After the 3rd gen., are you able to get factory metal bumpers and a manual tranny?

[Benski]

Sometimes I get to thinking about getting a newer 4Runner. I have metal bumpers which I use, and a 5 speed manual transmission which I love. Can you get them on later models? I'm going to need a tow hitch and a roof rack also. Why would a SUV come with plastic bumpers, and without a roof rack?

 

[OkieMedic]

Your only option for a manual would be an FJ.

 

[Unner]

Tacoma has a metal rear bumper and manual transmission option. Not an SUV though. How do you "use" your metal bumpers? Stock 3rd gen bumpers might as well be tin foil...

 

[techno]

Why would a SUV come with plastic bumpers, and without a roof rack?

Because plastic is cheaper and much easier to manufacture into any shape possible. Doesn't corrode either. Not including aftermarket steel bumpers, I prefer plastic because it doesn't rust and they deal with minor bumps and scrapes much better because they flex more without permanent deformation.
However, I love the ARB bumper on my 3rd gen. It can withstand a tremendous amount of use/abuse.

Most people don't need or use roof racks, regardless of what type of vehicle they have.

 

[Ghostrider]

Tacoma has a metal rear bumper and manual transmission option. Not an SUV though. How do you "use" your metal bumpers? Stock 3rd gen bumpers might as well be tin foil...

Had the chrome bumpers on my 2001 and never had an issue with "tin foil" in 16 years. They more than met expectations since all I had to do was wash the bugs off them. Already have a rock chip on plastic of my 2016 after three months.

 

[Benski]

I use my racks all of the time. I used to load lumber and ladders on them a few times a week. I even added an extra crossbar to spread the weight. Now I have a roof cargo box I keep camping gear and beach chairs in.

I use my bumpers when I'm off roading by it pushing branches and dirt out of my way. They have been through a lot of snow that probably would have ripped plastic bumpers off. They are original and still look great. If my bumpers were plastic, they would be terribly scratched and dented by now.

 

[jwkilgore]

Sometimes I get to thinking about getting a newer 4Runner. I have metal bumpers which I use, and a 5 speed manual transmission which I love. Can you get them on later models? I'm going to need a tow hitch and a roof rack also. Why would a SUV come with plastic bumpers, and without a roof rack?

Yes, you can get factory metal bumpers and roof racks, except the factories are owned by Shrockworks, ARB, Demello, Gobi, Baja, etc.
Tow hitches are standard.

No possibility for a manual tranny, unless you count "sport mode" shifting. :nono:

 

[Majindan]

Had the chrome bumpers on my 2001 and never had an issue with "tin foil" in 16 years. They more than met expectations since all I had to do was wash the bugs off them. Already have a rock chip on plastic of my 2016 after three months.

I'd say you got lucky. Those bumpers are notorious for rusting out, and if you have one without rust already eating it from the inside out, I'd put some POR or something on it ASAP.

 

[Ghostrider]

I'd say you got lucky. Those bumpers are notorious for rusting out, and if you have one without rust already eating it from the inside out, I'd put some POR or something on it ASAP.

It helps to live in Austin. Harder to rust with no rain and 110 degreee

I would prefer them on my 2016 in a heartbeat. Even if I have to rechrome in 7 years or so - I don't have the endless paint chips and nicks

 

[Kev9180]

I've always driven manual and i was iffy about getting a 4th gen since they only came automatic, but I caved and I actually love it. I still miss shifting and the feel that only a manual trans can give you, but a 4Runner is a 4Runner! lol