Gen 5 or 6 thoughts on this

[arouth]

So I sat in a a 6th Gen 4Runner Platinum at the Chicago Auto Show this weekend and have a few thoughts but my overall feeling on the 6th gen feels mixed. I also sat in a few Tacomas which have the same interior.

1. The blue seats in the Platinum for me personally would be hard to live with after a while. I didn't like the color and really just wish they would put black seats in the Platinum.

2. As other reviewers have pointed out there is a lack of soft touch material on the Premium models. My 2015 Trail Premium has soft touch materials on the door panel and upper door trim, so it's a cost cutting measure by Toyota. However, the Premium Package is like an $8000 ad on so that really doesn't make sense.

So mixed feelings about the 6th gen 4Runner when it was announced and mixed feelings after seeing it in person. Overall the 4Runner seems like a nice update but I don't see a rush to go out and buy one if your 5th gen is running strong.

 

[02SE]

So apparently the '25 TRD ORP has a flimsy plastic skidplate. Just how cheap are they building these things?

I had high hopes for the new 4Runner. The more I see from those who have taken delivery, the more disappointed I become. :wtf:

 

[thatoneguy]

So apparently the '25 TRD ORP has a flimsy plastic skidplate. Just how cheap are they building these things?

I had high hopes for the new 4Runner. The more I see from those who have taken delivery, the more disappointed I become. :wtf:

Oh no! That's really a step down from the *checks* flimsy tin can skidplate on my '23 TRD ORP.

There was some cost cutting. It's a known thing. Like the SR5's going to a space-saver spare. And going to a tumble forward second row on ALL models.

It's expensive times for new proper 4x4's. If you want SERIOUS factory offroad protection, you have to spend beaucoup bucks, period.

 

[02SE]

Oh no! That's really a step down from the *checks* flimsy tin can skidplate on my '23 TRD ORP.

There was some cost cutting. It's a known thing. Like the SR5's going to a space-saver spare. And going to a tumble forward second row on ALL models.

It's expensive times for new proper 4x4's. If you want SERIOUS factory offroad protection, you have to spend beaucoup bucks, period.

I get it, you're fine with the cheapening of the vehicle. Toyota is banking on that level of acceptance to their cheaply made vehicle. Yes, the 5th gen has areas were they went cheap too. The concern is that the de-contenting and cheapening continues.

I know you're a young guy. But I remember a time when Toyota actually did build a better product, as I was a Master Tech working on them at a Toyota dealer. Then later working on all brands at an independent shop, and seeing how other brands were built. It was what made me a Toyota fan.

 

[skilledoat]

I do like the latest generations of 4runner, but the price sticker shock is real. Not sure I'd go for one over a LC but i have yet to actually sit in either. I think either way I would wait several years til some of the new model quirks end up ironed out

 

[DAW89446]

So apparently the '25 TRD ORP has a flimsy plastic skidplate.

Access Denied

(The link above is for an online Motor Trend article, quoted in part below)

"... the TRD Off-Road Premium has a massive chin spoiler. We happened to post a picture to Instagram during the comparison, and a Toyota designer commented on the post: “I helped design the aero on this, including the grille and lower air dam. Seriously, take the thing off if you’re going off-road (it’s removable). It does add a fair amount in mpg on the highway, but it’s just so big and cumbersome.”

That said, while the spoiler looked like it would have slowed the 4Runner down, careful maneuvering (and some expert spotting) meant it never actually did. Plus, it’s made from a very soft plastic, so if it does get caught on a rock or whatever, the spoiler just bends.

 

[02SE]

Access Denied

(The link above is for an online Motor Trend article, quoted in part below)

"... the TRD Off-Road Premium has a massive chin spoiler. We happened to post a picture to Instagram during the comparison, and a Toyota designer commented on the post: “I helped design the aero on this, including the grille and lower air dam. Seriously, take the thing off if you’re going off-road (it’s removable). It does add a fair amount in mpg on the highway, but it’s just so big and cumbersome.”

That said, while the spoiler looked like it would have slowed the 4Runner down, careful maneuvering (and some expert spotting) meant it never actually did. Plus, it’s made from a very soft plastic, so if it does get caught on a rock or whatever, the spoiler just bends.

The chin spoiler they are talking about, is NOT the plastic skidplate I'm referring to.

