Anyone come from Land Rover? Or G-wagon?

[HazemA]

Just thoughts if anyone has come over to the runner side and previously drove a land rover or g class?

These rigs we have are so capable, I don't see myself switching. I told myself the Runner would be a year long deal until I got a G-Class (I don't ever see myself buying a Land Rover product outside of the Defender) but now I see myself asking.. why? Why would I "upgrade"? With a few mods the 4Runners look fantastic, will rarely give us any trouble, and are dependable in almost any condition.

Anyone else have the means for a "better/more highend" rig and chose not to make the move?

 

[DaPole]

Always a tricky question to answer, when admitting you have the means, without coming off sounding like a douche. Nevertheless, yes. Years ago, before I was accepted to a university for a doctorate level degree, my wife promised me that if I finished I could reward myself after graduation with a very nice car. At that time, I had my eyes on a Jag XK-R (or RS if somehow available), or a G55 amg (two very different cars, but I loved the look of the xk-r, and my uncle owned a G55 that I actually quite liked). I had always owned trucks/SUVs, but had switched to a car for fuel economy. Somehow I had convinced myself that I didn't need or really want a 4WD vehicle anymore (looking back, I'm boggled by how I convinced myself of that). As time went on and I went through school, I missed having a truck more and more. I began to tell myself that perhaps I'll buy a used truck, and buy a used sports/luxury car, instead of taking a massive depreciation hit on a new car of that price.

Fast forward to August of last year, and we stopped in at a Toyota dealership out of pure curiosity, were able to get a nice deal on a used SR5, and left with the 4Runner that same night. As time has gone on, I've realized I really like the functionality of the 4R. Instead of spending who knows how much on a luxury car, I can pretty much put any mod I want on the 4R and still come out way cheaper. For me (us), as I got closer and closer to actually being able to put real money towards that kind of purchase, I realized that for the same amount of money, I could really go all-out on my other hobbies. Don't get me wrong, I'd love an XK-R or G-wagon, but I don't feel like I'd really get the proper amount of "value" out of what I'd be paying. But, keep in mind that while we fairly easily have the means to get it, the amount spent wouldn't be just a drop in the bucket for us, if that makes sense. If it was chump change, I'd probably be trying to convince you to buy the car

I think another thing keeping me sated with the 4R is the fun per $ of the vehicle. It's not a cheap vehicle, but it's also far from luxury territory. While it definitely doesn't satisfy the need for speed (mine has faded after getting rid of my car), it has already produced so many great memories in the 10 short months I've had. All the camping and wheeling trips are incredibly special times (getting sappy!). I just feel that a "more high-end" vehicle would not get close to that same return on investment, and that would end up frustrating me. Anyway, what you've said of the 4R is true: it's a great car that should last a long time and will take you many places. It all depends on if you think it's worth it. Only you can answer that.

 

[Jhalko]

Anyone else have the means for a "better/more highend" rig and chose not to make the move?

Plenty around here do, they also know the value of a dollar. The smart ones just move to a Land Cruiser though versus the options you mention.

 

[Blitzkrieg]

Meh.

I learned a long time ago to go after vehicles that work, make me happy and hold their value as well as possible.

I've owned some serious "Prestige" nameplates when I was younger and more attracted to driving a "super expensive" vehicle.

Here is the deal IMO:

Vehicles are supposed to be a reflection of ourselves. I get that.

But there are so many vehicles today that are over priced crap it's ridiculous.

Land Rover being #1 on the list. The yuppies love them because they can lease them for 3 years and walk away but they are junk. Expensive junk, but junk nonetheless.

Mercedes? My ex had an ML430 that was made in (I think Georgia or Tennessee) and it was a POS.

Maintenance on it was unreal. It was not even worth half what it cost but dammit, it had that badge and she wanted that badge.

I'll take my 4Runner any day of the week. Could I afford a more expensive vehicle? Yes. But why? The 4Runner is 3x most of the vehicles in it's class are and if you change the oil and give it a little love it will take care of you for a long, long time.

