Range Rover Sport owner looking to switch to the 4R

[engineeer]

Lots of great replies, thanks a lot everyone. I definitely need some more time behind the wheel of the 4R. Many people commented on it, but I'm not worried about the "step-down" in terms of luxury or how people perceive me behind the wheel of what I drive. I bought the RRS because I got a great deal and because I liked the way it looked and performed, not for the badge or the type of leather inside (I actually prefer cloth ).

Can't help you out on comparison to the RRS, however my guess would be your transition would be easier to a Limited with real leather and the cooled seats and climate control etc (I run hot. I rented an explorer with cooled seats a few months back in Wyoming in the middle of summer and my god they're incredible, pipes cool air right up your gooch which will cool you right down).

The cooled seats in the 4R Limited are some of the best I've ever experienced. Less than a minute at the full setting and my back was cold through a t-shirt and jacket.

Driving with some sense you will get between 340-400 miles from a tank. That's it. Why don't you fill up BEFORE at that "1/3 of the way back station" you get to Tahoe? Like when you still have 1/2 a tank?

Personal preference. I can fill up wherever, but it's nice not having to stop for gas when I'm up in Tahoe. I don't care about mpg in terms of the cost of driving it, but I also am not a fan of being at the gas station constantly. That's what my E39 M5 is for

Have you considered the Lexus GX460? Has all the luxuries you'd want, a V8, Toyota reliability and while the list of available mods is nowhere near as much as the 4R it's still based off the same platform so aftermarket suspension bits should fit in the same. Unless you're doing rock crawling the GX460 should take you anywhere a 4R would.

I'll take a look at it, but I like the rugged "unfancy-ness" of the 4R to be honest. I don't baby my vehicles (RRS is filthy inside and out right now), so it would be nice to not care as much about keeping a fancy vehicle clean.

How am I supposed to keep up with all these people called engineer?!? I mean there's [MENTION=66316]1engineer[/MENTION] and [MENTION=96008]Engineer[/MENTION] and now there's [MENTION=152226]engineeer[/MENTION] ...... sheesh

:yield:

 

[SirBarton]

I went from 4Runner to Range Rover and back to 4Runner. Any 4Runner is wildly different from a Range Rover Sport.

A 4Runner Limited can't come close to competing in the Luxury feel of the Range Rover. If that is a big attraction to you, you will miss it when you "downgrade" to the 4Runner. It's going from a loaded Lexus to a Camry. The interior on the limited doesn't come close to Range Rover interior and the vinyl seats in the Trail Premium or TRD will never compare.

You will miss the power of the Range Rover when climbing hills.

However, your 4Runner will go anywhere, cost less, never be in the shop. I got tired of replacing power window motors and poorly engineered servo motors all over the Range Rover. Also brakes! - Damn i'm glad I'm not paying for those RR brake jobs anymore.

My SUV is my 2nd car. So I decided I'd rather have a Trail 4Runner that I can use on the weekends and for adventures and stick to the creature comforts of a more luxury sedan for day to day.

Having been on this forum for a while, I've seen a lot of complaints (sometimes justified, often wishful dreaming) about the 4Runner interior from guys coming from Audis, BMWs, Ranger Rovers, etc. You simply can't compare an RR or an X5 to a Limited 4Runner. It's not a fair fight on the inside. If your favorite thing about the RR is how you feel inside it, maybe you should look at a Land Cruiser or Lexus LX?

Otherwise, I can't say anything bad about a 4Runner.

 

[mybabydaddy]

...pretty much everything has already been stated... So for the (insert dramatic # here)th time, I will repeat my 4Runner mantra...

If you enjoy it for everything it is, and nothing it isn’t, you will absolutely love owning/driving a 4Runner (any model... see sig below). But if you have a “hang up” on any lacking quality of the 4Runner, then you will ultimately never be happy owning one.... regardless of what any of us on here tell you.

 

[roborob1969]

I have friends with RRs that love them for 2-3 years then wish they would be stolen or burst into flames.

OMG.. that's hilarious! lol

 

[engineeer]

I went from 4Runner to Range Rover and back to 4Runner. Any 4Runner is wildly different from a Range Rover Sport.

A 4Runner Limited can't come close to competing in the Luxury feel of the Range Rover. If that is a big attraction to you, you will miss it when you "downgrade" to the 4Runner. It's going from a loaded Lexus to a Camry. The interior on the limited doesn't come close to Range Rover interior and the vinyl seats in the Trail Premium or TRD will never compare.

You will miss the power of the Range Rover when climbing hills.

However, your 4Runner will go anywhere, cost less, never be in the shop. I got tired of replacing power window motors and poorly engineered servo motors all over the Range Rover. Also brakes! - Damn i'm glad I'm not paying for those RR brake jobs anymore.

My SUV is my 2nd car. So I decided I'd rather have a Trail 4Runner that I can use on the weekends and for adventures and stick to the creature comforts of a more luxury sedan for day to day.

