most comfortable 4Runner trim (suspension on road)?

[PNTRDPROO]

I know Ive already made a thread asking which 4Runner trim handles best on road...

Now I want to know which of the 5th Gen 4Runners is the most comfortable on the road? SR5, Trail Premium with KDSS, or TRD Pro

I have read contradicting things on the 4runner. I have read in some reviews that said the 4Runner is "busy" and "not very smooth"... Then there are some that say it is smooth and comfortable...

Which trim out of the 3 provides the smoothest on road ride and irons out the bumps and potholes the best? Which one comes in second (assuming the TRDP comes in 1st)?

 

[8086bruce]

I have an sr5 so can't speak to the rest of the trims but I think they are all similar. Mine has a very soft smooth ride. In fact it's to smooth for me so the stock shocks have to go!

 

[RESQLAB]

...this is really something you should make the call on by simply driving everything you can get your hands on & make that salesman earn his commission! you are only going to get opinions posting a thread topic like this (yet again) and some of those opinions are not very educated.

i will tell you this, i would of bought the Trail w/KDDS had it not been sold a couple of days after my test drive. after two weeks of looking for another like vehicle, i gave up and bought an SR5. i didnt even test drive the SR5 before i bought it. however, after a few days of owning it, i knew the suspension was going to have to go.. and fast!

if you are really concerned about having the kind of ride you want & prefer... save your money and pass on the Pro you seem to have your heart set on. then, go buy a FULLY ADJUSTABLE Fox or Icon suspension system. you can then adjust any spring pre-load level (not just a few set levels), high speed compression, low speed compression, etc! want a cadillac ride, easy to do. want it to corner like a BMW X5, easy to do.. the customization is endless.

trust me, it may take a week or two to "fine tune" the suspension, learn the various adjustments and pay for a few alignments, but once you find the sweet spot for your butt behind the wheel... you will never pine for any of the Toyota OEM suspension setups again. and no, i dont regret not getting the Trail version at all now.

good luck in whatever you do. i admire your quest for complete research before you pull the trigger. ive bought a few vehicles in my day and look back wondering, "what was i f-ing thinking??!!".

 

[Danimal]

Car and Driver says the Trail was more comfortably on rough pavement. My KDSS equipped 4Runner is extremely stable - love it!

2014 Toyota 4Runner 4WD Test ? Review ? Car and Driver

Dan

 

[PNTRDPROO]

...this is really something you should make the call on by simply driving everything you can get your hands on & make that salesman earn his commission! you are only going to get opinions posting a thread topic like this (yet again) and some of those opinions are not very educated.

i will tell you this, i would of bought the Trail w/KDDS had it not been sold a couple of days after my test drive. after two weeks of looking for another like vehicle, i gave up and bought an SR5. i didnt even test drive the SR5 before i bought it. however, after a few days of owning it, i knew the suspension was going to have to go.. and fast!

if you are really concerned about having the kind of ride you want & prefer... save your money and pass on the Pro you seem to have your heart set on. then, go buy a FULLY ADJUSTABLE Fox or Icon suspension system. you can then adjust any spring pre-load level (not just a few set levels), high speed compression, low speed compression, etc! want a cadillac ride, easy to do. want it to corner like a BMW X5, easy to do.. the customization is endless.

trust me, it may take a week or two to "fine tune" the suspension, learn the various adjustments and pay for a few alignments, but once you find the sweet spot for your butt behind the wheel... you will never pine for any of the Toyota OEM suspension setups again. and no, i dont regret not getting the Trail version at all now.

good luck in whatever you do. i admire your quest for complete research before you pull the trigger. ive bought a few vehicles in my day and look back wondering, "what was i f-ing thinking??!!".

Thank you for your response and for continuing to help and answer my questions.

I stopped by a dealer today and took a look at an SR5 (the only 4Runner they had there).

After finding that all 3 of the trims in question have the same sound systems, speakers, reclining rear seats, power outlet in the cargo area, etc., etc..... It made me realize that the only difference between the SR5 and Trail is that the Trail has CRAWL control, Terrain select, locking rear diff, and KDSS...

I'm honestly not sure I'll be needing all of the off road aids, although I would looooove to have them, and it never hurts to have features you won't use often...

However, if I'm honest, the SR5 may be all I need considering I will spend most of my time on the street and will not be doing very much hardcore off roading. I plan on hitting the beaches during the summer, and finding dirt roads to go down and explore... I suppose you can say I will be using it in an "Expedition" type fashion moreso than a rock crawling one...

The ~$35k (right?) for a SR5 Premium does sound very attractive to me compared to $39k for a TRD Pro or even $37.8k for a Trail Premium w/KDSS.

I am going to test drive the SR5 tomorrow. I will have an idea about how I at least feel about he SR5 suspension then...

I just looked at the price of the ICON suspension kit. Holy crap!! $1774 for the cheapest one! I'm not sure that will be a route I'd be willing to go, considering I'd be evaluating the SR5 as a purchase option to save money to begin with.... Hmmm, something to think about

 

[3wbdriver]

But ya gots to have that badass hood scoop!!!! And it's only available on the Trail!!! Lol

 

[Jabberjaw]

Do what's gonna make you happy, but IMO you'll be just fine with the SR5. I'm going to make my SR5 into a expedition vehicle.

 

[Bad_Influence]

the LE's handle really nice around corners, that's what nice lower profile tires will give you along with the xreas shocks, but the lower profile tires on the stock LE's will also make the little bumps in the road a little more noticeable. TE's with KDSS are nice on pavement too, a little different, but I think the higher profile tires with a stiff sidewall would give the TE w/kdss the slight edge for on road handling. The sr5 is noticeably worse (but still descent) on pavement, i noticed more body roll with the sr5 when i test drove one right after test driving a limited at the dealership.

 

[cjacob316]

I don't know why, but I have just always preferred seeing a mechanical transfer case lever in an SUV over a push button or a dial. That was a big selling point for me on the trail. I doesn't hurt that it has a better stock ride since I didn't have plans to change the suspension right away.

We have bumpy roads and I feel the bumps.

 

[oljedi11950]

Figured I'd throw my 2cts n the pile , having both 4th gen & 5th & both sr5 . I knew right away the 4th needed upgrade , just went with 51s front & rear perfect for my needs 60/40 dd & off-road . Not crazy stuff but poorly maintained co. roads & old mining roads . Really handles nice in corners & even n my advanced age I like a little speed . Now when I got the 11 wasn't sure until I spun it around & def knew it needed suspension BAD , much heavier & top heavy for sure so again 51s all around done deal . Now it sounds like all you need is slight upgrade multiple options , all good mentioned above but you can get out the door for under a G & have a badass rig IMO ! Because we don't want to see your next post wow mpg loss whut happened ? And as I learned do it right & once ! But if you can drive them all . Feel the force !

 

[RESQLAB]

maybe take a look at the Fox 2.0 system.. not as big $$$ investment but a great improvement over OEM (i really enjoyed it before i went to the 2.5 system) i found the 2.0 a bit more "street-able" than my current 2.5 Fox system.

 

[PNTRDPROO]

I will have to look into that^.
I am thinking however, that if I do get an SR5, Ill probably go with the TRD Pro suspension

 

[FrontRange4Runner]

I will have to look into that^.
I am thinking however, that if I do get an SR5, Ill probably go with the TRD Pro suspension

If you are looking at purely on road, then the SR5 and Limited are where you need to be looking. KDSS and TRD Pro are set up with an off road bias. You will notice this. My Trail with E rated tires inflated properly is very stiff. It drives through the canyons (very tight, twisty and narrow) with a stiff and confident feel. On the other hand, things like potholes and man hole covers jar the vehicle significantly. There is no prefect setup. You will never get the best on road feel combined with the best off road ability. Vehicles with air suspensions attempt to do both with multiple settings. In reality, it's all just a compromise. You have to realize that a good off road suspension will never feel like a S Class on road, and a S Class suspension will never be good off road. I can tell you from 1000's of hours behind the wheel of many different $100k+ Suv's that the 4Runner will never be as smooth on road as even the least expensive luxury oriented SUV will be - none of which have frames. It wont even be close. My old Accord rode much better. The 4Runner is exactly what it claims to be. A BOF SUV that will take more shit than most are willing to throw at it. It's good at being that. Only that. Truth be told, every time shit hits the fan, I'm much happier putting up with a bumpy ride than a vehicle that might not take me home. I guess what I'm trying to say is that every version of the Runner rides like crap compared to other similarly sized vehicles. Any suspension mods will only make it go in one direction or the other. So just buy the one you like and get on with it.

