Shopping for a new vehicle, 4Runner vs Grand Highlander Hybrid vs ??

[docboy]

Hi everyone,

My current DD is a 2009 Lexus LX 570 with 167k miles. It's a great SUV but I am thinking of passing it down to my daughter who recently got her driver's license.

I've been studying Consumer Reports ad nauseam on which auto to get. Preference is a SUV that is reliable, AWD/4WD, comfortable, and preferably 30+ mpg as my LX 570 is getting me 14mpg.

*My original top choice was the 2023 Rav4 Prime. Since I commute daily 70 miles, it would have been a great gas saver. Then I find out the Prime rare and often has crazy dealership markups; the deal breaker was when I sat in a Prime and found out it has a wide center console and narrow seats to boot. The center console really squashed my right knee/leg and impeded my right leg, no room to move and relax my legs. So the Rav4 Prime and Hybrid is no deal.

*Then I tried the 2024 Highlander Hybrid, even worse if you can believe it. The slightest movement of my right leg and it keeps hitting the center console. Plus there was just too much room besides my left arm, no where to naturally rest my left arm. Absolutely weird driving position.

*Next I tried the 2024 Grand Highlander Hybrid. Much better than the regular Highlander, but the center console is even wider than that of the Highlander and I do find my right knee bumping into the center console when I am not driving and am just sitting in the driver's seat. Plus for some reason I can't really rest my left arm on the driver's side door in a natural position near the window, it's as if a panel on the driver's side door is too high up. I don't recall my right knee/leg hitting the center console when driving, perhaps I need to test drive it again.

*I also sat in the 2023 Lexus RX and 2024 Lexus TX, same wide center console, though the TX is similar to that of the GHH.

*For kicks after reading some Reddit sub forums, I sat in a 2024 Honda Passport, my right knee would hit the center console at rest. Then found a 2024 Honda Pilot, my right knee would also hit the center console, plus I found where my left foot rests, there is something on the floor that's not allowing my left to rest comfortably.

So I gave up on the Honda due to the center console issue, and that the newer Honda's/Acura's are no where near as reliable as the Honda/Acura of the past.

Doing a little more research I found a 2023 4Runner Off Road Premium to sit in. The 4Runner fits me like a glove. No stupid wide center console, my left arm can rest on the driver's side door comfortably, and the seats are pretty comfy. The 4Runner's center area is at the same level as of the seat's bottom cushion, which is great and is similar to that of my LX. Only downside (to me at least) about the 4Runner is that it only gets 16/19 mpg; it's marginally better than the 13/17 mpg my LX570 is rated for, but I was hoping for 30+mpg. Similarly the new Tacoma is also comfortable fwiw, but not really looking for a truck.

So I narrowed down my current choices to the 4Runner and the GH Hybrid.
Pros of the 4Runner are:
-Most comfortable natural driving position
-Extremely reliable, proven V6 engine/transmission/body
-Great 4WD/AWD system (depending if I chose the Off Road or Limited) that can go anywhere in the snow (important for me in the winter time)
-Lots of cargo space in the rear
-Readily available, I'm seeing Off Premium/Limited $2-3k off MSRP.
Cons of the 4Runner:
-mediocre 16/19 gas mileage.
-due for design, 6th gen coming out but who knows when

Pros of the Grand Highlander Hybrid:
-Updated modern interior, lots of storage space
-Engine/CVT transmission is based on Prius, so should be reliable? Unsure...
-Great gas mileage at 36/32
-Even more cargo space than the 4Runner

Cons of the Grand Highlander Hybrid:
-Questionable seating comfort due to wide center console and uncertain left arm resting position, may have to keep adjusting the seat to find a good spot
-1st year of a new vehicle, reliability issues might arise. I'm already reading reports of people not being able to fill the gas tank completely and also possible issues with the doors and water drainage
-Reactive AWD system is not full time AWD and likely not as sophisticated as the 4Runner, so may not be as good in the snow
-Vehicle is very wide, unsure if it can fit in garage
-Limited quantities, may have to wait many months and/or pay over MSRP

So my main issue is the big wide center consoles these new cars/SUVs have. Doesn't seem to matter how big the SUV is, even wide huge SUVs can have wide center consoles that impinge on my right knee. FWIW I'm only 5'11" and 170 lbs, I'm not an overly tall or large person, but maybe my legs and/or thighs are just wide and bowled shape, who knows.

Realizing this is a 4Runner forum, I am seeking opinions on if the 4Runner is a better option, or perhaps I should think about the Grand Highlander Hybrid some more. I'm not a fan of the current Lexus GX due to it's barn rear door. I thought the new Lexus GX could be an option, but online pictures suggest a wide center console. Perhaps the new 2024 Land Cruiser might be an option and may be more gas efficient than the 4Runner, but I can't tell from the pics if the center console will be wide, and the new turbo charged engine might not be as reliable as the V6 engine in the 4Runner.

Thoughts anyone? Anyone running into issues with the center consoles on newer vehicles?

 

[Horsethief]

Sounds like you're doing your due diligence.

Personally, I never recommend the 4R to anyone not needing off-road or extreme all-weather capability. I feel like there are a lot of compromises in ride, handling, NVH, and economy made when choosing the 4R. If you're using it off-road, or as a tool to get through a foot of snow to the lake house, etc those can be worth it, but for a daily driven commuter I don't think they are.

I commute 60 miles a day in mine, and it gets a little tedious. I don't think the 4R is going to be as smooth or comfortable as your 200 series, and as you noted, the economy is only marginally better. I think most would agree a 4R is a step down from the LX.

I usually recommend the Highlander to most who consider a 4R for DD use. It does literally everything ONroad better than the 4R. If you're not 100% sold on the new one, maybe take a look at the previous gen with the 3.5V6.

That said, if the 4R is the vehicle you feel the most comfortable in, go for it. I'd recommend the LTD for your use, it'll have the best road manners and lux features.

Another option would be to keep the LX for yourself and spend 50% of what a new 4R costs and get her a Corolla or similar.

 

[docboy]

Sounds like you're doing your due diligence.

Personally, I never recommend the 4R to anyone not needing off-road or extreme all-weather capability. I feel like there are a lot of compromises in ride, handling, NVH, and economy made when choosing the 4R. If you're using it off-road, or as a tool to get through a foot of snow to the lake house, etc those can be worth it, but for a daily driven commuter I don't think they are.

I commute 60 miles a day in mine, and it gets a little tedious. I don't think the 4R is going to be as smooth or comfortable as your 200 series, and as you noted, the economy is only marginally better. I think most would agree a 4R is a step down from the LX.

I usually recommend the Highlander to most who consider a 4R for DD use. It does literally everything ONroad better than the 4R. If you're not 100% sold on the new one, maybe take a look at the previous gen with the 3.5V6.

That said, if the 4R is the vehicle you feel the most comfortable in, go for it. I'd recommend the LTD for your use, it'll have the best road manners and lux features.

Another option would be to keep the LX for yourself and spend 50% of what a new 4R costs and get her a Corolla or similar.

I test drove a 2023 4R Limited with my wife yesterday. For a vehicle design that is what, 15 years old, the chair/arm rests/center console area fits my body like a glove. Last time I drove a 4R was about 7-8 years ago, but this time the 2023 Limited feels more updated. Wife esp like the cooled/heated leather seats, various pieces of wood trims, and also like the automatic running boards. I like the Android Auto/Apple Carplay. The pano view/parking sensors worked nicely when I tried backing up in tight spaces. Overall felt weirdly similar to my 09 LX, albeit with more safety features (ie. blind spot monitoring system), but also felt more nimble and easier to maneuver in traffic than the LX.

I sat in a 2024 Highlander again, no bueno. As much as I like the 36mpg the HiHy gets, I just couldn't stand the Highlander's narrow seats and odd seating position. Center console kept getting in the way of my right leg and my left arm couldn't find a place to rest.

My first choice is a reliable AWD SUV that gets 30+mpg, but as I'm finding out most new SUVs/cars these days have an intrusive center console, so that eliminates a lot of newer models for me. I'm find out in 2024 it's not easy to find a SUV that is reliable, has AWD, has a comfortable driving position/seats without an intrusive center console, and gets 30mpg. The 4R checks all boxes except the mpg.

I don't go off road very much (maybe take the off beaten path 3-4/yr, but I drive in a fair amount of snow during the winter, and sometimes during the winter we go to ski resorts.

Prior to getting my LX, I was going to get a 4R. The "new" models back then I felt the interior was too dated and it was just hard to get a decent priced 4th gen. Now the 2023/2024s seem more updated, at least to me.

Now the LX is 15 years old. Still going strong, but I foresee more and more repair costs coming up. It's not a cheap vehicle to maintain. I like the idea of getting my daughter a Corolla or a Prius, I might perhaps get myself a 4R and trade in the LX for my daughter for an easier to drive vehicle that gets good mpg and has less maintenance. Will also have to see what the wife says

Perhaps it is fate that I am looking at the 4R again.

 

[trainman605]

After reading your posted list of vehicles I find it pretty hard to make a choice if I were you. No Honda or Toyota is going to be a bad choice on a new vehicle today, as both are pretty darn reliable over the years. At 78 years old I started out with Chevrolets, then went to Hondas and now in the last 2 years we are in Toyotas. My wife went from a Acura RDX to a Lexus RX 350 two years ago and we are very happy with it, so when the day came I started giving the Toyotas a good look at. I first thought I wanted a Tundra as I have always driven a pickup for the last 40 years, but seeing I don't really need a PU these days I started giving other Toyotas a good look at. How I landed on the new 2024 4 Runner TRD Off Road was just something that I really liked and as time passed I couldn't find another vehicle that took my mind of the 4 Runner. Now I will say here I will not off road this vehicle so the 4 Runner is way over kill, but I just liked everything about the 4 Runner, so that what I bought. They always say, test drive it and you will know what you want. My wife thinks it's great.

 

[CorinneDaniel]

Choosing a new vehicle can be quite the journey, and it's important to find one that suits your needs. It's great that you're considering factors like reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort. It sounds like you've done your research and ruled out the Rav4 Prime and Hybrid due to certain issues.
When exploring options, it's always a good idea to check out the latest car news and reviews to stay updated on what's available in the market. You can find insightful information on Car news India to help you make an informed decision.
Don't hesitate to test drive different models and see which one feels right for you.

 

[trainman605]

I decided on a new 2024 4 Runner TRD Off Road mainly because of it being "Old School", and all of the other things this vehicle is known for. Sure the 2025 model will probably be a total upgraded model, but that is something I probably don't need, or want as I'm 78 years old and this could be my last new vehicle, but who knowns. The 2024 has more electronics than I will probably ever use and I'm not a fan of the new 2025 with the 4 cylinder/turbo engine that it will probably have. My wife got a new Lexus RX 350 and it is "Old School also, so I feel good about what I own at this time in my life. Also, fuel mileage is not really a concern for me as we only drive our vehicles some 4000/5000 miles per. What works for one does not necessarily work for the other.

 

[docboy]

I decided on a new 2024 4 Runner TRD Off Road mainly because of it being "Old School", and all of the other things this vehicle is known for. Sure the 2025 model will probably be a total upgraded model, but that is something I probably don't need, or want as I'm 78 years old and this could be my last new vehicle, but who knowns. The 2024 has more electronics than I will probably ever use and I'm not a fan of the new 2025 with the 4 cylinder/turbo engine that it will probably have. My wife got a new Lexus RX 350 and it is "Old School also, so I feel good about what I own at this time in my life. Also, fuel mileage is not really a concern for me as we only drive our vehicles some 4000/5000 miles per. What works for one does not necessarily work for the other.

Hi there, please don't say that your 4R will be your last new vehicle. I recently went through a traumatic family event, and I learned that we all have to treat life with optimism. It's great that you treated yourself to a new truck!

My wife has a NX300H which she has been really happy with. Prior to that she had a RX330, so it sounds like we have similar auto tastes.

Personally I like the new electronics the 2023/2024 4Runners offer. It's not overly extravagant and showy, it "just works."

I've been still debating on the 4R. The only thing kind of holding me back is my desire to want a 30+ mpg vehicle. I was telling my wife yesterday the vehicle I want (probably) does not exist (i.e. reliable, SUV, AWD, 30+ mpg, and no big fat wide center console that intrudes on my right knee/leg space). The 4R offers all except mpg while the Grand Highlander Hybrid offers all except that wide center console, though reliability is too new to tell due to it being a first year model).

 

[AZ Craig]

I've been still debating on the 4R. The only thing kind of holding me back is my desire to want a 30+ mpg vehicle. I was telling my wife yesterday the vehicle I want (probably) does not exist (i.e. reliable, SUV, AWD, 30+ mpg, and no big fat wide center console that intrudes on my right knee/leg space). The 4R offers all except mpg while the Grand Highlander Hybrid offers all except that wide center console, though reliability is too new to tell due to it being a first year model).

Joining this thread late, but I'd definitely not rush into this decision and wait for an opportunity to check out a new Land Cruiser. I'm kind of drooling over the GX550 Overtrail+ currently and the only negative I really see with it is the fuel economy (which is not much better than a 4Runner). At least it has a modern powertrain in it though.

The LC seems like it is going to be several months behind the GX likely, but it could end up fitting your needs a lot better (while also getting 25+ mpg due to the hybrid system). They're going to be painful to get your hands on initially for sure though, so it all comes down to how much time you can wait I think.

 

[trainman605]

I really like this Toyota repair guy, he has several videos on YouTube and this video pretty much answered all my questions on the 2024 model.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDGAe8DOmck

 

[docboy]

Joining this thread late, but I'd definitely not rush into this decision and wait for an opportunity to check out a new Land Cruiser. I'm kind of drooling over the GX550 Overtrail+ currently and the only negative I really see with it is the fuel economy (which is not much better than a 4Runner). At least it has a modern powertrain in it though.

The LC seems like it is going to be several months behind the GX likely, but it could end up fitting your needs a lot better (while also getting 25+ mpg due to the hybrid system). They're going to be painful to get your hands on initially for sure though, so it all comes down to how much time you can wait I think.

I saw some videos of the GX550 last night and this morning, automotive press just go there hands on them in Arizona; looks awesome, modern interior, very well designed, built in Tahara, Japan, etc. Very droll worthy. Agreed fuel economy only a few more mpg than 4R. That and the price, $70-75k easily...

Not sure when the GX550 is coming out here in the states, looking like possibly April 2024? No news on the 2024 LC either. GX550 will probably be easier to get than the LC due to price.

I don't know, all confused now LOL. I going to have to check out the HiHy and GHHy again.

 

[trainman605]

Were at a time for both Lexus and Toyota that several new models will be hitting the market in 2024. These are going to be much higher in price than their models at this time are, which I know price does not affect all, but it will for some. Like all new models there is going to be a time for dealers to get these new units and I feel they will be holding the MSRP up and in some cases they might even add a dealer addon price because of high demand for these unit, who knows. Plus I'm not really that keen on buying a first year out model, I'd rather give it a year, or so, it's like the new Tundra's and Sequioa's, they have had their problems. So you will have to decide for yourself on what will work for you, and as we all know Toyota's are giving very good discounts on there 2024 vehicles, my TRD OFF ROAD had a list price of $54,000 MSRP and the dealer was giving $3300 off of MSRP, I felt that was a good deal.

 

[68camaro]

Highway driving

New Member here, 1st post......looking to replace 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition with 2024 4Runner TRD Off Road.

My biggest question is long range highway driving, will the 4runner TRD get bothersome at highway speeds for up to 6 - 10 hours? Would a different model be better? or best to look at another vehicle.

I went to dealer today to get on Land Cruiser wait list but they est. wait at 18 months.....yikes

Thanks

 

[alextop]

I also personally think the 4Runner as a daily commute car can be a bit stiff but I love it for off-road fun and as you pointed out, the MPG can be a lot better. I ended up going with a Silverado 1500 since it provides extra utility a SUV can't offer and I already have a SUV, more comfortable ride (in my opinion), and much better gas mileage 23/29.

 

[docboy]

Were at a time for both Lexus and Toyota that several new models will be hitting the market in 2024. These are going to be much higher in price than their models at this time are, which I know price does not affect all, but it will for some. Like all new models there is going to be a time for dealers to get these new units and I feel they will be holding the MSRP up and in some cases they might even add a dealer addon price because of high demand for these unit, who knows. Plus I'm not really that keen on buying a first year out model, I'd rather give it a year, or so, it's like the new Tundra's and Sequioa's, they have had their problems. So you will have to decide for yourself on what will work for you, and as we all know Toyota's are giving very good discounts on there 2024 vehicles, my TRD OFF ROAD had a list price of $54,000 MSRP and the dealer was giving $3300 off of MSRP, I felt that was a good deal.

$3300 off MSRP is a good deal and good buy. Definitely can't go run with the 4Runner, well built and very reliable.

New Member here, 1st post......looking to replace 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition with 2024 4Runner TRD Off Road.

My biggest question is long range highway driving, will the 4runner TRD get bothersome at highway speeds for up to 6 - 10 hours? Would a different model be better? or best to look at another vehicle.

I went to dealer today to get on Land Cruiser wait list but they est. wait at 18 months.....yikes

Thanks

I look forward to hearing what others say about driving the 4R for lengthy periods. A few posts have suggested the 4Runner's seats are not very comfortable long term, hopefully others will chime in.

18 months wait list for the new Land Cruiser??? Is that at MSRP or with dealer add-ons? That's too long of a wait. Sheesh. Did you hear when the LC will be released? May have to entertain paying extra and go for the GX550 if one can't wait that long.

 

[trainman605]

I just got my 2024 TRD Off Road Premium last week and I have only put around 100 miles on it at 70 MPH, from what I felt driving it I feel it is going to be a very good vehicle for highway driving. I'm 6'1" and weight 225 and the vehicle does offer me all the room and comfort in the vehicle I need, plus has more leg room then I need and I did adjust the seat to where it was comfortable for me. I think if I were you I would get the Premium Package, it comes with several options that you will probably like and it does feel it has some luxury to it. My wife drives a new Lexas RX 350 and she thought the 4 Runner drove much better then she thought it would and said, she liked it. For me my wife is eying the Lexus GX550 for her next vehicle in two years or so, by then the price should have some discounts and all the bugs worked by then.

 

[68camaro]

I look forward to hearing what others say about driving the 4R for lengthy periods. A few posts have suggested the 4Runner's seats are not very comfortable long term, hopefully others will chime in.

18 months wait list for the new Land Cruiser??? Is that at MSRP or with dealer add-ons? That's too long of a wait. Sheesh. Did you hear when the LC will be released? May have to entertain paying extra and go for the GX550 if one can't wait that long.

The Off-Road I test rode had the KDSS and while I didn't drive far it seemed fine on highway for short drive.

The 18 mo. wait on LC at dealer they say is because they do not charge any dealer markups or market adjustments, just MSRP, Also, they are only expecting 2 a month once they start getting deliveries, Maybe March????.

If I get the 4Runner I am going to try to negotiate higher spot on LC waitlist....not sure their response but I could see trading 4Runner in for LC in future.

 

[DAW89446]

It appears that the OP has done a lot of homework.

For me, value, practicality, reliability, are primary. I live in a remote location, travel over miles of dirt roads in fair weather, rain, snow and ice. I own acreage. I'm also a senior citizen.

When I bought my '18 SR5 used in '19, I gave my grandson my trusty, reliable '02 Tacoma TRD extra cab. I'm getting banged up, bad knees were screaming with every use of the clutch, our two small dogs were fighting for real estate on my disabled wife's lap, I didn't do as much real off roading like I used to. The bed was perpetually empty because I couldn't crawl in there on my knees any longer, a camper shell made large items clumsy to load. I used my utility trailer for cargo.

I still needed a truck, but wanted to switch to an SUV. I knew that only another Toyota would provide the same value, practicality and reliability. I already had (and still do) a '12 Subaru Outback, so I didn't need another car based SUV, I needed a truck underneath that SUV body. I knew only the 4Runner would fit my needs.

I have no regrets buying my 4Runner. I use it like a truck on my acreage. It rides acceptably well, even with load range E BFG All Terrain T/As. It's quieter than my Subaru, rides a bit better. Quality materials in the cabin have stood up well. Never have experienced any real issues on long trips.

So, in my opinion, if one lives in the city, doesn't off road, wants the practicality of an SUV, needs or wants AWD, by all means get a RAV4 or Highlander. If you want the best of both worlds of an SUV and a truck, get a 4Runner.

 

[AZ Craig]

New Member here, 1st post......looking to replace 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland edition with 2024 4Runner TRD Off Road.

My biggest question is long range highway driving, will the 4runner TRD get bothersome at highway speeds for up to 6 - 10 hours? Would a different model be better? or best to look at another vehicle.

I went to dealer today to get on Land Cruiser wait list but they est. wait at 18 months.....yikes

So I've done a lot of long distance drives in a 4Runner including two cross country (and back) runs; one in my 2016 and one in my 2020. I find them to be reasonably comfortable for long distance driving, but the combination of miserable fuel economy in conjunction with the dated powertrain definitely can be bothersome at times.

Have you thought about just going unibody? Do you need the offroad and/or ruggedness advantages of a body on frame vehicle? Honestly, the current Jeep Grand Cherokee is a beautiful car and way more comfortable for highway driving than the 4Runner; main concern there would be longevity and reliability.

 

[John in NC]

My wife's 2014 Highlander is far superior to my 4Runner in almost every way, the only category the 4Runner wins in is that it's cooler looking ��

Edit- the poster mentioned wanting something good for long highway drives. The Highlander hands down beats the 4runner in that category. We have both vehicles. Heck 10 minute commute to the school drop off line the highlander is better, but the 4runner is cooler.

 

[trainman605]

My wife's 2014 Highlander is far superior to my 4Runner in almost every way, the only category the 4Runner wins in is that it's cooler looking ��

There are always vehicles that are superior to other vehicles, my wife's Lexus is superior to the Highlander I think, but what I think is only my opinion. I just got my new 4 Runner and I really don't compare it to many other vehicles as I think it in a league all of its own. I think for me the 4 Runner is a guy vehicle in most cases, yes I know several ladies that drive 4 Runners and it's there go to vehicle, they love them. If you expect your 4 Runner to ride, drive, and get good fuel mileage then your looking at the wrong vehicle. I see the 4 Runner sold some 150,000 units in 2023, I would say someone must like them and are not looking at the fuel mileage, ride, and drive as there number one reason for buying one.