4Runner vs. GX

[turbomech7]

4runner

For features....GX

For Looks/toughness....4runner (hands down)

If I had the $$ Id go for GX but I came across several people who thought the GX was minivan-like when it first came out (kinda like the Mercedes M series)... even I doubted its SUV capabilties before I found out about its platform/capabilities/world origin (prado)

another point: gotta hate the barn door - I had a friend with a Rav4 (same thing) who HATED it as well... (you loose the tailgate/shade/raincover)....my $.02

 

[ToyotaDan]

thanks that was a big help! so what do ya'll think? if they were the same price, which one would you get???

I would get the Lexus if money was no object. Having said that, if you want something done, like a lift kit, I would rather do it on the 4runner, because most installers have already done it on another 4runner - and even though the lexus is almost the same, the almost is what gets you.

 

[Boston_Runner]

Re: 4Runenr Limited vs. GX470

I assume that the GX you proced out did not have KDSS. Adding the Sport Package brings the difference closer to $10K (and obviously the GX comes with a few more goodies at that point) I drove all versions and would probably not buy a GX w/o the KDSS. Of course I don't think I would have purchased a 4Runner w/o X-REAS either (which might make the Sport model the best 4Runner value!)

I concur with Koz. While I like the quieter ride and greater headroom of the GX, I like the exterior styling of the Runner as well as the center console. After driving all variations of each vehicle, I think the 4Runner handles better with tless body roll and lean-in and is quicker too boot (less weight). I also don't think I could live with the GX's rear barn door and non-opening window.

Opinions vary.

The GX and the 4runner limited I look at, both dont have the optional suspension or the Nav. As far as exterior styling, its all subjective of course, I like the GX front end and side view better but I prefer the 4runner from the back. As you mentioned, I also like the 4runner's center console better, but the dash, door mounted controls, instrumentment panel, seats and the HVAC controls are much better on the GX.
I also drove all the versions of both, and I thought that the KDSS was much better than the X-REAS and the GX and the 4runner without the optional suspension were about the same. Both had body lean around corners, as a big truck should, I find the body lean a good warning system to let you know, hey buddy, slow down.
I thought the accelaration were about the same, or too close to notice. I think the GX is only about 200 pounds heavier than the V8 4runner limited with 4WD. As far as the barn door is concerned, I didnt like it at first too but it has grown on me, and my wife and my 10 year old loves it. I do wish it had a power rear window though.

 

[mowCOUGAR]

In my opinion, the GX a very nice rig, and I think it is on the same chassis as the 4runner, but not worth it. I call it a pavement princess....

I traded in a BMW for another 4runner jsut because of the pretentiousness that the luxury car carried. Al-be-it, NICE, but just more practical in a 4runner for me....

Like I said, my opinion thats it....

Now if it were the new Range Rover Supercharged... hmmmm

 

[Boston_Runner]

Hummm a Range Rover, talk about pretentiousness, another $20000 and it is less relieable. You might as well buy a Mercedes-Benz G500.