Will I be getting in over my head?

[jimmy2x]

As a little background, I am 61, have never owned any type of SUV and am seriously considering a 4Runner purchase at the end of 2008 as a retirement/traveling vehicle. My wife has a medical condition that still allows her to easily travel, but we have a significant amount of supplies that will have to go with us. Far more than a sedan would handle.

The following are reasons why the 4Runner (or at least the reasons I am using to convince myself : ).

1. Legendary reliablity. If we are really to get an SUV, this is the one.

2. Think it is absolutely the best looking SUV around. In fact, I borrowed one of the members photos of his new Salsa Red V8 Limited to use as my desktop image.

3. The ability to do at least some off-road travel. I do not kid myself that I would try to cross the Rubicon, but we really want to travel the West/Alaska and would like to get off the beaten path once in a while.

Questions:

1. How difficult is it to learn how to properly handle 4WD? I'd like to avoid making any more of an A** of myself than usual.

2. Being comfortable on a long drive is an issue (dicey back and the usual aches and pains that come from living long enough).

3. While we are certainly not wealthy the relative cost between the SE and the Limited is not really a determining factor. What would you all suggest?

4. With other vehicles (MDX, etc.) I suspect that even mild off-roading would be shakey at best and stupid at worst. Concur?

5. Do you think I'm nuts to even consider this? Have to say that I'm one of the least mechanical people I know and I need something that is not going to leave us stranded out in the middle of nowhere.

Thanks,
Jim in SE PA

 

[josh220]

1. 4WD is pretty easy. Just put your truck into neutral, and turn the knob to "4LO" and put it back in drive. Then to take it out, again go into neutral, and turn the knob back to "4HI". The 4runner handles so well that unless you are getting into some serious conditions, I doubt you will need it much, especially if your wife has any type of health conditions.

2. Some older friends of mine have Honda's, Mitsubishi's, etc. They all have to roll up a sweater, or put a cushion on the seat to support their lower back because the seat doesn't form well to the shapes of a person. The 4runner doesn't have this problem, it has enough mobility in the seat controls to make you comfortable.

3. It depends on if you want leather interior to be standard. The Sport Editions have Xreas suspensions standard, which will most likely help give you a more comfortable ride for you and your wife.

4. I agree with what you said, and like I mentioned above, the Xreas suspension will help with that. It will handle like a dream in any conditions you throw at it.

5. Toyota's are some of the best made vehicles around. Many people see over 300k and even 400k miles. I think most people on here will agree that if you buy a new 4runner, you won't have any problems with it until wayyyyyy down the road.

 

[The Wanderer]

jimmy2x

The only complaint I have is the seats are not all that comfortable. If you do a search you can see many owners on this site have the same complaint. I bring this up because of your wife. The leather seats in my opinion are more comfortable than the vinyl seats.The Runner drives great and rides more car like than other trucks. I suggest you go to the dealer and take a ride. The 4 Runner is a terrific vehicle and has the Toyota dependability.

 

[ALt4r]

1. Easy don't worry about it.
2. If this is your first SUV/Truck i suggest you test drive it (obviously), if you haven't already. The ride is definitely different from a sedan, but pretty smooth compared to other SUVs.
3. I would try out both the limited and the sport edition. If pricing isn't an issue i would spring for the limited, but see if the price increase is worth the extras to you. Xreas suspension would be a must if you are going for the best ride.
Let us know how the purchase goes and if you are happy with the ride quality you wont be dissapointed.
5. Given Toyota's history i think you will have a reliable vehicle.

Let us know how it goes!

 

[josh220]

And to add to my first post, don't get the Sport just because of the Xreas suspension, it comes optional on a limited. So if you get a limited, just make sure you have them put the Xreas Suspension on. It will help the ride comfort tremendously.

 

[Falls]

You may think I'm nuts , but I did this with a Jeep I was considering . Since you'll be using it for long trips and such and comfort and capacity is a factor I would suggest you rent one and take a trip. It will cost a few bucks but in my opinion much better than spending $30-$40k on something you don't like or is not comfortable for you.

