Tacoma or 4Runner?

[camarofanman]

First of all, I am new so let me say hello to everyone, and thank you for all the great information on this site. I posted the same topic at TTORA and got some good feedback, but most of it was about the Tacoma, and I think I am leaning more towards a 4runner.

Basically, I currently own a chevy 2500HD 6.0L 4x4, crew cab long bed. 8mpg city, 11 highway driving with an egg under it. Dealer looked at it, said thats all I am going to get out of a Crew long bed. Now, I dont need a truck like this anymore, I dont tow anymore or anything. All I use my truck for now is as follows:

Most the time it is just commuting to work on normal roads, 60 highway 40 city. Truck is also used on weekends when my friends and myself go out, I usually DD since I cant drink anyway (long story).

Couple times a year my truck is driving to a property my family owns about 300 miles away, and does see some moderate off roading in some west virginia red clay. Minor mud holes, minor creek fording (3-4inch high water, no biggy) and some moderate hill climbs that suburbans have taken no biggy.

Truck is used a good bit in summer to camp with, and commute to said camp since Maryland has NOTHING to do outdoors related other than hike...

Few times a year I go deer hunting, but I figured the roof or hood will do for that task..

anywho, as such I have concluded that I DEFFINATLY dont need a 3/4 ton, especially since this MPG is killing my wallet, and I really dont need a pick up in general anymore other than the looks and nastalgia of them. So, this is where the 4runner comes in.

My question is, will a 4runner handle what I need it to do? I am a chevy guy, dont know much about toyotas, but I am impressed with them, and well we all know GMs in trouble.. just doesnt have what I need period..

I will be looking at 99-02 range, possibly some 03/04s but I doubt it. What should I be looking for in these models? What is the difference in Sport, Limited, Sr5 etc? I was told that the 4x4 models are all time 4x4 with a manual 4hi/4lo lever, is this correct? Isnt gas mileage effected not being able to release the front shaft?

Thank you all for your time, anxiously awaiting answers

 

[GatorGreg]

Welcome to T4R.ORG. Here's a good link that will explain the evolutionary changes of the 4Runner: http://www.top4runners.com/ja/runhist2.html

Basically '02 was the last year of the 3rd gen and '03 was the 1st year of the 4th gen. If you don't mind being limited to a 5,000 lb tow rating and you want to use the least amount of fuel then a 4th gen V6 4x4 or a 3rd gen V6 4x4 would be what I'd recommend for your needs. If you need more power and towing capability at the expense of a little more money and fuel, then try a 4th gen V8 4x4. Remember that the '00 3rd gen was the last year before all the electronic nannies (ATRAC and VSC) became std on 4x4 4Runners. '00 was also the last year for the optional rear diffy locker on 4x4 models, although a 4x4 '00 without the optional rear diffy locker should be able to handle what you described with no problems.

Your comment about being told that all 4x4 4Runners are fulltime 4WD is not entirely true. Yes, all 4th gen V8 4x4 4Runners are always in 4x4, with ability to switch from 4x4 Hi to 4x4 Lo. However, the 4th gen V6 4x4 4Runners as well as the 3rd gen 4x4 4Riunners are part time 4WD, meaning you can be in 2WD (rear wheels) and then switch from 2WD Hi to 4WD Hi, and then into 4WD Lo if need be. Another thing to watch for is all 4x4 4Runners starting in '01 got a "multi-mode" 4WD system, whereas only the Limited 4x4 models got this "multi-mode" feature beginning in I think '99? Basically the "multi-mode" 4WD system allows you to drive on dry/non slippery conditions in 4WD Hi. The earlier 4x4 4Runners without "multi-mode" should only use the 4x4 mode when on wet/slippery or off-road conditions.

Good luck in your search.

 

[Mark86]

Another major difference between the 3rd gen and 4th gen 4Runners is some 3rd gens have a rear locking differential and the 4th gen 4Runner's only have a locking center differential. If you plan on doing heavy offroading, the 3rd gens may be a better option for you.

 

[RonMAIDEN]

I went through the Tacoma vs 4Runner thing too when I was getting rid of my sports car and it boiled down to needing more people room than need for a bed and I definetly made the rigth choice and a Runner is great fro camping with two people since you can sleep in the back.

 

[camarofanman]

Perfect RonMaiden, thank you. I was leaning towards the 4runner in every aspect except the camping part, and when I do go camping it is never more than my GF and myself in the same tent/truck..

Can someone expain the Sport/Limited/SR5 stuff to me real quick please? Also, will a newer 4runner, say 01/02/03 with all the "electronic doodads" still perform the way I need it to off the beaten trail, or am I limited to the higher mileage 00s?

Thanks guys

 

[toto]

I don't know how the Sport/Limited/SR5 models breakdown on the 3rd Gen 4Runner, so I'll make a general statement rather than focus on specific options.

