Ordering New 4Runner; Options questions

[ChloroFiend]

Hey Crew-

Newbie here. I'm about to order a new SR5 Premium 4WD from a dealer as they're apparently impossible to find on the lot. Really excited to ditch my 9 year old Civic...so sick of driving a MT, not having cargo room for my gear, and having to chain up in the winter.

Doing some digging on the Toyota website, it seems the main package options are as follows (aside from the factor/dealer accessories):

[QD] - 30th Anniversary Discount
[PT] - Premium Package
[KH] - Rigid Running Boards
[CD] - Sliding Cargo Desk
[TI] - 3rd Row Seat
[HP] - Hood Protector

These lead to a few questions (some of which might be better answered by the dealer)..

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?
2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?
3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

Thanks all. Sure these won't be my last questions.

 

[The Waco Kid]

1. Do you really need the third row?
2. It's a hit or miss on the running boards, but I think the crowd here is mostly offroad junkies, so you'll get alot of "no they're crap" as they usually run sliders instead. Check out N-Fab's steps for the 4runner. Lots running them here.
3. 6 to 1, half a dozen to the other. It's a mixed opinion on this forum. I've never needed it, but I feel like it'd be nice to have.

How tall are you and your family, and do you need all those seats?

 

[ChloroFiend]

Oh that came across wrong..

I definitely do NOT want the 3rd row. I was just listing out everything I could possibly order, at least based off the configurator online.

I'm no off-road junkie...I might take it on fire roads or trails, but no rock crawling or overland...at least in the foreseeable future.

 

[The Waco Kid]

Oh that came across wrong..

I definitely do NOT want the 3rd row. I was just listing out everything I could possibly order, at least based off the configurator online.

I'm no off-road junkie...I might take it on fire roads or trails, but no rock crawling or overland...at least in the foreseeable future.

Ah ok. For the most part, I don't see anything you listed as needing to get before you leave the dealership. The only real advantage to getting something from the dealer is the inclusion of the accessory in the financed amount.

For the sliding tray, see if you can find ANY 4runner in your area with it. Play with it while you're there and judge for yourself. I wanted maximum cargo space (granted the tray doesn't really take up alot), so I opted out of it.

Take a look at some of the build threads around here, search N-Fabs, shrockworks or similar. See if you'd rather have those steps or step sliders over the plastic ones from the dealer (I think they're plastic).

 

[trevor2005]

The sliding deck is only good if you're moving lots of heavy gear in and out quite often. The third row is practically useless if you're over 3ft tall, so if you can do without it, you can save $1000.
The running boards from the factory have a lot of chrome, yet the SR5 Premium has no chrome, so I'd choose an aftermarket board, like NFab.
The paint protection film should be avoided. It yellows over a few years, and when you remove it, there will be some noticeable difference in the clear coat where it was.

 

[CSix]

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?

Dealers have a Colorado Package that uses 3M tint in the front windows to even out the overall tint. Also, it adds the clear bra on the hood/front and rear view mirrors.

2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?

The stock boards will keep many cars doors parked next to you from making a lasting impression. They also work for the wife and parents getting in and out. I got them because I did not know what ones I want. I will replace at some other time but they will work for a while. See my build thread for pics.

3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

This is not too friendly to large dogs in the back. So, I did not get. I see some uses that are good. Just not real dog friendly.


Good Luck!

 

[nb rob]

Hey Crew-

Newbie here. I'm about to order a new SR5 Premium 4WD from a dealer as they're apparently impossible to find on the lot. Really excited to ditch my 9 year old Civic...so sick of driving a MT, not having cargo room for my gear, and having to chain up in the winter.

Doing some digging on the Toyota website, it seems the main package options are as follows (aside from the factor/dealer accessories):

[QD] - 30th Anniversary Discount
[PT] - Premium Package
[KH] - Rigid Running Boards
[CD] - Sliding Cargo Desk
[TI] - 3rd Row Seat
[HP] - Hood Protector

These lead to a few questions (some of which might be better answered by the dealer)..

