Test drove 2003 4 runner and tundra. Noticed the 4 runner had some side to side sway. The tundra drove about as good as my lexus. Sold my old lexus ls400 to get maybe the 4 runner. Want the suv but the trundra drives great but a little too much $ for me since I would use as a work truck. Both have the lexus V8.
The 4 runner would replace lexus as my toy.

Is this caused by the full time 4 wheel drive?
Both are nice just did not expect a truck to handle better than the SUV. Wish I could afford both

 

Well, the 4Runner has a lot more cabin space which makes it more top heavey than the Tundra. Neither is going to handle like you IS. As far as SUV's go the 4Runner handles great, especially with the X-reas suspension.

 

Your coming from a car, after a while the 4Runner will be normal, nothin to worry about, it will not flip or roll over.

Just got to remember your higher up and the wind catches it easier, just slow down when it's windy what could happen you live longer

 

Huh ? If this is your impression, I don't think you gave either vehicle a decent test drive. I don't mean to bust your chops, but after owning a Tundra and going to the 4Runner, there really isn't any comparison - the 4Runner has the Tundra beat. From my experience, the Tundra rides smoother, but is VERY tippy in corners and has less precise handling. Driving the Tundra was much like driving a marshmallow. But, boy did I LOVE that powertrain !

Look around on Tundrasolutions.com and see what they say over there. A large number of people have installed swaybars to their trucks in order to improve cornering and handling. Then, go and test drive both vehicles again !

Steve

 

Thanks for all replys. It was a short test drive. Just wanted to make sure before I spend the $. I plan to keep this one for 10 to 15 years. Was a little concerned because wife gets car sick ( but good excuse to leave her at home) on my 1991 LS 400 had to install koni racing shocks because ride too smooth and was to much like being in a elevator. And I myself do like a little road feel.

 

Actually, Lexus has the Toyota V-8!

Which model 'Runner did you drive? Look for one with the X-REAS suspension for best on-road handling. Also, if you were driving a new vehicle from the dealer's lot, there's a good chance that the tire pressures weren't set to factory specs, degrading handling. Did you try heavy braking in both? There's a huge difference in braking power and control favoring the 'Runner.

Lastly, the 'Runner is built in Japan at the flagship Tahara plant where Lexus is built. IMHO, Japan built Toyotas are better quality than US built vehicles, especially the paint.

 

Another note:

don't forget that the 4runner comes with the 5 speed A/T vs the 4 speed A/T found in the Tundra (same engine ofcourse!)