 

[Jabberjaw]

^^^^Well said. I love occasional offloading, camping, fishing, etc. ...but I went with the SR5 over the Trail cause I have a 50+ mile daily commute and drive from the DC area to N Carolina at least once a month. I can build the SR5 a little and get exactly what I want.

 

[Jetboy]

The KDSS equipped Trail was enough better than the sr5 that I bought it for that primarily. IMO it's the best of the best. It's in the GX460 and the Land Cruiser for a good reason.

You can get a great ride and handling from upgraded suspension, but unless you're going to go crazy with custom $ suspension work, you can't replicate KDSS. I have seen only one 4runner that I know that has a system that's as good or better. It's a 3rd gen with both narrowed dana 60 axles. It then uses a 3rd dana 60 differential mounted to the side of the transfer case sideways, so where the axle shafts were, now are driveshaft flanges. They are then connected to torsion rods with slip joints and u-joints down to each axle. The open differential works to reverse rotational torque on each shaft so it results in forced articulation and amazingly stable handling by reducing body roll. It's like KDSS only better offroad. I've never seen a 4runner with more flex - I think it's probably 1500 rti, and very stable.

Unless you're into a major custom setup, I think KDSS is the best that currently exists for having controlled on road antiroll and flex offroad - in a big heavy SUV. So - that also begs the question of course ; do I really need a big heavy SUV? For me the answer really is sometimes.

For highway use Toyota built the the highlander/RX350. I also have an RX350. Same mileage. Similar interior size and layout. But quieter and more refined on the highway. If you're doing 99% highway time, I'd get the crossover. A late model CPO RX350 is a lot cheaper than a 4runner too.

 

[Mooney]

I will have to look into that^.
I am thinking however, that if I do get an SR5, Ill probably go with the TRD Pro suspension

Why?

You're willing to spend thousands more on a TRDP, but think a good suspension system on the SR5 is too costly?

I purchased the ICON system so I could adjust the ride height to any level, then twist a dial to select the dampening of my ride. Radflo, King, Fox, Bilstien and many others provide equipment superior to any stock options, including the dual position system on the TRDP.

Based on the needs you highlighted it sounds like the SR5 fills your needs. If and when those needs change there are a number of vendors providing some great upgrade options.

 

[PNTRDPROO]

Why?

You're willing to spend thousands more on a TRDP, but think a good suspension system on the SR5 is too costly?

I purchased the ICON system so I could adjust the ride height to any level, then twist a dial to select the dampening of my ride. Radflo, King, Fox, Bilstien and many others provide equipment superior to any stock options, including the dual position system on the TRDP.

Based on the needs you highlighted it sounds like the SR5 fills your needs. If and when those needs change there are a number of vendors providing some great upgrade options.

Because I was just reading a thread that suggested that the higher end shocks like FOX and ICON need to be rebuilt every so often and that they need to be kept away from salt.

I live in NY, the road salt capital of the US and if this truck will be my DD, how long before I have to replace/rebuild a shock.....