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?
2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?
3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

Thanks all. Sure these won't be my last questions.

for what it's worth,
I took my TEP on it's first rip last saturday, and the sound of gravel bouncing off the running boards was unmistakeable. The running boards that came on my truck were black plastic over an aluminium frame. I intended to take them off immediately, but they look damn good. And the sound of the rocks glancing off them only makes me want to keep them on the truck.

 

[4FL]

Mine came with running boards, at first I was going to get rid of them, but my wife likes them and uses them to get in and out, and my MIL uses as well as she has bad knees. Since they look good and are serving an actual function, I am just keeping them.

 

[BobsTrail]

Nfabs look like this and are 14 inches above ground. Not as good as sliders, but I like them better than running boards.

-------------------------------------------------

 

[serial0l0]

Tube steps may be an option on the SR5 Premium as well. I have them on my TRDP. Thought I would be quickly switching them for sliders but i like them enough that sliders moved to 3 or 4 on my list for now. I've seen them on the TE, TEP, and TRDP so far I think. They sit pretty high but like Csix said about the factory running boards, they keep car doors from hitting you in parking lots and probably shed at least a few flying rocks.

 

[BenKen]

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?

Not a dealer option, but consider new tires. The stock ones might seem ok, but even a P-rated AT tire in the same dimensions as stock will make for a noticeable improvement I think.


2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?

They're functional as a step, but lots of people here prefer the look of N-Fabs or rock sliders, or none at all.

Is it too high without some kind of step? For me, no. For my fiancé, yeah kinda. For her parents? Definitely. So consider who you'll be giving rides too for this one.



3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

I wanted one real bad, but after getting a T4R without one I'm glad I don't have it in the long run. It doesn't come out all that far to be super useful, and it would have made it tricky for my dog to be able to jump in the back. If you are ordering, I say skip it. If you find a perfect T4R on a lot and it has it, don't sweat it and just buy the truck. It's not bad, but not worth going out of your way for or special ordering it.

 

[Sig_Fan_55]

Remote start is another option but I have it and I would pass. It runs $500ish and I am not a fan due to the way it works. I was used to aftermarket remote starts that would start remotely and when you dis arm the alarm you put the key in step on the brake and it stays running. The OEM one remote starts fine but it shuts the truck off when disarming. Then you get in and start it again.

I opted for no sliding tray to gain a little more room, you only lose 3-4" so its not bad but I didn't see a use for it. If you have a baby it would make a great changing station. I knock my knees every time I change my little man in the trunk.

For the running boards, I'm 6'1" and I could do without them, My wife is 5'5" and she could get in and out ok but after a week she said go ahead and order the N-Fab Steps, Didn't have to tell me twice! Already had them cart ready for checkout. Now that I have them on the truck I don't use them she does but I love the look and planned on getting them anyway.

 

[kittyhawksurf]

Hey Crew-

Newbie here. I'm about to order a new SR5 Premium 4WD from a dealer as they're apparently impossible to find on the lot. Really excited to ditch my 9 year old Civic...so sick of driving a MT, not having cargo room for my gear, and having to chain up in the winter.

Doing some digging on the Toyota website, it seems the main package options are as follows (aside from the factor/dealer accessories):

[QD] - 30th Anniversary Discount
[PT] - Premium Package
[KH] - Rigid Running Boards
[CD] - Sliding Cargo Desk
[TI] - 3rd Row Seat
[HP] - Hood Protector

These lead to a few questions (some of which might be better answered by the dealer)..

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?
2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?
3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

Thanks all. Sure these won't be my last questions.

You should definitely get the $6,000 supercharger. That was my first post here. I'm still recovering. JK

 

[NoDak]

[CD] - Sliding Cargo Desk
[TI] - 3rd Row Seat

these are mutually exclusive of each other.

