I stopped by the Toyota Dealer yesterday to get the service done on my GF's Corolla. Guess what was hanging out in the show room? All-in-all the TRD Pro is pretty nice. I like the black on black look, obviously. Below is a list of my pros and cons: (IMOP)
Pro:
Exterior Styling - To me, it just looks meaner than my 4th Gen. The 'Toyota' emblem helps with the look too. However, the chrome '4Runner' emblem on the back ruins it for me (will have to be re-painted immediately.)
Ergonomics - Everything felt tighter, more functional, and easier to use.
Interior - More refined, I really like the black-leather with red stitching.
Storage - Definitely like the stealth storage compartment in the back behind the tray. Reminds me of the storage compartments in the old FJ's tailgate.
Suspension - Decent upgrade and I like the look of the red springs. More than enough for a person wanting the look with occasional off-road fun.
Tires - I have the same tires so I can't complain. Decent tire for minimal off-road use.
Ultimately, the TRD Pro definitely has an off-road feel requiring little modification for the occasional novice off-roader (IMOP). All the extra power-ports, storage compartments, and ergonomics will definitely come in handy and are a significant upgrade (stock vs. having to add it) to my 4th Gen.
Con:
Engine - Under-powered (IMOP). The V6 felt very sluggish to me. Coming from a V8, I really like the power and torque my 4th Gen has. Not that I am doing 100mph everywhere, but getting up to speed is really important with all the highway driving I do. It doesn't help with towing either. The Lexus GX460 has the V8 still so I am lost as to why it was dropped from the 5th Gen.
Transmission - Why does the Lexus GX460 have a 6-speed transmission and this one still has a 5-speed? Mechanically, they are the same SUV (Right?).
Running Boards - Not sure why running boards are not included. The Trail Edition has them. Granted I would probably add the N-Fab ones anyway.
Grab bar - I might have missed it, but from what I recall there are no grab bars/handles inside. I use mine all the time.
Price - This thing is expensive, $46K OTD. Compared against the Trail Edition, I definitely don't think the badges, suspension, wheels, and tires are worth the @ $4K price difference. I really like the wheels though so I guess I'll buy it; wait, never mind there just Mickey Thompson SideBiter II's.
Overall, while the TRD Pro has great looks (IMOP) and functionality, I feel it falls short on power, efficiency, and price. The 4Runner use to be an affordable off-road capable vehicle. I know what some of you might say about resale value, worth, and it lasting forever (My parents and I have 3 between us); but, I feel like I should be pushing $40K not $50K (pushing $50K we should at least get a turbo). Ultimately, I will be passing on the TRD Pro. While it is beautiful and I'll certainly be envious of them on the road, I feel it best to hold out for the 6th Gen. With that said, I am really looking forward to what Toyota does with the 2016 Tacoma. Hopefully, it'll be a hint of things to come for the 4Runner. Plus, I doubt Toyota will drop the TRD Pro line before then.