Are you familiar with the metal skidplate on your 5th gen SR5? That has been replaced by a flimsy piece of plastic on the 6th gen TRD ORP.

 

[SOSHeloPilot]

I just purchased a new Gen 5 TRD Off Road for the reasons on this video and videos from The Car Care Nut. Not saying what they say is there reason is the better choice, but don't think you can go wrong with 5 Gen $ Runner.
10 REASONS TO BUY THE 5th GEN 2024 TOYOTA 4RUNNER BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE // LET'S COMPARE TO 6th GEN - YouTube

.
...^^^... Excellent video on Gen 5

 

[trainman605]

I purchased my 2024 4 Runner TRD Off Road in January of 2024. It is now 15 months old and has 5,600 miles on it. Truely, I didn't need the TRD Off Road model as I will probably never drive it off road, but just thought the resale value would be better on this model that say the other models with the exception of the TRD PRO. I pretty much knew that the new 2025 model would not have the features that I liked about the 2024 4 Runner, mainly the engine was probably my biggest dislike, now I see plastic skid plates on the 2025 model. These are just a few things that will keep the value up on the GEN 5 models, somewhat like the FJ Cruisers.

 

[Bulldozer2020]

5th or 6th???

Long time Jeep guy (currently 23' Willys) possibly looking to get into the 4runner life. The debate is between a slightly used late model CPO 5th Gen or newer certified pre-owned 6th Gen to keep long term (blue collar worker on a budget). Definitely want the TRD Off Road to only slightly modify for a daily driver commute and family but also a light overlanding rig to enjoy. Live in the Northeast so need all weather capabilities.

I see some of the aspects of each 5th and 6th from your community as well as reputable enthusiasts. I just can't decide.

The 5th I like for the rugged long term dependability with the V6 but hear it's a dog. Could a Pedal Commander or Monster help the V6 with some throttle or pep? My Jeep has the 2.0 turbo and that torque is fantastic so I believe the 6th has that advantage along with slightly better MPG . However, all these new tech engines are more difficult and expensive to work on so there's that. We have at my job new vehicles in the fleet, albeit not Toyotas, with new tech and engines that constantly are going to the dealer to fix. Multiple engine fixes before 50k miles. Have to mention too, my Jeep 2.0 had to get half the engine rebuilt at 17k miles (timing chain tensioner).

Speaking of tech, while its cool and all, I don't really need it. My Jeep has a small 6in screen with Bluetooth, AM/FM, Car play/android auto and that's basically it which I'm fine with. Analog speed gauges too as opposed to electronic. 5th Gen wins again here. However, outdated systems can be bothersome down the road so 6th wins for updated. Then again, my wife's 21' Durango infotainment system needed an update from the dealer and was a shit show. Still don't work right.

Mods? Only larger ones probably just the rooftop tent and a winch for the overlanding aspect. I'm perfectly fine with rugged 33's AT. Still OR capable and better MPG.

Very interested to hear from the Gen 5 converters to the 6th on any insight. Greatly appreciated to all.

(I have put this post in multiple forums and categories to get more input. Apologies)

 

[arouth]

Long time Jeep guy (currently 23' Willys) possibly looking to get into the 4runner life. The debate is between a slightly used late model CPO 5th Gen or newer certified pre-owned 6th Gen to keep long term (blue collar worker on a budget). Definitely want the TRD Off Road to only slightly modify for a daily driver commute and family but also a light overlanding rig to enjoy. Live in the Northeast so need all weather capabilities.

I see some of the aspects of each 5th and 6th from your community as well as reputable enthusiasts. I just can't decide.

The 5th I like for the rugged long term dependability with the V6 but hear it's a dog. Could a Pedal Commander or Monster help the V6 with some throttle or pep? My Jeep has the 2.0 turbo and that torque is fantastic so I believe the 6th has that advantage along with slightly better MPG . However, all these new tech engines are more difficult and expensive to work on so there's that. We have at my job new vehicles in the fleet, albeit not Toyotas, with new tech and engines that constantly are going to the dealer to fix. Multiple engine fixes before 50k miles. Have to mention too, my Jeep 2.0 had to get half the engine rebuilt at 17k miles (timing chain tensioner).