Having been on this forum for a while, I've seen a lot of complaints (sometimes justified, often wishful dreaming) about the 4Runner interior from guys coming from Audis, BMWs, Ranger Rovers, etc. You simply can't compare an RR or an X5 to a Limited 4Runner. It's not a fair fight on the inside. If your favorite thing about the RR is how you feel inside it, maybe you should look at a Land Cruiser or Lexus LX?

Otherwise, I can't say anything bad about a 4Runner.

Great feedback, thanks. I spent about 15 minutes inside the 4R and I liked the interior--it was rugged, simple, and felt correct for the type of vehicle it is (adventure/outdoors/utilitarian). I spent some time pushing on various surfaces to see if there was any creaking or give due to poor assembly/engineering and didn't find anything like that. The RRS has a simple and elegant interior, but it better given that it's a $70k+ luxury SUV lol

I looked at the GX and it doesn't do it for me. A little too pretty on the outside.

Speaking of... the OP should probably be warned that the LE stock wheels are trouble; best ordering others from the dealer or aftermarket wheels for a new set of tires.

Unless it's only on-road performance he craves.

And, if there are any questions about whether tires will fit, [MENTION=66316]1engineer[/MENTION] is always ready to answer.

I'd probably keep it stock for a month or so, then grab the 17" TRD matte black rims (really dig those) and put on some KO2s or Cooper ATPs. The 4R definitely looks like it could use some spacers to help out with the stance and make it look less wobbly if that makes sense.

 

[Hemoglobin]

So my progression of vehicles looked like this. . .

2000 Range Rover SE
2003 350z w/ APS Twin Turbo
2005 Mercedes E320CDI
2006 Mercedes E320CDI w/ Kleeman goodies
2013 4Runner SR5

Honestly, The Range Rover was a sweet vehicle. The 2000's traction control is honestly probably better than my 2013 4Runner. It could do some things in wet grass and gravel inclines with a slow dignity that just isn't the 4Runner's style. The Yota would get there quicker and all but just with more snarl and slinging stuff.

That said, that RR freaking broke something every other week. I went through 2.5 feet of water and broke a... coolant basket? Seriously?

I just got my Total Chaos UCA and Toytec lift put on and honestly that's how the stock rig should ride.

I went with the SR5 because I know how much I like to tinker. I don't miss the leather. My butt isn't hot in the summer and cold in the winter. etc. That's all subjective. Since you came from the Rover I will say this... Find a good local small shop. The Nissan Dealer in the Tri Cities TN was slightly ahead of the 3 local Toyota Dealers around Knoxville TN... the LR and MB obviously miles ahead. That said the MB location in Kingsport TN is a dumpster fire so ymmv. I just cant stand the Toyota dealerships around here and finally found a shop I trust.

 

[SirBarton]

Great feedback, thanks. I spent about 15 minutes inside the 4R and I liked the interior--it was rugged, simple, and felt correct for the type of vehicle it is (adventure/outdoors/utilitarian). I spent some time pushing on various surfaces to see if there was any creaking or give due to poor assembly/engineering and didn't find anything like that. The RRS has a simple and elegant interior, but it better given that it's a $70k+ luxury SUV lol

I looked at the GX and it doesn't do it for me. A little too pretty on the outside.



I'd probably keep it stock for a month or so, then grab the 17" TRD matte black rims (really dig those) and put on some KO2s or Cooper ATPs. The 4R definitely looks like it could use some spacers to help out with the stance and make it look less wobbly if that makes sense.

I think you'll be happy in a 4Runner based on your responses - but do yourself a favor and google some of the GX's that have been modded for overlanding. If nothing else than just to see what people have been doing with them lately. I've seen some killer builds that made me lust after a GX.

They aren't that different than the 4Runner and up until recently they look pretty great once you get some real tires and bumpers on them.

The new Predator grills though, oof.

 

[FourEyedWilly]

Funny enough I posted this morning on this thread but tonight I walk out to my truck at the grocery store and there is a RR parked awkwardly next to my 4Runner with a gentleman standing outside looking at my truck. About swallowed my heart thinking he had hit me. Naw, he was just checking out my 4Runner. He's thinking about doing the same thing you are OP. Specifically a Cement Pro.

You are not alone!

 

[engineeer]

Funny enough I posted this morning on this thread but tonight I walk out to my truck at the grocery store and there is a RR parked awkwardly next to my 4Runner with a gentleman standing outside looking at my truck. About swallowed my heart thinking he had hit me. Naw, he was just checking out my 4Runner. He's thinking about doing the same thing you are OP. Specifically a Cement Pro.

You are not alone!

That's hilarious--4Runners have a mysterious appeal.

 

[Toffees]

I'd probably keep it stock for a month or so, then grab the 17" TRD matte black rims (really dig those) and put on some KO2s or Cooper ATPs. The 4R definitely looks like it could use some spacers to help out with the stance and make it look less wobbly if that makes sense.