I have an 06 Sport with Xreas suspension and a V8 and the V8 comes with full time four wheel drive , but has a center differential lock and 4lo just like any 4wd . I love driving it . Granted does it have pro's and con's ? Yes just like anything.

 

[kimboy]

Drive in RWD 98% of the time.
Change it if the weather is inclimate.

Make sure you get the Michelin's as OEM tires.
Side Impact Airbags will be a must on my next 4runner.

Understand that your wife will need to use the running boards. The sports have tublar running boards if I'm mistaken.
The limited has lighted running boards.

Go with the leather for comfort. Get the Cloth if that's your preference.

2.Depends on how tall you are, and how boney your Ass is. I lost 30lbs. and most of my cushioning is gone

 

[JB.]

..considering a 4Runner purchase at the end of 2008..

You say at the end of 2008. Kind of early, but one thing I'll point out is that the 4Runner is due for a new generation release. Probably 2010 model year but there's a slight chance it could be 2009 which would be available when you're ready to buy. If the model year is 2010, as is probable, it could be available as early as when guys, late summer 2009 or so? Anyway, maybe something to think about.

 

[jimmy2x]

Wow - some really great replies. I really appreciate you taking the time.

Josh 220 - Fortunately Xreas is one of the standard options in this area for the Limited, and one that I would certainly choose.

Josh 220, the Wanderer & Alt4 - just goes to show that seat comfort is a variable depending on the butt that wil be in it. We did actually sit in one a couple of months ago and found it (Limited) to be very comfortable although I did note that my head felt very close to the roof. If I could get one without the sunroof, I would but from all indications it would have to be a special order. Am sure that I will get used to it as am only 5'11" tall.

Falls - renting is certainly something that I have looked into. I asked my local dealer about it and he told me that they would have no problem with me taking it on our own for the day.

Kimboy - I believe that you are correct about the running board vs. the tube. Are you saying that you feel that the running board may be safer? BTW, a bony A** is something that I'm not troubled with .

A couple of other questions for those that have or are familier with the Limited.

1. Are the backs of the seats heated or just the seat and is there more than one setting?

2. Are there any other features on the Limited that may help justify spending the extra cash?

3. Is the JBL setup worth it?

4. We could care less about Bluetooth since I won't have to take anymore business calls <G> . This makes the price for the NAV system really expensive. Your thoughts?

To all - I don't need to buy until the end of '08 as that is when my company Taurus will go away . I am planning to buy probably in August as that is when there should be decent pricing and still a good selection. Hope this is a good strategy.

Jim

 

[jimmy2x]

Re: Re: Will I be getting in over my head?

You say at the end of 2008. Kind of early, but one thing I'll point out is that the 4Runner is due for a new generation release. Probably 2010 model year but there's a slight chance it could be 2009 which would be available when you're ready to buy. If the model year is 2010, as is probable, it could be available as early as when guys, late summer 2009 or so? Anyway, maybe something to think about.

Point well taken but I am very hesitent to buy the 1st model year of ANY manufacturer. Seems to take awhile for a few problems to shake out.

Jim

 

[jimmy2x]

Make sure you get the Michelin's as OEM tires.

Are you saying that I can specify the Michelin's?

 

[alaskaman]

First.........if you are tall the 4Runner may not be your best bet. If not the seats are very nice, supportive with a good lumbar support. I have made several trips and enjoy the seats......lots of options....to help a driver shift positions.

 

[ALt4r]

1. Are the backs of the seats heated or just the seat and is there more than one setting?

2. Are there any other features on the Limited that may help justify spending the extra cash?

3. Is the JBL setup worth it?

4. We could care less about Bluetooth since I won't have to take anymore business calls <G> . This makes the price for the NAV system really expensive. Your thoughts?

To all - I don't need to buy until the end of '08 as that is when my company Taurus will go away . I am planning to buy probably in August as that is when there should be decent pricing and still a good selection. Hope this is a good strategy.

Jim

1. Someone tell me if i'm wrong but i think only the seat is heated. I don't know for sure though i'm talking about an 03 limited...