Toyota trucks generally have 4 trim levels: Base, SR5, Sport, and Limited. As you can imagine, Base is pretty plain, and there is no such thing for the current 4Runner. SR5 is a notch up from Base, adding a number of the most common "must-have" options as standard equipment. Sport usuallly picks up a couple of things that would be an option on an SR5, plus some more unique things, like suspension changes or cosmetic accessories, that may not be available on any other trim level. The Limited is the top-of-the-line for interior features, with leather seats and all of the electronic gadgets. Some things that are options on the SR5 or Sport are standard on the Limited.

Other trucks, like the Tacoma, but not the 4Runner, offer a "TRD Off-Road Package" as well, which includes suspension and drivetrain parts especially designed for off-roading.

On the 4Runner, the trim level is completely separate from the engine size or 2WD vs. 4WD. You can get any trim level with either engine and with/without 4WD.

 

[dingo]

Can someone expain the Sport/Limited/SR5 stuff to me real quick please? Also, will a newer 4runner, say 01/02/03 with all the "electronic doodads" still perform the way I need it to off the beaten trail, or am I limited to the higher mileage 00s?

In a nutshell they are the three available trim/grades which have differentiating features within their own respectable levels, along with respective price. Each trim level is also available in either 2WD or 4WD with V6 or V8 engine. (I'm sure others will have more in depth info for you)

SR5
-"base" or starting point model (but by no means less capable than the other two) I think toto described it best.
-available 3rd row seats
-black sideview mirrors (non-heated)
-XREAS not available

Sport Edition
-XREAS suspension standard (shocks are cross linked hydraulically left front to right rear & right front to left rear, lessens roll and pitch during cornering)
-hoodscoop
-larger front disc rotors
-graphite tube steps and roof racks
-color matched HEATED sideview mirrors
-unique SE rims

Limited
-more amenities than SE
-available touchscreen NAV head unit as an option (how I envy those guys who have it)
-XREAS and rear air suspension available
-leather everything
-color matched HEATED sideview mirrors
-double decker cargo shelf
-unique 18" Limited rims
-available heated seats
-dual climate control
-bluetooth
-available 3rd row seats

I'm sure there is more and some options can be specially ordered on some of the trims. All the electronic nannies will still function offroad. The 4WD models can lock the center diff and that will turn off the Vehicle Skid Control so you can do donuts. In addition to VSC, there are also anti-lock brakes, traction control, uphill assist, downhill assist, electronic brake distribution, and brake assist. Don't know about the 2WD models though, I'm sure there is a small difference. If you plan to lift, the XREAS may or may not be a limiting factor depending on the type of lift. Plenty of threads on that one. Someone please correct me if I'm wrong.

At any rate, you can't go wrong with any of them. Only difference left is really the color. Darker colored 4runners are faster than lighter ones since the surrounding air over the darker paint heats up the surrounding air at a higher temperature making it less dense. Allows for faster travel. I have proof. (ok, no I don't but it worked for the sr-71 blackbird so why not?) :bonk:

 

[camarofanman]

LoL ok thanks everyone. How are the seats? Any difference between them other than the materials? What does everyone perfer? I generally perfer leather on a car, cloth on a truck, but again I grew up on GM pleather seats....

I dont think 3rd gens have the oil shock things (XREAMS J RUE SHA SD thing =P ) so as long as I am correct about that, I think I will be ok with any trim level. Too bad you cant get them in a stick shift

All I really want is power windows locks etc. A/C, CD player (single is fine) 4x4 and I would really like a sun roof but its not nesessary. Oh and that rear spoiler looks pretty niftty on these 3rd gens. what trim level will give me what I want without havent to worry about going to check them for options?

Thanks again guys, big help. Hopefully some construction worker or someone will pick up my 2500HD and I can find me a toyota

 

[camarofanman]

on more last update..

Talked to my father (used car manager for ford/porshe,audi, stealership has a lexus dealer too) and apparently according to him, 03-04 4Runner is where ill be looking. He said he just had an 02 that would have been perfect but its already sold. anyway, long story short, they get these things all day long, 03-04 is well in my price range (cheaper payments..) but 01-02 would be hard to find low miles and 05 would be hard to find in price range with the 5 spd auto. So.. Do you all think it would be more worth wild for me to wait for a low mile 01-02 to pop up, or will a 4th gen be more than adequete despite the 2" lower ground clearance.

 

[Lone Ranger]

I would get the 03 or 04 4x4, it should be fine for the uses you describe. An 04 Sport Edition sounds like a great fit if you can find one in your price range. It has the XRES and a bunch of off-road features. If you are not towing, the V6 should be sufficient.

