Hey,
Just got back from the stealer a few hours ago from a test drive in the new 05 4runner Sport V8. I currently own a 2000 4runner limited.

First impressions, i'm not sure if it's just me; but the steering on the 4th generation has a rather light feel to it. Am i correct in assuming this? Maybe it's just me, I am used to the tight/heavy truck feeling on my 3rd generation. The 4th generation feels more refined as in, it's got a more car like feel to it when it comes to nimbleness. The V8 is also very powerful. However, once again i am used to the crisp acceleration of the 3.4 V6 that is in my current truck. The 4.7 V8 feels like it's very very powerful. You hit the gas and the thing just makes you feel like it wants to really go! (which is a good thing for most of us). Over bumps, the 4runner definately doesn't not really feel much like a truck anymore when you're driving on the road. Anyone agree with me on this?

I've also heard many good things about this truck while it's on the highway. However, i was unable to test this theory because the stealer wouldn't let me drive on the highway. (salesperson said liability issues). This was bad for me because this was my main buying/comparing point. What i am looking for is a good stable highway car. A car that when i'm driving, I will say "wow, this car is really stable and quiet on the highway". You know? One of those that you will be on the highway at 70mph and you dont even know you're up at 70mph.

Oh yea, one other thing that i wasn't too happy with was, i wanted a "homelink" garage door opener in my sport. The manager kept insisting "toyota will let you configure your truck anyway you like it on their website! But, that doesn't mean you can get it like that!". BS! Toyota just doesn't randomly distribute cars and trucks to dealerships. They can order a truck any way they like it as long as the configuration is available! I think he just wanted me to buy something that was on the lot! The homelink is a key feature for me too, since i have 2 garage doors. I hate having to clip 2 garage door openers on my visor.

All in all, i think Toyota did an excellent job on the 4th generation redesign. I guess there are just certain things that i need to get used to, like the lighter steering and the huge amount of "pep" from that V8 under the hood.

I am also considering an Acura TSX, for any of you who have ever driven one, can i get some non-biased opinions?

Thanks

 

I've NEVER been on a test drive where the dealer DID NOT let me drive on the highway.... I've never heard that before. If I were you, I would have headed to the first on ramp closest to the dealership. lol What's the worst he could do to you.... tell you your being bad.

The TSX is a very nice car too, I was able to test drive a friend of mine's 04 and it is worth every penny for that car.

 

Go to another dealer for a highway test drive, I have never heard that before.

Also you can buy the homelink panel for the Sport for $50 or 60 (need to check price again, but that was what it was last I have seen) and its pretty easy to fit, so dont worry about that too much.

Also I think you will like the highway ride of the new 4Runner, it's pretty good. I dont like the wind noise and the sensitivity to crosswinds. But I suppose it depends on what you are used to. but when I test drove SUVs the 4Runner stood out head and shoulders against it's competitors in smooth and quiet highway ride and handling.

 

I'd try a new dealer. The homelink shouldn't be an issue, I'd think your dealer would've thrown it in to cement a deal (I'd think its pretty much a "plug 'n play" option?). I've owned an '89 1st gen and a '95 2nd gen. My 4th gen is very different. On the highway I feel like I'm in a BMW (used to own a 5-series) compared to my old Runners. You would definitely say "Wow, this car is stable, quiet, smooth, quiet, accelerates strong even at 70 mph." You would also feel very safe in the 4th gen. I just don't think you can find a better deal in terms of quality, features, and safety for the $30K that you can pick up a 4Runner SE for.

 

Yeah looks like it is more expensive now.

http://www.partznet.com/toyota/4runn.../homelink.html

 

I used to have a 325ix bmw ... and to be honest, the v8 4Runner has more pep to it, and feels very taut as far as cornering and maneuverability go!

 

yeah but if the dealer doesnt have the personel to install the equip than they wont get it and dealers cannot order just anything they can reuest and hope for the best

 

Does anyone make this for the 3rd Gen 4Runners? I remember that it was in the driver's sunvisor.

 

I believe there is a Homelink integrated into an aftermarket rearview mirror somewhere out there.