Well, once you start making changes for looks that's an addiction that will probably run it's own course, but I think you can be ok with the stance of the LE with stock suspension. You're also limited in what you can do with spacers, but a small front or front/back set should be fine.

Also, is your name simply Engineer with an extra "e", or is it in any way a Beastie Boys reference, because now I have one of their songs stuck in my head.

 

[engineeer]

Well, once you start making changes for looks that's an addiction that will probably run it's own course, but I think you can be ok with the stance of the LE with stock suspension. You're also limited in what you can do with spacers, but a small front or front/back set should be fine.

Also, is your name simply Engineer with an extra "e", or is it in any way a Beastie Boys reference, because now I have one of their songs stuck in my head.

I can already see that happening. I used to browse the pictures on this forum and only really wanted to do tires and maybe a small lift. Now I'm like, "Well it would be silly not to put a beefier bumper on. Will likely need a nice roof rack too. Oh should probably get a ladder so I can climb up there. A winch too in case I get myself stuck off-roading or need to pull someone else out" and on and on lol

It's "engineer" with an extra "e"

 

[Toffees]

I can already see that happening. I used to browse the pictures on this forum and only really wanted to do tires and maybe a small lift. Now I'm like, "Well it would be silly not to put a beefier bumper on. Will likely need a nice roof rack too. Oh should probably get a ladder so I can climb up there. A winch too in case I get myself stuck off-roading or need to pull someone else out" and on and on lol

It's "engineer" with an extra "e"

Nobody has ever done this to an LE... you'll be cutting a new path

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/163653-2014-unlimited-mods.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-g...a-4runner-build**-2011-le-zombie-crusher.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/74306-dlak-5th-gen-build-thread.html


Plus quite a few that are modified a little less than these

 

[engineeer]

Nobody has ever done this to an LE... you'll be cutting a new path

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/163653-2014-unlimited-mods.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-g...a-4runner-build**-2011-le-zombie-crusher.html
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/74306-dlak-5th-gen-build-thread.html


Plus quite a few that are modified a little less than these

Don't forget Magnetic4R's build: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/215361-magnetic4r-limited-transformation.html

 

[LandCruiser]

If you're used to an upscale interior, get the GX and just avoid the 4Runner altogether.

If you want famous British reliability, just remember to pour half a gallon of bleach into the gas tank with every fill up.

 

[Toffees]

Don't forget Magnetic4R's build: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/215361-magnetic4r-limited-transformation.html

I like his work a lot, but no bumpers so I didn't stick it in. I can't link them all for the OP... I mean even if I wanted to waste all my time here (which I would probably enjoy) and build lists of all like materials (which I would also probably enjoy, but you've done a good job so far), I've also got other websites to waste my time on between conference calls, so...

 

[e60ral]

Is Adventure Driven still selling their Lexus? go buy that

 

[Adventure-Yeti]

[MENTION=96008]Engineer[/MENTION]

So I have a 2012 RRS HSE Lux - Non-supercharged. It's got about 62K on the ODO and has been fantastic through ownership. We purchased it new.

We run BFG K02 32" tires and the Black-Rhino 2.5" Lift rods that trick the suspension to remain in full-height mode. Along with some other ARB tid-bits the trucks been great on & off-road. Our goal is to keep this truck until it completely dies.

We have had the following hiccups occur, however:

+ Rear parking brake (electronic) failure. *Covered by LR no-charge fix. Ended up being a glitch in the system causing the inside shoe to lock-up. Sketchy, had a ton of smoke coming out the rear followed by some aggressive shaking.

+ MAF Failure (something debris wise screwed up the actuator) *Covered by LR no charge.

+ Dead batteries. (Don't operate the rear power liftgate when camping too much) it will die super quick.

Future fears of failure include air-suspension, electronics, and possible engine issues. We currently hear a "click" which could be the timing belt.

Out of warranty now, and I am opting to do a majority of the work myself. Like oil-change (easy), front brakes (easy) and basic things like air filter change/cabin filter change etc. The rest will be forking out money at LR to perform. They do charge a ton for work, so good luck to me and you!

I love my 4runner, and gave the wife the RR to drive daily because I got over it. We both only commute 10 miles round-trip daily for work so it's not too bad.

You won't be bummed about going to a 16+ 4runner, they are built like tanks and should last forever. Maintenance is a lot less too! My TRD Pro 4runner has similar fuel economy as my RRS. You will def. miss the power (torque) of the V8 in the Range- the 4runner is a dog off the line.

Best-

 

[philsey]

Future fears of failure include air-suspension, electronics, and possible engine issues. We currently hear a "click" which could be the timing belt.

The rest will be forking out money at LR to perform. They do charge a ton for work, so good luck to me and you!

Our goal is to keep this truck until it completely dies.

Kinda sounds like that could be sooner rather than later.

:lookout:

 

[CoolMax]

[MENTION=96008]Engineer[/MENTION]

You forgot an "e"...:llama:

 

[Lolrax]

If you want to go from something quick to something very slow then make the switch!