 

[tnine]

Welcome ChloroFriend, I'm a newbie as well. I just picked up a slightly used certified 2014 SR5 from the dealer. It has a 3rd row seat, so I lose about 6" of storage space in the back when the seats are folded down. They don't really work for anyone taller than 5'10" due to the low ceiling. They have come in handy once already for a hiking trip. I'm still not convinced they're worth the loss of storage space.

I personally wasn't a fan of their running boards after trying them. I'm afraid I would accidentally end up tearing them off.

I'm in be same boat as you for intended usage. I live in Colorado, and I'll be doing some hairy forrest access roads. However, I don't envision myself doing any rock crawling. I personally am going to get some sliders, skid plates, bull bar, and some AT tires. I think this will protect my vehicle, and give me the capability I need without seriously sacrificing on road performance.

 

[philsey]

As to options, be aware that your SALES REGION determines which Toyota options it will offer. That's why you are required to enter your zip code into the builder. If you enter a different zone's zip code, you will likely get different options. Many forum members travel to get what they want.

Determining Your Region for Toyota Deals
Toyota divides the country into 12 regions, offering different deals in each. The territories are listed below. As you research your purchase, keep in mind that you’re not limited to the region you live in.
If there is a significantly better deal available in another region, it might be worth the trouble to travel and buy there. If someone offered you a few thousand dollars to drive to a nearby state and back, you might very well take the deal -- why not make the same drive to save that money on a new car? Once you know your region, make sure you check out the Best Toyota deals available to you.
New England Region -- Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island
Greater New York Region -- New York, New Jersey, Connecticut
Central Atlantic Region -- Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, District of Columbia
Southeast Region -- North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida
Western Region -- Missouri, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota
Ohio Valley Region -- Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, Tennessee
Midwest Region -- Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota
Mountain Region -- Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Wyoming
Gulf States Region -- Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi
Northern CA Region -- California north of the Los Angeles metro area
Southern CA Region -- Los Angeles metro area, and areas south
Pacific Northwest Region -- Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana

 

[philsey]

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?
2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?
3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.
.

1. See my other post. Again, unless you travel outside your region, you are not likely to get choices other than what your Region offers. Toyota does not offer a menu like some USA mfgrs.
2. "Good"? Are they of good quality - yes. Will they work for you? - you have to decide that. I'm 5'10", I got them for my short wife, but I use them every time in and out, I just find it easier.
3. You'll get no consensus here. Some like it, some hate it. Same with the 3rd row. Personally, I wouldn't consider putting kids back there - not safe imo.

 

[ChloroFiend]

As to options, be aware that your SALES REGION determines which Toyota options it will offer. That's why you are required to enter your zip code into the builder. If you enter a different zone's zip code, you will likely get different options. Many forum members travel to get what they want.

So about that..

Based on my region (NorCal) and several others I spot checked, it says I can't build a 4x2. That being said, there's a metric crap ton of them on dealer lots here. How does that work?

 

[05Rrunner]

Hey Crew-

Newbie here. I'm about to order a new SR5 Premium 4WD from a dealer as they're apparently impossible to find on the lot. Really excited to ditch my 9 year old Civic...so sick of driving a MT, not having cargo room for my gear, and having to chain up in the winter.

Doing some digging on the Toyota website, it seems the main package options are as follows (aside from the factor/dealer accessories):

[QD] - 30th Anniversary Discount
[PT] - Premium Package
[KH] - Rigid Running Boards
[CD] - Sliding Cargo Desk
[TI] - 3rd Row Seat
[HP] - Hood Protector

These lead to a few questions (some of which might be better answered by the dealer)..

1.) Am I missing any other options that are worth considering?
2.) Are the OEM running boards any good, or should I delete em? Is the step in too high without some kind of step/running board?
3.) What's the opinion on the sliding cargo deck? Kind of torn there.

Thanks all. Sure these won't be my last questions.

Couple suggestions , Toyota very much limits their build online functions by ZIP Code they limit to whats on hand most times. I suggest going to the website trying different ZIP Codes in around the country , East Coast so on and so fourth. Another great resource is KBB.com it lists all the options and prices it's a great tool.
I'm in California and I also always special order my Toyotas
Good luck