My .02

 

[bjohnston115]

I was a land rover guy before I figured out the Toyota trucks were far superior. Had a 96 range rover which was beautiful and capable, when it left the driveway. It was the biggest POS and I couldn't rely on it to get me to my neighbors house and home again. Sold it and got myself a 92 Land Cruiser and it is a thing of beauty. Knock on wood, i haven't had to do anything but put gas in my cruiser and would trust it to take me to Alaska and home right now. Buying a new cruiser is not practical to me right now and i just happen to love the look of the 5th gen so I'd say I got the right truck.

Having said that... the G class is in a league of its own. It is literally built like a tank. The thunk from closing the door is just amazing. It is super expensive, super capable and super awesome. Not the slightest bit practical for daily driving (or anything but military or overland travel) but would love to have one in my garage one day.

 

[Simpleman74]

while I have the means to purchase the vehicles you mention... common sense tells me a vehicle is not a good investment and for a fraction of their cost I could have a heavily modified 4runner

 

[jbjones85]

Coming from a background of the "prestige" cars I have loved the past year with the 4 runner, there is a certain peace of mind knowing that it is going to be bullet proof, practical, re-sale, and capable. Do I sometimes miss the refinement and the "lux" features, sure, but IMO what you gain is far more than you give up. The only "upgrade" I could see myself making at this point would be a LC a few years down the road.

 

[ncboxer]

I previously owned an 08 Range Rover Supercharged. It was the truck I always wanted....until I owned it.

Numerous problems, electrical, air suspension (vehicle would lower itself whenever it liked), cracked wheel, warped wheel, expensive routine maintenance, frequent reduced engine power, had to empty water & condensation out of the taillights monthly, adaptive headlights getting stuck, back up camera died, & only half the heated windshield worked (passenger side of course). Also numerous AC & heating issues. While many items were comfort the fact they were ill functioning bothered me more than the features themselves.

Never took the vehicle off road. Traded it in with the engine light on two years after purchase.

While I owned it I did partake in the Land Rover driving course at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, however they provide any Land Rover model of your choice. Was a great course and absolutely beautiful. The Range Rover I drove performed flawlessly. However knowing the high expense of repairs & decreased dependability it's not something I would've tackled in my

Last June I purchased a 14 4Runner Limited and I have never been happier. Live in coastal NC and it's performs wonderful on the local 4wd beach. Take it out multiple times each month. I have removed the running boards (did not use them) and am contemplating new wheels. I would like to visit western NC this fall & try some trails.

I look forward to many years with the 4Runner. It's such a nice feeling to have a reliable, capable vehicle. I can't imagine ever driving anything else.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[KingTaco]

I am just a dumb GOVT worker, but my wife is a Dr, and sometimes she buys me pretty things. I had a X5 before my current T4R, and I'm thrilled to have 50 less things to worry about every time I turn the key. Personally, the peace of mind far outweighs the appeal of the bells and whistles. The Toyota just makes so much more sense for me. I could go on, but [MENTION=29011]Blitzkrieg[/MENTION] said it well already. Besides, it's not like we're driving '88 Volvos. Like you said; it's still a great looking, dependable vehicle. Good luck with your decision!

 

[Jetboy]

I always find the perception of the G wagon or LR to be an odd thing. I've spent a fair amount- a week and about 500 miles - of time in a 2015 RR and I wasn't impressed in the least. Yes it's expensive. There was a time when Land Rover or Mercedes offered a big difference in interior amenities, ride quality, and comfort. But those days have passed. LR and Mercedes to a large degree are the buggy maker when the Model T came out. They're both too small to seriously contend with the advanced manufacturing and research that larger companies like Toyota have. It's why they can't compete on the race track and they can't seriously compete on the sales floor. And this is pretty obvious as LR moves to share platforms with the Ford Focus and Ford Explorer. LR can't economically develop its own in-house tech that is competitive with the big players.

