Gen 5 AC in the Desert

[cf_coder]

5th Gen 2014 SR5 here... No sunroof and super white paint job. The AC works great. Like others have said, get a good tint job and when you get in to the car, make sure to roll down the windows to blow out the oven air that's just sitting in there. If you leave your vent on re-circ and then try to cool off 140+ degree air, it's going to take a bit. After you blow it out, it should cool down pretty quickly.

_coder

 

[ccastonguay]

Being in Arizona as well, So far on the hot days, I havent noticed a huge delay in cooling off. I just make sure the back vent is closed so all the airflow hits the front. But, I am also looking at tinting here soon and we havent had to hot of fa day yet.

 

[LXRunner]

I used 2013 T4R Trail and 1999 LX470
to tow same trailer at summer for long period of time.
Conditions:
RV Trailer is about 4500 lbs, when loaded.
Flat trip distance over 400 miles.
Temperature around 90 – 100 F.

T4R vs. LX470 average observation:

T4R improved transmission vs. LX470 V8 torque
gives equally confident feeling for both, when towing.

MPG: 12(T4R) vs. 10(LX470)

A/C: when started, T4R takes about 10 min more over LX470
to get comfortable cabin temperature.
LX470 has better sun heat reflecting windows.
I think T4R need additional window tint for comfortable summer ride.

Both are equally good for towing. No problem whatsoever.

 

[DesertCanyons]

AC Power

If you have a Landcruiser consider getting a slightly user Lexus GX460. Similar size to 4Runner but quality is increased.

CH, you're in Orange County, CA. Do you ever need AC in OC? :surfer:

The power to cool a car down also depends on humidity. In Phoenix it's a lot dryer than Texas or Louisiana so your AC will work better than anywhere in the southeastern US.

I have windshield shades for my cars. It makes a big difference in keeping the car cool while it's parked.

Don't sweat the small stuff. The T4R is a great car for those off-road adventures around Arizona.

 

[hamburglar210]

I noticed a big improvement with how cool it gets and stays once I added my tint. I paid pretty good money for the Huper Optik stuff but I haven't felt like it was a waste yet.

 

[buenhec]

I live in the Imperial Valley, next to Yuma. My 2010 has been fine, the A/C has been adequate, no problems. My 2006 Tundra blows colder air though. I did add an auxiliary fan, sometime sitting in traffic waiting to cross the border when its 115' degrees outside, the air may not blow so cold, but I don't know which car would. Would definately recommend.