of good friends.

 

[Jernik]

IMO the only dumb questions are the ones you DON'T ask. I'm new to Toyota too, but some of these guys really know their stuff and are generally happy to help.

Like the pics, beautiful country. The fish I usually catch are bait size. lol

And I see you're a fan of good beer too! :cheers:

 

[oljedi11950]

I'm like you Pete , did all the crazy shit back when ! Want a 4x4 that will do that & more , SR5 is it . Mild suspension upgrade & decent tires for your neck o the woods plenty good . I do the same for No Nv , Utah , & Mont. Dirt roads some good most bad . It'll get you to all your spots & back . And if by yourself easy to sleep n the back . Luv my SR5

 

[NoDak]

from the looks of those pics a SR5 should be just fine, especially since your doing that stuff in an older highlander.

the only thing I might look at down the road is maybe some full length skid plates underneath, but its not required really.

I do the same thing up here during fishing season, mostly dirt roads with mud, ruts and etc and I have yet to run into any issues even w/o the armor. the armor would be just piece of mind.

 

[NuclearN8]

Get the SR5 and get some good all terrain tires before leaving the dealer (trade in the factory ones, the dealer will give you some credit towards the new tires if you work it as part of the deal).


Cooper AT3's seem like they'd be a perfect fit for your use.
I have hankook dynapro atm's and goodyear wrangler all terrain adventure with kevlar tires on our 4runners (only cause cooper at3's were sold out both times) and love them both for the same use, a fishing expedition vehicle. Good luck.

 

[Jernik]

Get the SR5 and get some good all terrain tires before leaving the dealer (trade in the factory ones, the dealer will give you some credit towards the new tires if you work it as part of the deal).


Cooper AT3's seem like they'd be a perfect fit for your use.
I have hankook dynapro atm's and goodyear wrangler all terrain adventure with kevlar tires on our 4runners (only cause cooper at3's were sold out both times) and love them both for the same use, a fishing expedition vehicle. Good luck.

Good point!

Discount tire gave me $50 per tire for the factory ones that had 100 miles on them. Maybe not the best deal, but I didn't have to lug them around and deal with trying to sell them. I tried to get the dealer I bought from to do it, but they didn't want to mess with it. They straight up told me if I wanted something other than what they carried (basically what came from factory), I'd be better off to go somewhere else to get the tires. So I did. Other dealers may be more willing to accommodate.