Speaking of tech, while its cool and all, I don't really need it. My Jeep has a small 6in screen with Bluetooth, AM/FM, Car play/android auto and that's basically it which I'm fine with. Analog speed gauges too as opposed to electronic. 5th Gen wins again here. However, outdated systems can be bothersome down the road so 6th wins for updated. Then again, my wife's 21' Durango infotainment system needed an update from the dealer and was a shit show. Still don't work right.

Mods? Only larger ones probably just the rooftop tent and a winch for the overlanding aspect. I'm perfectly fine with rugged 33's AT. Still OR capable and better MPG.

Very interested to hear from the Gen 5 converters to the 6th on any insight. Greatly appreciated to all.

(I have put this post in multiple forums and categories to get more input. Apologies)

I'd recommend a late model CPO 5th gen.

The 6th gen 4Runner has a lot of hard plastics, smaller backseats, back seats that tumble forward rather than fall flat, etc... basically needs a solid mid life update to make it better.

I put the OTT tune on my 15 4Runner, a cold air intake, and an aftermarket exhaust with a resonator too kill the drone sound and it wakes the engine up. You do not need a pedal commander or similar device with the OTT tune.

Mine has KDSS which helps with handling as well. You lose some off road capabilities though.

For the tech Trail Grid Pro has a lot of good stuff. I used them to update speakers and install a Sony stereo with CarPlay.

I hope this helps.

 

[osugsxr]

Long time Jeep guy (currently 23' Willys) possibly looking to get into the 4runner life. The debate is between a slightly used late model CPO 5th Gen or newer certified pre-owned 6th Gen to keep long term (blue collar worker on a budget). Definitely want the TRD Off Road to only slightly modify for a daily driver commute and family but also a light overlanding rig to enjoy. Live in the Northeast so need all weather capabilities.

I see some of the aspects of each 5th and 6th from your community as well as reputable enthusiasts. I just can't decide.

The 5th I like for the rugged long term dependability with the V6 but hear it's a dog. Could a Pedal Commander or Monster help the V6 with some throttle or pep? My Jeep has the 2.0 turbo and that torque is fantastic so I believe the 6th has that advantage along with slightly better MPG . However, all these new tech engines are more difficult and expensive to work on so there's that. We have at my job new vehicles in the fleet, albeit not Toyotas, with new tech and engines that constantly are going to the dealer to fix. Multiple engine fixes before 50k miles. Have to mention too, my Jeep 2.0 had to get half the engine rebuilt at 17k miles (timing chain tensioner).

Speaking of tech, while its cool and all, I don't really need it. My Jeep has a small 6in screen with Bluetooth, AM/FM, Car play/android auto and that's basically it which I'm fine with. Analog speed gauges too as opposed to electronic. 5th Gen wins again here. However, outdated systems can be bothersome down the road so 6th wins for updated. Then again, my wife's 21' Durango infotainment system needed an update from the dealer and was a shit show. Still don't work right.

Mods? Only larger ones probably just the rooftop tent and a winch for the overlanding aspect. I'm perfectly fine with rugged 33's AT. Still OR capable and better MPG.

Very interested to hear from the Gen 5 converters to the 6th on any insight. Greatly appreciated to all.

(I have put this post in multiple forums and categories to get more input. Apologies)

Usual next generation of an auto with 6th gen 4runner, standard quirks to work out in first few years. People will complain etc, I like the looks and tech of the 6th gen model. Engines not too familiar with but I would have prefered a v6 like the gx550. Yes 4cyl turbo / hybird you can tune the power curve to it.

5th gen model is RELIABLE , its a dog as you stated but you get use to it. You wont be drag racing it, enjoy the simplicity and reliability of the model. Pending which year you buy 2020 up has the car play head unit and it should ve been standard in the earlier models. I retrofitted one and it was a nice upgrade (larger screen and car play) I use car play 95% of the time. Kinda nice to see 5th gen models for sale with 300k miles plus. 5th gen works great and will last!

 

[Nick Nostril]

Don't post much, but my $0.02...

We bought our 2021 ORP in Mar 2021 and got the last one off the lot of one of the largest Toyota dealers in the midwest. Sticker was over $45k, without prodding they gave us a price of $40k even (+tax, title, etc). This was before Covid dried up the supply completely.

I go online just now and see that the base price for the equivalent 26 is pushing $60k five years later, with a turbo4, and a top of the line Pro is essentially $70k.

YMMV, but I'll take my cheap old tech 5th gen any day even with gas prices headed up.