Ok so here is the issue, I currently own a 1794 Tundra and LOVE the truck, but have always wanted a 4-Runner. I really like the TRD-Pro. I will readily admit that I am a huge fan of the Inferno color, but what I am trying to figure out is whether or not the TRD Pro package is really more capable? From what I have found on specs it has the same ground clearance as all other models and the same 4x4 system as the Trail edition. So what I am looking for is advice or personal experience as to how capable the TRD Pro really is and whether or not it needs any upgrades on armor or other things for the occasional moderate to semi-aggressive trails with rock obstacles and such. The big internal debate that I am having is should I spend the extra thousand on a TRD Pro or get a Trail Premium? Any insight is appreciated!
Should I, should I not???
- Thread starter Matt2558
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wfo9
New member
This is an easy one. The pro is all about looks, nothing really there in terms of added off-road capability. Maybe a little something extra off the showroom floor, but it's more designed to be a desert truck. A slightly modified trail will stroll right past it off-road. You could also modify the pro to do the same thing, but you would have already spent that extra cash on the emblems..... Not slamming the pro, its a nice truck, but overpriced IMHO.
Your best bet is.
Get a trail with KDSS.
Add a budget lift (toyotec, OME...), 33" AT tires, sliders, and maybe some aftermarket armor if you plan to push it.
If you think you might want to get really extreme at some point, skip the KDSS and opt for not running sway bars at all.
BTW, I did not know they made Tundras in 1794 ;-)
Your best bet is.
Get a trail with KDSS.
Add a budget lift (toyotec, OME...), 33" AT tires, sliders, and maybe some aftermarket armor if you plan to push it.
If you think you might want to get really extreme at some point, skip the KDSS and opt for not running sway bars at all.
BTW, I did not know they made Tundras in 1794 ;-)
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That is my eternal struggle with this truck. I figured the TRD Pro was more looks and thats the problem, I love the inferno color and the appearance of the TRD Pro, but I know good and well that 9.6 inches of ground clearance isn't enough for moderate to semi aggressive trails without full armor underneath. If they made a trail in inferno you are right, this would be an easy one if they made a trial in inferno....hahaha
wfo9
New member
Get what you want then. It's only money! Just know what you are paying for. It's not going to have the power of your Tundra.... Don't expect to tow anything heavy...
Two other things to consider.
1. That color will probably demand a premium over others due to demand.
2. If you are going to really offroad, white is the best color to hide the inevitable pinstripes.
I was looking for white but ended up with gray. I like it but it shows every scratch.
The inferno would be pretty awesome looking all built up with the black wheels....
Two other things to consider.
1. That color will probably demand a premium over others due to demand.
2. If you are going to really offroad, white is the best color to hide the inevitable pinstripes.
I was looking for white but ended up with gray. I like it but it shows every scratch.
The inferno would be pretty awesome looking all built up with the black wheels....
Yeah thats my other concern is would I be able to tow my Sportsman, Ranger, and Zero turn mower on a trailer if needed. I love the power of the Tundra but that being said I am aware of the power loss I would have in the 4-runner. I wouldn't need to tow them all at once obviously, but was wondering if the 4-runner can pull around 3,500 pounds without too much struggle?
The Runner is obviously not the best towing vehicle out there, but it is more than up to the task of pulling 3,500 lbs.
Lots of 4Runners happily pulling 5,000 lb. trailers!
You should consider a weight distributing hitch, and maybe air bags or heavier springs in the back if you tow often. Of course, the trailer itself should have brakes.
Lots of 4Runners happily pulling 5,000 lb. trailers!
You should consider a weight distributing hitch, and maybe air bags or heavier springs in the back if you tow often. Of course, the trailer itself should have brakes.
3wbdriver
New member
I traded in my Tundra TSS 2wd for a 2014 basic Trail back in January. I have spent roughly $5,000 for assorted upgrades (suspension, wheels/tires, sliders, rack) since then and had it off road on up to class 3 trails with no real problems. I do still intend to do at least some partial skid upgrades and possibly a rear bumper. But I haven't looked back. I really like the look of the TRD Pro, but if I had it to do over again I think I would still have gone the same route. Obviously the choice is yours, but I thought you might like to hear from someone who did the same type of upgrade.
meRockboost
New member
You can always get the trd pro and sell the suspension and the wheels/tires to recoup the cost you spent to get it.
Very helpful, thank you so much.
3wbdriver
New member
I already made my "look", thank you very much! For a lot less than $700 too! Lol :becky:
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So speaking of color I went to a local dealership today and looked at the TRD Pro they got in and I looked it over really well. I came to this conclusion; in my opinion it is a orange trail premium with reservoir shocks, skid plate, badging, wheels and tires. Apparently people are paying anywhere from 3-5,000 over sticker price and that is where I immediately got off the Pro train. I am now looking at a white Trail Premium with KDSS and I am trying to figure out what exactly the KDSS does because in some information I have gotten it almost sounds like it limits suspension travel off road. I will almost immediately lift the 4-runner three inches with new suspension so thats why understanding KDSS is so important to me.
cjacob316
New member
Yes the TRDPro is the trail premium minus the sunroof.
KDSS is supposed to improve articulation over standard sway bars
3wbdriver
New member
I'm at work so I can't go to youtube. There is a really good video on there explaining how KDSS works. But you'll have to search it since I can't. Just look up something like "Toyota 4runner KDSS". And I know where you can order the TRD Pro emblems if you just want the "look". But I do think the KDSS may start being a little "stretched" at 3" of lift. If you plan on that much lift you may just want to go without it.
Alright awesome I will look that up tonight. In the meantime I am going to call Toytec tomorrow and ask them about lift issues since they are showing a kit that fits KDSS models. I just want to make sure that it doesn't remove it. Thanks again.
bimrunner
New member
If you ever want to go long travel in the back or front don't get KDSS as you would have to rip it out. Just throwing it out there. Lots of us with LT don't run any sway bars at all or use quick disconnects (which don't work for KDSS). Knowing what you want to do before you buy will save you tons of $, time and frustration in the future. Toytec doesn't do LT though. Metal Tech is where most of us get that kit.