2.
You will get 18" wheels standard

The exterior will have tiny differences
(not sure about the 08-09 model) to denote the Limited Trim.

Heated mirrors. AC power inverter, a lot of leather trimmed stuff. dualzone climate control.

6Disc CD changer, i hate digging around ejecting cds and popping them back in.
A lot of little things that just make it feel better.
IMPORTANT: some of this info i'm taking from the 03 limiteds, but little probably changed over the years. Your best bet is to test the sport and limited trim yourself for that model year(if that's what your set on).

3. JBL audio is definitely a nice stock audio set up. Is the price worth it? I would say you can get much better set-ups for the money, but unless you can install it yourself, it won't look OEM and may cost more for professional installation. JBL is fine for most people.

4. You can do a search on the forums about the nav system. It definitely looks nice, but most would agree it's a bit expensive (as all these integrated in-car systems are). I would just go for one of those 4 inch widescreens that plugs into the cig lighter, but thats just me. But then you kind of lose the wow factor. I haven't had much experience with the NAV system in a 4runner but how much better is it than those "portable" ones?


***All standard equip on all trim models HERE for you to compare the Limited Trim's advantages. This is the 08 4runner.
Courtesy of top4runners.com


What color are you guys looking to get?

 

[Falls]

I am 6'1" and 185 , I'm comfortable. Sure I could always be more comfortable if it was bigger and wider like a Sequoia. But I'm sure the 5th gen will be bigger and wider following the trend of the Rav , Highlander , Tundra , Tacoma , ect....

 

[4Runnin Eddie]

Not sure if anyone covered this but "Will you or your wife be able to climb into and out the 4Runner for the years to come ? since it is a little higher then a regualr sedan.
Best of luck

 

[snhrph]

A couple of other questions for those that have or are familier with the Limited.

1. Are the backs of the seats heated or just the seat and is there more than one setting?

2. Are there any other features on the Limited that may help justify spending the extra cash?

3. Is the JBL setup worth it?

4. We could care less about Bluetooth since I won't have to take anymore business calls <G> . This makes the price for the NAV system really expensive. Your thoughts?

To all - I don't need to buy until the end of '08 as that is when my company Taurus will go away . I am planning to buy probably in August as that is when there should be decent pricing and still a good selection. Hope this is a good strategy.

Jim

Since you are looking at either Sport or Limited T4R, I would suggest also looking at Lexus GX470. I has all the features of Limited T4R and then some.

I would have to disagree with josh 220 about the XREAS suspension - while it improves the on-pavement handling of the truck, it also contributes to the harder, less comfortable ride. Also, it is not useful for off-roading.

Can't answer your questions with regards to Limited, but GX470 has heated seatbacks and you can set the heat as you like it. The seats are comfortable for the long haul. Great amount of storage space too - traveled to Canada last summer with my wife and my son, camping gear and supplies for 1 week and 2 sets of scuba gear including tanks (that takes up a LOT of space).

Navigation in my opinion is not worth the extra dollars. You can get a great portable navigation unit for a fraction of that amount.

Not sure about the JBL sound system, but unless you are an audiophile the stock system on either truck will be enough.

Good luck.

 

[josh220]

I would have to disagree with josh 220 about the XREAS suspension - while it improves the on-pavement handling of the truck, it also contributes to the harder, less comfortable ride. Also, it is not useful for off-roading.

It's a Shock Absorber system though, so overall it's beneficial IMO. A simple system, it links the shock absorbers diagonally through hydraulic lines (e.g., the front left shock is linked to the rear right shock). A central control damper helps keep the system in balance.

"X-REAS, which is standard on the Sport and optional on the Limited, improves handling dynamics on the road with no compromise in off-road articulation or travel. X-REAS reduces the tendency of the vehicle to bob up and down in corners and improves handling by damping body pitch and roll. We compared 4Runners with and without the system and it really works, improving stability when driving hard through a 50-mph sweeping turn."

