You assume everyone WANTS these options. I for one wanted neither. We pay more up front yes(or overpay as you say) but when it's time to sell the vehicle, we make more back. If an owner plans to keep it forever as some do, then what's a few grand spent over the rest of your life?
This is the only forum I've ever been on where a special, limited production model is shit on constantly.
No one really cares, they are all virtually the same mechanically and I would argue the limited is the most noticeable in its differences (AWD to me is more different then Locker and KDSS). However if you want a rant, read below
Its because there have been, and always will be. A select few Pro owners who think that the Pro really is
something special and gladly paid MSRP or over and most of us think that is ludicrous. Is it fair to judge a everyone by those standards no, and for the most part this gets blown out of proportion but to jump on the band wagon. The Pro is not special unless you get the 3 unique colors it was offered in that no other trim line had, even then it is just paint.....not a V8 drivetrain.
Is an BMW M3 noticeably different then a 328 - Yes. Is an Audi S4 noticeably different then a A4 - Yes. In both cases, the cost to convert the lower trim to the upper is prohibitive if not down right impossible due to complete drivetrain, body work and interior differences. The TRD Pro is not like that, some wheels, suspension, and a couple cosmetic items and you have something that is mechanically and visually identical expect for a Vin number......and those items are no better factory installed or installed in my garage.
Nothing wrong with the TRD Pro , its mechanically 99% the same truck as the rest. By far the largest difference "mechanically" offered in the 4runner line up is E-lockers (although this is easy to add-air locker), AWD Torsion T3 in the Limited, and KDSS as an option on Trail models. If you paid a reasonable price, welcome to the club, if you paid a huge mark up, welcome to the club but would love to know how your mind works (do you buy $60 Tee's with some graphic on them? or $280 dollar Nike running vests - Went to Chicago last weekend and about fell over at what some of the stuff was priced at.) But its not my money so really.....meh just don't think yours is better then mine, we are equals along with the lowly SR5 owners:nod: