Hey guys new to Toyota forums. I have been a big fan of awd drive cars but now the family is growing so I was thinking about an SUV. I really love the looks of the 4th gen 4runners but have read that people have a lot of problems getting into 4wd. Is this a common occurrence? I am really leaning for the Toyota but am also checking out the xterra and pathfinder. I used to drive a jeep wrangler TJ but wont ever go back to Jeep. The jeep thing is not a good thing trust me on that...

 

I personally don't think there is a big problem getting the 4wd to engage. The real problem is that you have a lot of folks who were used to have a lever to engage the 4wd (myself included), and now you have to use a silly knob with electronic actuators that will not force themselves into place like you can with and elbow powered lever. Therefore they sometimes must be coaxed a little, but this is a simple learning process. The Xterra is, dare I say, a fine machine, but it's not a Toyota. Do some test drives and be realistic about what you need/want.

 

thanks for the reply : ) I really really am hung up on the rear window and how it can be rolled down : ) I think that is the biggest selling point for me that and toyota is a great brand

 

Before settling on a 4th gen 4Runner I seriously considered the Xterra, mainly because it is more affordable. Based on all the reviews read I really believe the 4Runner is overall the better the choice of the two for most purposes.

The 4Runner has lots of on road advantges: full time as well as part time 4 wheel drive. This is great for any on road or offroad conditions, and you have the option to lock the center and have it perform like a conventional part time system. With the Xterra you should really only use the 4 wheel drive off road. The 4Runner has stronger breaks with better pedal modulation, whereas the Xterra has mushy breaks. This is based on multiple reviews I have read. I have never driven an Xterra. Reviews generally say the 4Runner handles better on road. I have driven the new Pathfinder, and it is pretty good on road, but the 4Runner feels a bit better, and gets better reviews.

Advantges to the Xterra are the available 6 speed manual transmission, availble locking rear differential (great for off road only) better approach, departure and ramp breakover angles (again, only beneficial for off road).

A few things to keep in mind:

The rear window on the Xterra doesn't open. The electric rear window on the 4Runner seams to give out and need repair/replacement for some people after mainy years (on older models).

All three (Pathfinder, Xterra, 4runner), all shift into 4 wheel drive with an electric switch in much the same way. I prefer the manual shifter. The electric one is slow and seems to work a lot better while moving slowly in a straight line. Once you are stuck, it is really hard to get it. Putting it in neutral and being patient helps. I much prefer being able to engage 4 wheel drive right away when I want it. I once had an '03 F250 with an electronic switch and it stopped working out in the middle of nowhere when I got the front end ditched on a 3-point turn. It took hours to get myself out. Since then I have lost confidence in them. I know it was Ford... but still, electroncs are less reliable.

I am not sure how hte engines compare in performance. The Xterra and 4Runner have the same size engine that deliver similar torque and HP. The 4Runner has the option of the slightly more powerful V8 for more towing ability.

The 4Runner has a more high end/luxury feel than the Xterra, while the Xterra has a more rugged look and feel with more plastic on the interior.

The 4Runner has a better record of reliability according to consumer reports than the Xterra.

 

cool thanks for the replies guys probably going to keep my car now and trade in the wifes accord for a new pathfinder in February when her lease is up. Had a hard time getting rid of my car now I get the best of both worlds!!