figures. toyota always gives everybody but north america a lot of options(manual transmission, diesel etc). funny how i just considered a manual as an option, but it seems it's becoming that way

while we're on the topic of toyota only importing auto 4runners(and probably soon trucks, watch out tacoma), did you know that solid axles were used in the hilux in almost everywhere besides north america until 1997?

 

I learned how to drive using my grandpa's 1970 FJ40 landcruiser. It was a manual with a PTO driven winch which we(my cousins) use a lot pulling ourselves out of the rut. This was in the Philippines back when I was younger and this landcruiser is still running. It was rebuilt a couple of times and has about 500k miles on the odo. We used to call it "iron horse". We have a lot of FJ40 (turbodiesel and gas) landcruisers in the Philippines and I wish I can import one here in the U.S. Now, if I have to drive an auto tranny, it will be a newer landcruiser since Toyota doesn't import any manuals to the U.S.

George

 

There is also one in the glove compartment, which is technically "behind" the 4.7.

 

Well I had a manual in my 95 Taco and when I traded it in for my 2000 Runner I got it with a manual. I love my stick, I can not see getting an SUV/Truck without a manual. My wifes GX-470 has an auto and it is nice...for an auto. It shifts smooth and all but since I have been told that it will "NEVER see any dirt if I know what is good for me!!" So i say stick with a manual...

 

hey I just stumbled across this site and I was looking for this kind of information. My wife and I are thinking about trading our TJ (stick) for a 96-02 4runner. We both wanted another stick but we are open. We wheel and tow with the jeep.

So the standard tranny has a lower tow capacity? why is that?

 

I love my auto. Keeping her cool and the fluid changed often will last as long as any 5 speed.

 

I would definetely go with the 5speed...

I have a 97 4runner and when I drove my friends with the auto there was a huge different in acceleration. I was amazed. And plus I like having the pedal response of the manual 10 times more than an automatic. With an auto you press the pedal and you have to give the torque converter a split second or two to respond and that results in a lag. The manual: you floor it and it responds that exact second.

 

The clutch has something to do with it for sure. I read a couple of days ago that clutches can't handle much strain when towing...not sure exactly. But if u upgrade the clutch i'm sure it will be just a good. I'd rather have a manual personally. Pick the gears on climbs, descents (which is crucial for towing) and you pick the power band you are looking for...

I like to be in control of the car.