 

[PNTRDPROO]

If you are looking at purely on road, then the SR5 and Limited are where you need to be looking. KDSS and TRD Pro are set up with an off road bias. You will notice this. My Trail with E rated tires inflated properly is very stiff. It drives through the canyons (very tight, twisty and narrow) with a stiff and confident feel. On the other hand, things like potholes and man hole covers jar the vehicle significantly. There is no prefect setup. You will never get the best on road feel combined with the best off road ability. Vehicles with air suspensions attempt to do both with multiple settings. In reality, it's all just a compromise. You have to realize that a good off road suspension will never feel like a S Class on road, and a S Class suspension will never be good off road. I can tell you from 1000's of hours behind the wheel of many different $100k+ Suv's that the 4Runner will never be as smooth on road as even the least expensive luxury oriented SUV will be - none of which have frames. It wont even be close. My old Accord rode much better. The 4Runner is exactly what it claims to be. A BOF SUV that will take more shit than most are willing to throw at it. It's good at being that. Only that. Truth be told, every time shit hits the fan, I'm much happier putting up with a bumpy ride than a vehicle that might not take me home. I guess what I'm trying to say is that every version of the Runner rides like crap compared to other similarly sized vehicles. Any suspension mods will only make it go in one direction or the other. So just buy the one you like and get on with it.

^^^^Well said. I love occasional offloading, camping, fishing, etc. ...but I went with the SR5 over the Trail cause I have a 50+ mile daily commute and drive from the DC area to N Carolina at least once a month. I can build the SR5 a little and get exactly what I want.

The KDSS equipped Trail was enough better than the sr5 that I bought it for that primarily. IMO it's the best of the best. It's in the GX460 and the Land Cruiser for a good reason.

You can get a great ride and handling from upgraded suspension, but unless you're going to go crazy with custom $ suspension work, you can't replicate KDSS. I have seen only one 4runner that I know that has a system that's as good or better. It's a 3rd gen with both narrowed dana 60 axles. It then uses a 3rd dana 60 differential mounted to the side of the transfer case sideways, so where the axle shafts were, now are driveshaft flanges. They are then connected to torsion rods with slip joints and u-joints down to each axle. The open differential works to reverse rotational torque on each shaft so it results in forced articulation and amazingly stable handling by reducing body roll. It's like KDSS only better offroad. I've never seen a 4runner with more flex - I think it's probably 1500 rti, and very stable.

Unless you're into a major custom setup, I think KDSS is the best that currently exists for having controlled on road antiroll and flex offroad - in a big heavy SUV. So - that also begs the question of course ; do I really need a big heavy SUV? For me the answer really is sometimes.

For highway use Toyota built the the highlander/RX350. I also have an RX350. Same mileage. Similar interior size and layout. But quieter and more refined on the highway. If you're doing 99% highway time, I'd get the crossover. A late model CPO RX350 is a lot cheaper than a 4runner too.

Thanks for the responses. Im going to see about that SR5 test drive today

 

[RESQLAB]

Because I was just reading a thread that suggested that the higher end shocks like FOX and ICON need to be rebuilt every so often and that they need to be kept away from salt.

I live in NY, the road salt capital of the US and if this truck will be my DD, how long before I have to replace/rebuild a shock.....

ICON has an IVD coating available for this reason..... and now its available at no extra charge.

I hate to say this, but you sound like you are doing a good job of talking yourself out of "any" 4runner and available options? Maybe this isnt a good time for you to move forward on a purchase? I'm only wondering from an outsiders point of view and many years of selling Real Estate that there were times I asked a client who appeared in constant conflict, "Are you sure this is the right time for you to buy?".

Not trying to be a dick or pop your ballon, just playing devils advocate. I'm sure you will of course make the right decision for yourself in the end!

Good luck & be sure to show us lots of pictures!!!!

 

[PNTRDPROO]

ICON has an IVD coating available for this reason..... and now its available at no extra charge.

I hate to say this, but you sound like you are doing a good job of talking yourself out of "any" 4runner and available options? Maybe this isnt a good time for you to move forward on a purchase? I'm only wondering from an outsiders point of view and many years of selling Real Estate that there were times I asked a client who appeared in constant conflict, "Are you sure this is the right time for you to buy?".

Not trying to be a dick or pop your ballon, just playing devils advocate. I'm sure you will of course make the right decision for yourself in the end!

Good luck & be sure to show us lots of pictures!!!!

You arent coming off like a dick... You have a point... I just want to make sure Im not being impulsive (as I have a tendency to do) and buy something and get buyers remorse....

Im going to take it step by step now... Im going to first test drive an SR5 and take it from there.