 

[camarofanman]

ya I am not towing anymore, my number one concern is gas mileage, since I am only 21, but I do need something a little bit off the ground a few times a year. cant afford 2 cars, so I suppose 4runner fits the bill. I can technically afford 10mpg right now, but when gas rises in summer its gonna be too tight for me. 16 i think should be ok, 20 would be ideal, but i dont think theres a 4x4 in north america that gets 20mpg average.

 

[swimmer2361]

but i dont think theres a 4x4 in north america that gets 20mpg average.

Well I have calculated that my 2004 V6 4x4 gets about 20mpg. The computer tells me I am getting 23mpg, but I don't trust it.

 

[Tucson T4R]

Go for a 4th gen in the 04 range and you'll be a happy camper!:biggrin2:

I agree, the stock clearence is a little low. Plan on installing a about a 3" lift (I like the OME suspension) and your new 4Runner will do everything you want in total comfort and reliability. :bigok:

 

[Falls]

I agree the clearance is low , BUT not like a lot of SUV's in its class , its not bad at all and has not hindered me off road at all. A little lift would always be helpful off road and look s great.

As far as the locking diff's on the 4th gen , the center diff locks which I think is really helpful. The Axles in the front & rear have a system called Atrac , that applies slight brake pressure to get traction to both wheels in front and back. Although its no locker and wouldn't want it on the rock climbing circuit , it works kick ass in mud and snow , hills ect.....

Good luck on your search

 

[GatorGreg]

LoL ok thanks everyone. How are the seats? Any difference between them other than the materials? What does everyone perfer? I generally perfer leather on a car, cloth on a truck, but again I grew up on GM pleather seats....

I dont think 3rd gens have the oil shock things (XREAMS J RUE SHA SD thing =P ) so as long as I am correct about that, I think I will be ok with any trim level. Too bad you cant get them in a stick shift

All I really want is power windows locks etc. A/C, CD player (single is fine) 4x4 and I would really like a sun roof but its not nesessary. Oh and that rear spoiler looks pretty niftty on these 3rd gens. what trim level will give me what I want without havent to worry about going to check them for options?

Thanks again guys, big help. Hopefully some construction worker or someone will pick up my 2500HD and I can find me a toyota

If you want a stick shift then 2000 is the last year you could get that (I really like the 5spd stick in mine). The cloth seats in the Sport Edition 4Runners are generally considered a step up from the standard cloth seats in the SR5, and in some years the stepped up cloth seats would also come as part of an option package on SR5s (eg, they came on my SR5 in 2000 as part of option package #4). If you go to the link I posted earlier you can actually see the details on some of the option packages. If you can find one with a moonroof I think you'll really enjoy it - the moonroof on the 3rd gens is HUGE, makes me feel like I'm driving a Lexus

 

[camarofanman]

Thank you all for the advice, guess I should give a quick catch up post since its up top now. Looks like my price range will be 2004 4runners, MAYBE 05 since I know some wholesalers, but deffinatly newer than 03. I will be trying to find a V6 4x4 since I dont tow anymore, options dont really matter. I know the seats must be comfy because I do hours at a time very often, so I am looking sport/limited most likely. I would really like an outlet plug/inverter, but looks like that was only a higher end option, not standard, so no biggy. I am also considering a sunroof, but after all the problems people have been having on here with them, I am a little undecided...

Anyway, thats about where I am option wise, as far as making a decision on to buy or not... Still severly undecided. Looks like we switched to summer gas here in MD, my MPG just jumped to 11.5 from below 10s. I am going to test drive one this weekend, if I can find a used V6, but I really dont want to start looking for one wholesale yet. I just dont see it being worth wild to go through the trouble of selling my chevy and buying a 4runner if I am only going to be saving $50 bucks every 2 weeks under current driving conditions (pretty roughly based on 11.5 mpg chevy, and 17 or 18 mpg 4runner, cant remember which I used). Now if someone said they live in the NOVA/Maryland area.. on the outskirts of the city.. and get closer to or above 20 consistantly than I would sell my chevy in a heartbeat, but 30% is a little low for me. I would consider my driving 85% "Highway" and 15% "city". By "highway" I mean a mix of actual highway, and steady 45-55mph side roads with no or very little stoping for traffic signals, rarely droping to speeds at 35Mph or less cruising. By "City" I mean roughly 3-5% actual stop and go city (more traffic every once in awhile than anything else) and 10-12% of 1/4 mile at 45, than red light, another 1/4 - 1/2 mile than a redlight etc.

For the most part I usually get at or near rated highway mileage on most my GMs I have owned as a full tank average, but I am not gonna list my GM for sale unless I am extremly impressed with the 4runner when I go test drive one, or a few people from near my area can say that are getting 18..20 or better consistant average mpg on a tank.

Thanks agian guys

-Jason