5th Gen SR5 vs. 4th Gen SR5

[JustCreepin']

Hi,

First post, after lots of lurking. Based a variety of reasons (reliability, quality, durability, 4WD/AWD-ness), I've been looking at 4Runners. TONS of great info here - you guys rock!

My situation: I test drove a 2012 Highlander SE & 2012 RWD 4Runner SR5 - hands down, I liked how the 4Runner "felt" and thought it was more comfortable, absorbed imperfections (read potholes, uneven pavement) better, and was quieter at the same speed as the Highlander. I'm actually looking for the "floaty" and "softer" ride - so I don't think I need to test drive the Limited (TE is out due to need for 3rd row seats).

This got me looking at available inventory, other sources, used 4Runners, etc. I found a pretty good deal on a 2008 4WD SR5 (I believe the 4th Gen has the option of running fulltime 4WD, correct?), but wanted some input as to the comfort/soft ride of a 4th Gen vs. 5th Gen SR5.

Any thoughts/experiences - SR5 to SR5?

Thanks!

 

[ZJumper]

I'll give you my 2 cents in comparing the 4th Gen to the 5th Gen as I have both. When I got the 5th Gen, I was actually looking for a well taken care of 4th Gen and couldn't find one I liked. It seems like people are holding onto the 4th Gen T4R's. Here's just a few "impressions" of each--granted one is a SR5 and one is a Limited.

My ride: 2011 T4R 4x4 SR5--currently at 3700 miles
-Averages 22 MPG on the highway
-Rock magnet front windshield
-Much softer/floaty ride
-Quieter
-Feels much "bigger" when driving
-More cargo room in the back
-Bluetooth phone/audio is nice
-Engine feels more sluggish--takes more pedal to get it up to speed
-Downshifts more often in hilly terrain
-Oil changes are more involved--dropping skid plates/weird cartridge filter

Wifes ride: 2004 T4R 4x4 Limited 4.0L--currently at 148K miles--dead nuts reliable. We've only had to replace the water pump and the HVAC blower motor.
-Averages 21 MPG on the highway
-Ride is firmer and more "sporty" but still very comfortable
-Not as quiet
-Feels smaller and more nimble
-Not as much cargo room as a 5th Gen but still enough
-Engine feels more responsive and "quicker"
-Holds in gear without downshifting in hilly terrain
-Super easy oil changes

The 4th Gen full time 4x4 (I think) can only be found with the V8 option.

 

[dorskh]

I have had both also...i like the power my v8 4th ten had but i LOVE the ride,size,features,cargo space and overall driving experience of my 5th gen limited...and everyone is right,,,,,the windshield LOVES rocks..i have about 5 chips that i have had to get fixed!!!

 

[sunnyside]

4th gen sr5 has multi-mode full time 4WD system. You can run 2 rear wheel drive, but you also can run full-time 4WD once you engage to 4HI.