Yet they still maintain a perception of a premium product. The time frame of reliance on past is limited. Cadillac once held a similar premium perception. Among my generation neither RR or Mercedes have any cache. I suspect their days are numbered as the older generation fades and the younger one doesn't find any value in the brand image.

To be entirely honest - if I wanted a premium upscale SUV with no intention of really doing offroad or utility work, I'd seriously look at a Yukon/Tahoe. I'd probably buy a LC200/LX570 for reliability reasons, but side by side the GM full size suvs are simply better luxury suvs - better seats, better ride, better tech, quieter interior, etc. than any of the luxury brand models.

 

[Koddo]

There would be no way, NO WAY, you could get me out 4 wheeling out in the boonies in AZ during the summer in a British POS LR product (defender very much included). G-Wagon, that's hilarious. In my opinion there are two vehicles that fit the niche of what people on this forum like to enjoy - 4R and Jeep Wrangler. So really your pick is between the two. There's always those people here that pretend like they are going to get a lexus and chop the crap out of it and do this and that but those are the unicorns.

The only other viable competitor might be in a couple years when Ford reintroduces the Bronco. It'll probably be based on the midsize Ranger platform and with luck be BOF. But that's really it about it.

If you're considering other vehicles than the 4R and its not a Wrangler, really the other vehicles are probably better options. You won't be using the 4R for it purpose and might as well go for refinement....these are the people that trade in their 4R after 1-3 years of ownership.

my 2c

 

[nb rob]

Any comparison of vehicle reliability I've seen recently (and I went on a tear looking for this)-- Lexus is at the top, and toyota is not far behind.

The 4runner is built at the Tahara plant, which is a miracle of modern production to begin with. The IS250 and 4runner are hands down the most trouble-free vehicles I've ever driven. And that's what I want on my mind when I'm heading deep in to the woods.

Of the 2 LR owners I talked to when shopping, they both steered me away with ferocity.
Their stories usually have a clause "oh-- it get's worse..."
No thanks.

 

[AntleredRuin]

Granted, I drive a '99 model right now, but I've test driven a few different 5th gen T4Rs and luxury vehicles.

Aside from the nameplate/ badge, I honestly don't understand the appeal of the luxury vehicle class. The newest 5th gens feel plenty luxurious enough and are a fraction of the price, as other people have mentioned. Any 'toys' that luxury vehicles have will be available on non-luxury vehicles the following year. The 'luxury' is more based on cosmetics now, than practicality. It used to be that 'luxury' was power windows, seats, mirrors, cruise control, etc. These have been standard issue on most vehicles, even in the working class since the 90s/early 2000s.
IMO, as far as real usable, luxury vehicle advantages go, they haven't been worth it since the mid 2000s because it's all mostly cosmetics or 'infotainment' (which can all be purchased aftermarket anyways, and still save you thousands).
If you want, get a 'Limited' T4R, and there's your luxury.

 

[catastrofe]

I previously owned an 08 Range Rover Supercharged. It was the truck I always wanted....until I owned it.

Numerous problems, electrical, air suspension (vehicle would lower itself whenever it liked), cracked wheel, warped wheel, expensive routine maintenance, frequent reduced engine power, had to empty water & condensation out of the taillights monthly, adaptive headlights getting stuck, back up camera died, & only half the heated windshield worked (passenger side of course). Also numerous AC & heating issues. While many items were comfort the fact they were ill functioning bothered me more than the features themselves.

Never took the vehicle off road. Traded it in with the engine light on two years after purchase.

While I owned it I did partake in the Land Rover driving course at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, however they provide any Land Rover model of your choice. Was a great course and absolutely beautiful. The Range Rover I drove performed flawlessly. However knowing the high expense of repairs & decreased dependability it's not something I would've tackled in my

Last June I purchased a 14 4Runner Limited and I have never been happier. Live in coastal NC and it's performs wonderful on the local 4wd beach. Take it out multiple times each month. I have removed the running boards (did not use them) and am contemplating new wheels. I would like to visit western NC this fall & try some trails.

