You can wire any bluetooth car kit into the existing speaker system. It is very much worth it to me. I loved my HCB-30 kit in my 04 4runner, however, I hated the small speaker that palyed audio back for me. I bought the Parrot kit after using the UConnect system in the wife's jeep. It is really nice for the car stereo to mute, let you know there is an incoming call, who the call is from and relay the audio through the stereo system. When you hang up, the radio resumes what was playing. The Parrot kit is alot like the BMW kits and the Daimler Chrysler UConnect system, but compatible with any vehicle in the world. I will update everyone after I get it installed.
As for the Jeep, what a nice vehicle. I originally looked at the Jeep for myself and was going to give the wife the 4runner to my wife (she kept wanting it). When I drove the Jeep over to her office to show it to her, she quickly fell in love with it. The Jeep is a Laredo Trail Rated model, and is identical to the Limited except no chrome grill and chrome door inserts. It has the 4.7 Liter V8 (235 HP I believe). I was going to get the Hemi, but I could not justify $2000 for the engine when I would be sacrificing the fuel efficiency, that combined with the fact that my wife would be driving it. It has the Sirius satellite radio (really nice because it is built into the factory headunit and they give a 1 year subscription for free), MP3 capability, 6-Disc autochanger and 270 watt Boston Acoustics soundsystem. All the usual refineries including leather, traction, the new headlight system, 17 wheels, sport shifter, carbon fiber trim, and fold flat rear seats (really nice because the seats lay flat without having to lift up the bottom cushions like in the 4runner).
The nicest feature (electronic wise), aside from the satellite radio, is the UConnect system (bluetooth). The whole communication and entertainment system can be controlled (including dialling phone numbers) from the steering wheel. You can really, really tell the influence of Daimler on Jeep. The handling is much improved from the 04 Jeep GC (my parents have one). Much more sports sedan/car like. I recently drove to Louisville for a residency interview, and I was driving 80-85 on I64 and heard almost no wind noise and it handled like a car. Really nice.
Overall, the Jeep isn't terribly nicer than the 4runner. It just has different features, and a different setup. I love the ride in my 4runner, love the ride height, the power, and the overall build quality. The Jeep is just a little more luxurious than the 4runner. If we have to go to a nice dinner at a place where we may valet the car, then we would take the Jeep. Otherwise, I will stick with my 4runner. I will post really detailed pics of the 3 vehicles. My 05 4Runner, my 05 Jeep, and my parents 04 Jeep so you can see the comparison.
Also, the 4runner has much more room in my opinion. Another reason I still love my 4runner. I love leather, but I can't stand Toyota leather.....Seems to wear very, very easily.
Sorry for the long post......
JR
: I agree that the 35hp makes a big difference. That engine makes the truck really moves and sounds stronger too.
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