Considering a Trail Edition 4 Runner....

[FloridaFeMan]

Currently drive a '10 FJ Cruiser 4x4. It's my daily driver and I use it for it's utility purposes but not for it's off-road prowess. I have zero issues with the vehicle. Only reason I'd get rid of it is for 4 real doors and some interior refinement and less road noise. Long story short, my wife had a 2011 SR5 2WD 4Runner which we traded in on a Honda Odyssey (no bashing please). I liked the ride and handling of the SR5. How big of a difference can I expect from both the FJ and the SR5 if I go to a Trail Edition 4Runner? Also, does anyone know if the sound quality of the base stereo improved from 2011 and previous 5th gen years to the current 2012 base stereo? I see that the head unit has changed so I'd be interested to know if sound quality was improved upon also. I am not an audiophile but I do enjoy the FJammer stereo in my FJ. Also, what "Real World" fuel economy should I expect from the TE? Any other opinions on the move from the FJ to the Trail Edition would be appreciated as well.

 

[philsey]

Welcome to the Forum. Your questions have been discussed a lot.

Google is your best search tool. Use this url:

site:5th gen T4Rs - Toyota 4Runner Forum xxx xxx

where xxx xxx is your search criteria.

site:5th gen T4Rs - Toyota 4Runner Forum fj got lots of hits.

 

[FloridaFeMan]

Welcome to the Forum. Your questions have been discussed a lot.

Google is your best search tool. Use this url:

site:5th gen T4Rs - Toyota 4Runner Forum xxx xxx

where xxx xxx is your search criteria.

site:5th gen T4Rs - Toyota 4Runner Forum fj got lots of hits.

Thanks. Tried searching but alot of posts to sort through, some informative and some garbage. Unfortunately do not have the luxury of time in my busy schedule so I thought I'd try my own post out. Some of the FJ vs TE posts helped. I really couldn't find any info or opinions on how the '12 stock stereo sounds vs the '11 and under stock stereos. Big decision to make but seems like this forum has most of the answers.

 

[homeyclaus]

The TE will have tighter handling than your wife's SR5 if it's equipped with KDSS.

The tires that came with your wife's truck are the same as will be on your TE, either Bridgestones or Dunlops, and by all accounts both of them suck. I managed to put up with mine for 60 miles. Figure better tires into the equation when you buy, and you'll be much happier with the vehicle.

The upgraded JBL audio that came with my '11 was about equivalent to the updgraded FJ audio. Both are JBL units (although probably Clarion). The '12 upgraded audio loses some speakers (probably just the counting of them got more honest), gives you Entune, and probably sounds fine. Some members have upgraded their front dash speakers to Infiniti series speakers and reported a marked increase in audio quality, so the electronics you're getting are probably alright.

As far as road noise goes, it's mainly a function of the tires. Put mud tires on there, and it'll be noisy. A better SUV tire than what it ships with will probably be as quiet. My '11 TE is pretty quiet, and if you've driven the SR5 it'll be the same with the same tires. Again, some people have gone to town with insulation, so there is likely room for improvement if it bothers you.

My only comment is that if you're upgrading for space and utility, and not off-road ability, why not just get a SR5? You won't really need the locking rear diff, or the extra skid plates, and you can get the same improvement in ride as KDSS gives you (or close to it) by spending $400 on Bilstein shocks.

 

[FloridaFeMan]

"My only comment is that if you're upgrading for space and utility, and not off-road ability, why not just get a SR5? You won't really need the locking rear diff, or the extra skid plates, and you can get the same improvement in ride as KDSS gives you (or close to it) by spending $400 on Bilstein shocks."

I am considering this very same point. I do like the aesthetics of the Trail Edition more than the SR5, the TE just looks a little more "manly" with the black handles, roof rack, molding around wheel wells, and bumpers.

 

[fishman]

i was debating between a TT fj and the TE 4runner... purchased a 2012 TE 4runner this past tuesday and am so stoked on it! i briefly considered getting the SR5 but had to go with what i really wanted... you should too!:biggrin2:

 

[jca21]

if you're going to keep it relatively stock i saw go for the TE.

if you plan to mod the crap outta it go for the sr5 with upgrade package.

 

[FJCRUZR]

I traded my 07 FJC for a TE and very happy on all level...
I used to wheel a lot but not anymore and wanted something to go on expedition type run with more room and comfort, especially for my daughter now 8(but still going on 15). She now has her own door and reclining seat in the back.
I personally feel the Trail Edition looks better without all the chrome and kicka$$ wheels like the newer FJC's
The sound is much better in the TE.
That's my $0.02

 

[JohnnyT]

"My only comment is that if you're upgrading for space and utility, and not off-road ability, why not just get a SR5? You won't really need the locking rear diff, or the extra skid plates, and you can get the same improvement in ride as KDSS gives you (or close to it) by spending $400 on Bilstein shocks."

I am considering this very same point. I do like the aesthetics of the Trail Edition more than the SR5, the TE just looks a little more "manly" with the black handles, roof rack, molding around wheel wells, and bumpers.

I love the 5gen Trail (and only the Trail) but i'd suggest trying out a 4gen v8 before purchasing a 5gen Trail. Then make the call.