And from a post by Thai-
"Sport-trimmed 4Runners ride on a Yamaha-developed X-REAS suspension. Also available on the Limited, X-REAS is designed to improve on-road handling via a diagonally linked setup with increased vertical damping. Rear air suspension is optional on V8 trucks. "

"It works stupendously well without compromising the supple ride or hampering off-road ability. "

Your experiences are all your own opinion snhrph. And although you say it doesn't help offroad performance, it doesn't hurt it either, making it more beneficial than normal suspension.

 

[JB.]

It's a Shock Absorber system though, so overall it's beneficial IMO. A simple system, it links the shock absorbers diagonally through hydraulic lines (e.g., the front left shock is linked to the rear right shock). A central control damper helps keep the system in balance.

"X-REAS, which is standard on the Sport and optional on the Limited, improves handling dynamics on the road with no compromise in off-road articulation or travel. X-REAS reduces the tendency of the vehicle to bob up and down in corners and improves handling by damping body pitch and roll. We compared 4Runners with and without the system and it really works, improving stability when driving hard through a 50-mph sweeping turn."

And from a post by Thai-
"Sport-trimmed 4Runners ride on a Yamaha-developed X-REAS suspension. Also available on the Limited, X-REAS is designed to improve on-road handling via a diagonally linked setup with increased vertical damping. Rear air suspension is optional on V8 trucks. "

"It works stupendously well without compromising the supple ride or hampering off-road ability. "

Your experiences are all your own opinion snhrph. And although you say it doesn't help offroad performance, it doesn't hurt it either, making it more beneficial than normal suspension.

:iagree:

And it actually helps off-road in one respect. It helps resist bottoming out.

 

[josh220]

:iagree:

And it actually helps off-road in one respect. It helps resist bottoming out.

Yes that's true. Also, if you are "off road" on a dirt road that is grated and smooth, you are tempted to go faster. If it takes an unexpected turn, it will help the pitch and roll to help you stay in control.

 

[Jaebster]

Wow - some really great replies. I really appreciate you taking the time.

Josh 220 - Fortunately Xreas is one of the standard options in this area for the Limited, and one that I would certainly choose.

Josh 220, the Wanderer & Alt4 - just goes to show that seat comfort is a variable depending on the butt that wil be in it. We did actually sit in one a couple of months ago and found it (Limited) to be very comfortable although I did note that my head felt very close to the roof. If I could get one without the sunroof, I would but from all indications it would have to be a special order. Am sure that I will get used to it as am only 5'11" tall.

Falls - renting is certainly something that I have looked into. I asked my local dealer about it and he told me that they would have no problem with me taking it on our own for the day.

Kimboy - I believe that you are correct about the running board vs. the tube. Are you saying that you feel that the running board may be safer? BTW, a bony A** is something that I'm not troubled with .

A couple of other questions for those that have or are familier with the Limited.

1. Are the backs of the seats heated or just the seat and is there more than one setting?

2. Are there any other features on the Limited that may help justify spending the extra cash?

3. Is the JBL setup worth it?

4. We could care less about Bluetooth since I won't have to take anymore business calls <G> . This makes the price for the NAV system really expensive. Your thoughts?

To all - I don't need to buy until the end of '08 as that is when my company Taurus will go away . I am planning to buy probably in August as that is when there should be decent pricing and still a good selection. Hope this is a good strategy.

Jim

Along with what others said...
1. Only the seat has heat. Also, there is about 4 heat seating if I remember correctly.

2. ... limited has auto dimming rear view mirror and 115V AC outlet as standard equip. These features are great for traveling.
Also, limited has dual climate control.
Auto on/off headlights on limited for those forgetful people or those that are just too lazy (Me, I'm both forgetful and lazy. haha)

3.

4. The bluetooth will definitely come in handy in the future as state lawx are leaning towards limiting use of cellphones while driving unless they are on a "handsfree" set. Of course you can get a bluetooth earpiece for your phone to achieve this too. However, the 4R bluetooth is voice activated and with simple button presses on the steering wheel, you can make calls and talk through the 4R speakerphone. Oh, AND The back up camera integrated to the Nav system is awesome. Helps with backing up in tight spots.