I look forward to many years with the 4Runner. It's such a nice feeling to have a reliable, capable vehicle. I can't imagine ever driving anything else.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Similar experience here. In 2013 I purchased a 2012 CPO Range Rover Supercharged, and like you, it was a "dream vehicle" for me. All the power/speed I could want along with the utility of an SUV. Kept it less than a year, as within 6 months time it needed new brakes and new air suspension bladders. Luckily covered under warranty, but I could see the writing on the wall for future maintenance. Went from the Rover to a Jeep Rubicon Unlimited, then to a Jeep Cherokee before making it back to a T4R (owned one in 1992).

Every once in awhile I miss the Rover's amenities, but then I think about potential repair bills and I smile happily that I'm in a Toyota.

 

[Swampmonger]

Unfortunately, many people "have the means" to buy a premium vehicle with the ability to finance for 84 months these days. When I was younger 36 mo was normal, 48 was okay, and 60 was unusual, but not impossible to find.

My 16 TEP is the most expensive vehicle I've ever bought (by at least double over my previous most expensive). I wouldn't be able to get myself to spend much more. I'm not saying the T4R is the best vehicle on the planet, but I can't see how a "premium" brand SUV could possibly be $40k-$45k better.

 

[Cymon]

Unfortunately, many people "have the means" to buy a premium vehicle with the ability to finance for 84 months these days. When I was younger 36 mo was normal, 48 was okay, and 60 was unusual, but not impossible to find.

My 16 TEP is the most expensive vehicle I've ever bought (by at least double over my previous most expensive). I wouldn't be able to get myself to spend much more. I'm not saying the T4R is the best vehicle on the planet, but I can't see how a "premium" brand SUV could possibly be $40k-$45k better.

That was my thinking, my option was to finance something or use the $40k I saved and buy a 4Runner cash and not have a car payment for 15 years. Couldn't be happier with my decision.

 

[CO-Cygnus]

I used to buy all my cars on 72 month terms. I won't go over 60 months now that I'm older, wiser, and a bit better off than when I was fresh out of school. I can't imagine how kids fresh out of school can do it these days. Salaries are going down and car prices are going way up. A freaking Subaru outback is starting to push $40K if you option it up.

 

[jbrockiii]

I've always considered myself a Land Rover guy. I've owned about 4 or 5. You don't even want to know about the reliability of the early Discovery I owned. I really enjoyed my last LR3, took it off road, towed with it, etc. I guess I was lucky as I only had one major issue as it got to close to 100K miles. Bottom line is- you don't want to own one if it's out of warranty. I'm more about practicality now days and am very happy to have a 2016 T4R Limited. I really can't imagine it being much more luxurious than it is. I thought long and hard about purchasing another Rover but am glad I got the T4R instead- great piece of mind.

 

[Cymon]

I used to buy all my cars on 72 month terms. I won't go over 60 months now that I'm older, wiser, and a bit better off than when I was fresh out of school. I can't imagine how kids fresh out of school can do it these days. Salaries are going down and car prices are going way up. A freaking Subaru outback is starting to push $40K if you option it up.

As a teacher young teacher that's why I had to suck it up with an 87 ford escort until I could buy a new outback. Then save again for this truck. As a mid-thirties father of two my salary goes in priority to these...house, retirement, savings/kids college, then fun. It also helped I married a bit of a sugar mama...lol.

It is difficult, but in the end its about prioritizing wants vs. needs.

I'm now off the soapbox....

 

[JEL]

Land Rovers are complete junk, end or story.


And as much as I love my 4runners, it can't be compared to a G-Class as already pointed out. The G-Class is far superior to the 4runner in every way, but it is also WAYYY more expensive. They are way more rugged and durable as well, and if you know Mercedes well, you'll know they don't share the past reliability issues with the ML, as they're hand-built in a special factory in Austria. The frame on a G-Class is seriously industrial grade, larger than a 1-ton diesel truck probably, and it could handle a beating that would turn my poor 4runner into a pile of bolts on the side of the road.

I think it's tough to compare the two, but one thing is for certain, I'd love to have both.:dancin: