Please sell me on 05 T4R over 05 Xterra

[MichaelEliis]

The 05 4Runner is a really nice truck. For the past few months I've been researching vehicles to replace my current car, and the whole time the 4R has been the top choice because of its power, off-road capability, refinement, and styling.

After test driving, though, I found the driver legroom to be a little short (but none of the other midsize and fullsized SUVs I tested really had any more) and the headroom was really short (and even worse with the moonroof).

Since none of the other midsize or larger SUVs really improved the legroom situation, I was ready to pull the trigger on a 4x4 V6 SR5. But then I found that the Xterra, even though it's a compact Ute, had at least an inch more legroom and headroom.

I could definitely feel the extra space when sitting in it. I really like that you can get a manual transmission, it tows the same amount as the 4R, and the Xterra has about an inch more ground clearance.

I don't rock hop, but I do a lot of camping, and carry 3-4 people, gear, and a couple kayaks through mud or sand or snow and across small creeks. So the Xterra would probably do fine, but I can't help but feel it's a cheesy vehicle compared to the 4Runner.

Other than space, the Xterra's interior sucks in comparison. Nissan doesn't have anything near Toyota's reputation for reliability or resale value, the 4Runner is a proven off-road champion, there were major problems with the previous gen Xterra (like filling its 5-person capacity meant going over its tires' designed load), and its styling is gimmicky whereas the 4Runner is a serious truck.

Man, if only the 4Runners seats went back and down a little further this wouldn't be so conflicting!

 

[jxr209]

Well, it looks like the Xterra is what you feel happier with but you're just worried about it's reliability. You should ask yourself how long do I plan on keep this truck and how much abuse I'm gonna dish out.
The 4R will of course out last the Xterra.

 

[Kanab]

I suggest you look at the GX470, if a new one is out of your price range then you might look at a used GX470. I know they have more head room, don't know about the leg room? I have the 4runner and a Nissan and I am on the Nissan 350Z site often. Nissans have more problems then Toyotas. I've had good luck with my 350Z but it does not have the same quality feel that the 4runner has and it's their "Flagship" vehicle. If you are not comfortable driving the 4runner then I would not buy it. Also look at used Landcruisers/Lexus LX470's (2000 - 2002), get one with 50-70K miles on it and it will be good for 300K miles with very few problems. Hope you get what works for you.

 

[MichaelEliis]

Taking after my parents, my intent is to keep vehicles for at least 10 years. My current (and first) car is nearly 12.

As for abuse, it'll spend a lot of time off the pavement, but most of the time that will just mean dirt or limerock roads of various qualities, getting from one campsite to another.

 

[rivertrek]

I had some of the same issues myself when looking at the 4runner. For me it was a toss up between the Tundra Double Cab and the 4runner. Being 6'-3" tall the headroom felt a little low in the Runner. I had to go with the SR5 option so there wouldn't be a sunroof. I can't fit in the Runner with a sunroof, not enough headroom. As far as legroom goes I can push the seat all the way back and then for extra comfort I tilt the seat back a little more. Believe me this helps.

It's the 4WD options that really sold me on the Runner. Plus the size of the Runner lends itself better to my hobbies. The Tundra was just too big for some of the roads I travel on to kayak, and the Runner does excellent. I also have to do some water crossing or some serious sloppy mud on the roads to get to the rivers I boat. The 4runner is hands down the best for these conditions, even with the Dunlop tires on it. I still want to replace them though once they wear out.

I have had up to 5 people and a roof top full of kayaks and paddles and the rest of the gear in the back and have been plenty comfy. Not as comfy as having nobody else in the car, but when you're all excited about getting on the river it doesn't matter if you are stuffed in like a bunch of clowns at a circus.

I do recommend the V8 though. The amount of power and especially the torque is greatly appreciated when you are loaded down with gear and people and pulling step hills on the freeway and still being able to do 70-80 MPH or more.

As for the resale value, people know what they can get in a used Toyota and are willing to pay a higher price for that reliability. Same goes for a new Toyota. Pay a little more now up front for a better vehicle and less later on repairs, unlike that

 

[Northof49]

How tall are you exactly?

I'm 6'2, 220lbs and I fit just fine in a 4Runner....I don't even put the seat all the way back.

