Hey,
my pops is looking for a new ride.
He is thinking '05 4runner. he wants some info regarding the 4runner and the lexus. Not sure what the lexus is called. Not the jelly bean version but the one that looks like the 4runner. I say 4runner. What are the differences? He wants the limited. Any input would be nice. New 4runner drivers, how is the ride. Is it a good 4wheeler? Any problems with the v8? Thanks in advance.
snowman

 

Check out this cool build-up of a Lexus GX470 that Four Wheeler Magazine did:

http://www.fourwheeler.com/projectbuild/129_0504_tlex/

 

they're the same. one has more bling w/ the lexus status. engine/drivetrain all the same so if you don't need the luxury status stick w/ the 4runner.

it's all about the perks at that point.

good luck

 

Yeah exactly - they are essentially the same - same chassis (the GX 470/4runner/new TAcoma are all built on Toyota Landcruiser "Prado" platform) - same engine (at least when the runner has the V8), etc. Again - the Lexus just has more bling/luxury. I am not sure if you can get X-REAS suspension in the 4runner in the GX 470 though. I really really like the looks of the GX 470 - it is easily the nicest looking SUV they've ever put out.

 

such a cool article.

 

Get both

The GX470 and the V8 4Runner are both on the same platform. My recommendation is to go look at the LTD V8 4Runner and drive it. If it is big enough inside, luxurious enough for your needs and quiet enough for you then get it. Once your dad test drives the GX he might not look back.

I assume it will not be used for any serious offroad duty and will not be modified in any way.

The 4Runner LTD can get be had with XREAS suspension to improve on road handling. The GX can be had with Sport option with the KDSS suspension. In these forms they both handle really well, I would give the GX a slight advantage from the ones I test drove. (Only problem is the color schemes on the GX is limited with KDSS ) Even without these suspension options they both handle well, but the 4Runner will defintely feel more sporty then. The GX has a softer ride, but doesn't handle as sporty as 4R without KDSS.

The GX has a barn door in the back, read PITA. The 4Runner has the roll down window in the rear which is great and pretty handy.

Now the obvious stuff, the GX's interior is way nicer than the 4Runner. It is also quite a bit bigger inside than the 4Runner. If headroom and rear legroom is required the GX has a significant advantage over the 4Runner. The rear cargo area is also bigger. It also has independant A/C in the back.

The GX also has a rear air suspension and adaptable shocks. Teh rear air is nice when you load 4 people and some cargo in, as the 4Runeer tends to drag it's butt.

Both will have plenty of power so no issues there.

4R less $$$$ more sporty (compared to GX without KDSS)
GX more $$$$ less sporty (without KDSS), more roomy, spoils you more, will work better for carrying people and cargo.

Oh and good deals can be had on both at the moment, so hit them for a good price.

SO the question is what will it be used for and what is important to your family.

 

you'll miss sliding back windows when you go with lexus........ one of the big perks with 4runners

 

If money isnt an option I would go with the GX....I would love to have a new 4runner but I would prefer a new GX.

My step mother drives a GX470 and its really really nice. Has alot of room inside with a really nice interior design. Its a status symbol too imho, that doesnt matter to me too much but might be a concern of yours....

Go drive both you'll see what I'm talking about. I myself if I had the choice I would go with the 4runner and pocket the extra cash. An 05 loaded 4runner is really nice too, surprisingly nice compared to its competition....

 

Does anyone have a copy of this article they could email me? I just closed on an '05 GX470 stateside today and can't hardly wait the ~ a week before I even see it! Great forums/thanks for the info.

 

After you get the GX, check and make sure the drive shaft and control arm TSB has been performed. What it involves is a new drive shaft and new control arms that adjust the angle of the rear axle to solve a bang/clunking issue.

The nice thing about having a Lexus is that the Lexus warranty will cover many things that other companies will not. Enjoy it!

 

it might be me, but the GX is considerably more quite...

 

Don't think this was mentioned but the GX can be easliy found with the 3rd row seats and when equipped seats 8. 8 adults probably would be tight but if you have kids with friends this can come in handy. The 4Runner has a 3rd row option but they are pretty rare and even more rare if you want a V8 (from what I have seen). The 4Runner's 3rd row only seats 2 so you can carry 7 passengers.

 

More regarding dealer servicing - Lexus (at least the dealer my mother's is from) likes to nickel and dime you for services. Crap like charging to refill your windshield washer fluid. If you go with the Lexus, be vigilant about what they do for the services by being clear what you do and don't want them to do.

 

This is very true. But, if you complain enough, they'll give away the farm for free! Also remember, it's a luxury vehicle, so parts and services will be much more expensive than if you bought a Toyota.

 

If it sways your decision, I went with the GX for a few reasons.
Both the 4runner V8 Limited and the GX470 are the same except the GX has
More headroom
More interior space
More storage room in the back
More luxury's
Smoother ride
If you have no intentions of putting a lift kit in, the GX is only $4k more than the equivalent full time 4wd 4runner and holds its value better.

 

Just so you know you bumped a 9 year thread.

 

I just read through this thinking "this is a weird conversation in the context of buying a ten year old rig."