My hair touches the edge of the sunroof....but that's consistent with the 100's of other vehicles I've been in with sunroofs.

 

[rivertrek]

How tall are you exactly?

I'm 6'2, 220lbs and I fit just fine in a 4Runner....I don't even put the seat all the way back.

My hair touches the edge of the sunroof....but that's consistent with the 100's of other vehicles I've been in with sunroofs.

Your overall height is only part of the problem/solution. What really matters is the length of your legs. Some people have longer legs while others have shorter legs, but they could all be the same height.

 

[Kmvreter]

Taking after my parents, my intent is to keep vehicles for at least 10 years. My current (and first) car is nearly 12.

You just answered your own question. Look at the total cost of ownership. I think you would be buying into an expensive 10 years without going Toyota.
Also, it's all what you can get used to for comfort. I wasn't 100% originally sold on the T4R seating but now I don't even notice.

 

[MichaelEliis]

How tall are you exactly?

I'm 6'2, 220lbs and I fit just fine in a 4Runner....I don't even put the seat all the way back.

My hair touches the edge of the sunroof....but that's consistent with the 100's of other vehicles I've been in with sunroofs.

6'6, 240. My leg position while driving isn't all that uncomfortable (probably third best of the trucks I test drove), but there's absolutely no space behind the pedals to stretch occasionally.

On models with a moonroof, I either have to lean the seat WAY back, or lean to the side so my head fits under the glass. On models without the moonroof I hit my head when going over bumps.

 

[greasefingers]

Did you try the Trailblazer/Envoy. It

 

[BenSD]

I'm 6'3", so the interior size was important to me. I could not fit into the model with the sun roof. I would have liked to have the sunroof, but that just couldn't happen. With regard to leg room, when I first got my 4R, I had the seat all the way back, the chair all the way down. I then kicked up the front of the seat. It was comfortable for a while, but something wasn't quite right. I then raised up the rear of the seat a bit, and moved it forward. It's a LOT more comfortable that way. So in short, I'm 6'3", and I have my seat moved forward a ways. You may think you need more leg space, but if you adjust the seat a little differently, you may not need it after all.

With regard to ground clearance, you could always add a Revtek lift to get a few more inches.

 

[bulldog-yota]

The ground clearance on the 4Runner and Xterra is pretty much the same. 9.1 vs 9.5. The approach angle on the Xterra is better but its departure angle is worse than the 4Runner. And remember when loading up with gear and people the butt is the end that drags. So this part is a 50/50 decision.

If your buddies are also 6'6" or so the 4Runner is not for you, it is simply too small inside. I'm 6'3" and I can do the self behind self and just make it comfortably with the moonroof. The lack of footspace under the front seats really makes the back feel more cramped than it needs to be. If your buddies are smaller, then get one without the moonroof and everybody should be fine.

I dont know what your budget or detailed requirements are, but a used LC100 might be a good pick (like pitbull said). If you have the $$$$ a GX would be nice too, but I dont think you want to go all lux.

To be honest with you though, by the sounds of it the Xterra is probably the best suited for your requirements. It is nice and cheap, has the space you require and looks nice and rugged. If you can live with its flaws go for it. Just remember you will have to take a big hit in ride quality and overall comfort. ALso keep in mind how many miles you will drive and how many you will go camping. I see this very often, people only think of the one requirement for the vehicle and not the total package. It is like somebody buying a Jeep RUbicon cause they go offroad maybe once a month, but have to use it as a daily driver for a 70mile trip everyday. I would gladly sacrifice some offroad capibility to gain more comfort for something I do 90% of the time. Maybe tell your buddies to suck it up Get a 4Runner without a moonroof and put the seat back.

Toyota are dragging their heels getting a vehicle for this segment of the market and I dont know when the FJ Cruiser will be availible, but I think rear legroom will be probably slightly less than the 4Runner.

 

[noodlesfusion]

well i used to own an xterra myself and all i can say is go with the 4runner... nissans are pretty unreliable and the money you spend on it (24k?) you might as well go with something that is actually worth the money spent and give you a good resale value... dont get me wrong.. i used to love my xterra but it pissed me off everytime i had to take it to get it fixed every 2 months... and the rear shims would squeek all the time even after it was replaced and greased.. i just wish i wouldve bought a 4runner b4..

 

[Mark86]

I am a fairly tall guy (6' 2'') and I don't have any problems hitting my head in my truck. The only thing is I have my seat on the lowest position and a the back part a little reclined. On the other hand, when I go into my dad's truck, he sits with the seat raised and the back pretty straight up, my head scuffs the roof. Both of the trucks have a sunroof. If you feel that you are going to be unhappy or uncomfortable in the 4Runner, then it is not for you. The 4Runner is a nice and reliable truck and is definitely built better than the Xterra, but you have to be comfortable driving it as well. If I was in your situation, I would definitely test drive both vehicles again. Play with the seat on the 4Runner and see if you can find a setting that is comfortable for you. You are going to keep the truck you buy for a long period of time so you have to make sure that it is the right for you. Good luck!

 

[snap315]

I was in a Similar situation as you

I was debating the exact same issue as you are.

I'm 6'1" @ 200 lbs. with long legs.

To get comfortable in a 4Runner w/sunroof I have to put the seat all the way back and all the way down.

This was a HUGE issue for me and I had decided against the 4Runner based on this one issue.

Until I realized something while searhing for a better fitting vehicle...

I had to put the seats all the way back on almost ALL the SUV's I tested, including the fullsize ones.

In the 4Runner w/sunroof when the seat is all the way back it's almost perfect. Actually it's a little too far back sometimes. :

My brother loved (past tense) the Nissan Xterra and planned on replacing his Maxima with one soon until I had him sit in a 4Runner. He's 6'3" @ 200 lbs and loved the fit of the vehicle.

One thing you really have to test...

Adjust the 4Runner drivers seat the best you can and then get in the passanger seat behind it. Then do the same to the Xterra.

Since you said you often travel with 3 or 4 people I think you'll have your answer once you compare the rear seat room of both.

Good luck on whatever you decide to get.

 

[MichaelEliis]

Re: I was in a Similar situation as you

I had to put the seats all the way back on almost ALL the SUV's I tested, including the fullsize ones.

Yeah, same here. None of the fullsize ones I looked at were any better than the 4Runner. I don't know why a compact ute was able to beat it. Probably because they don't have to engineer for a third row of seats.

Adjust the 4Runner drivers seat the best you can and then get in the passanger seat behind it. Then do the same to the Xterra.

Since you said you often travel with 3 or 4 people I think you'll have your answer once you compare the rear seat room of both.

Trust me, I always test that. And I was shocked when the Xterra had more legroom in the rear, too (although it had substantially less hiproom in the back). Again, it's got to be the no-third row seats thing. Even in the 4Runners with just two rows, the seats are in the same place as the three-row ones.

I've sat in an SR5 (first with a moonroof, then with none) for about half an hour trying to get the seat in a comfortable position. I REALLY wanted that truck, but I don't think it is to be.

 

[fastlif306]

Buy a doublecab Tacoma. they have more legroom. Just a thought. Nissan, ok, Toyota AOK.

 

[Bluto]

Buy a doublecab Tacoma. they have more legroom. Just a thought. Nissan, ok, Toyota AOK.

A Tacoma is a good idea. But a much longer vehicle.

Have you tried the power seats in a Limited? They may adjust more, fit better. But then you have a sunroof.

Used LC is also a good idea.

 

[Thai]

How about a Mercedes G500 (new or used)?? Lots of headroom and legroom.

 

[snap315]

Re: Re: I was in a Similar situation as you

Trust me, I always test that. And I was shocked when the Xterra had more legroom in the rear, too (although it had substantially less hiproom in the back). Again, it's got to be the no-third row seats thing. Even in the 4Runners with just two rows, the seats are in the same place as the three-row ones.

I've sat in an SR5 (first with a moonroof, then with none) for about half an hour trying to get the seat in a comfortable position. I REALLY wanted that truck, but I don't think it is to be.

I'm not sure what you're talking about there.

The Xterra has LESS rear leg room than the 4Runner... ALOT less in fact. :bash:

In a 4Runner I can sit in the back WITHOUT my legs touching the seats up front. In the Xterra my knees poke into the drivers seat alot and in fact I have to sit with my knees to the sides in order to be even close to comfortable.

The Xterra does have more headroom in the back but I still have an inch or 2 clearance in the 4Runner.

You might want to go back and re-check you info. I've got a tape measure and will get the exact numbers if you need the help. :