So I am starting to think about replacing my trusty 97 Ltd 4Runner with a 4th gen for daily driving.

The things I like about the 4th gen are more power, more room and (I assume) a more comfortable ride. I think I'd definitely go with the V6 as I hear that V8 only outperforms it when it comes to towing. I also like the idea of the 5 speed auto.

That being said, do you think the 2005 model would be the one to look at? Any issues with the new for 2005 year 5speed tranny?

Some less important factors in my choice also include:
I really like the matching color grill (not the chrome grill)
I like the silver accent on the rear bumper instead of the solid color bumper.

Finally, what about x-reas? I know the primary benefit is handling but how does it affect ride comfort?

Thanks.

 

Sorry, I am no help. But I am very interested to hear other's feedback on this topic.
~subscribed

 

I can't help either as I own a 1990 pickup but if I had the cash I 'd probably buy a newer 4Runner. If you can afford it go for it.

I'm pretty sure the transmission will be fine if it's been taken care of.
From what I have read about the xreas suspension some people have said they couldn't tell the difference, the price difference new is only $1k anyways for the sport model I guess.

 

ya id get a 4th gen but unless i lost a leg i like my 5spd

 

if the '05 4Runner was the same as the tacoma (i had an '05) transmission wise, I really like the Auto with the 4.0 V-6. It was fairly smooth shifting, I towed decent loads with it periodically (used a brake controller) and it did great.

 

I have both a 3rd gen and and 4th gen. I have an '04 and as far as I know, the 5 speed auto only comes with the V8 - that's why I got a V8.

As far as interior room - the 4th gen seems a little bigger inside but here are the stats...
3rd Gen
----------------------------------------------
Wheelbase 105.3 in (2675 mm)

Length
1996-98: 178.7 in (4539 mm)
1999-2000: 183.2 in (4653 mm)
2001-02: 183.3 in (4656 mm)

Width
2WD: 66.5 in (1689 mm)
Limited: 70.9 in (1801 mm)

Height
1999-2002: 67.5 in (1715 mm)
1999-2002 Limited: 68.5 in (1740 mm)
1996-98: 66.5 in (1689 mm)
1996-98 Limited: 68.7 in (1745 mm)

4th gen
------------------------------------------
Wheelbase 109.8 in (2789 mm)

Length
2003-05: 189 in (4800.6 mm)
2006-present: 189.2 in (4806 mm)

Width
2003-05: 73.8 in (1875 mm)
2006-present: 75.2 in (1910 mm)

Height
2003-05 SR5: 68.9 in (1750 mm)
2003-05: 71.6 in (1819 mm)
2006-present SR5: 69.3 in (1760 mm)
2006-present Sport: 71.3 in (1811 mm)
2006-present Limited: 71.1 in (1806 mm)

Here are some things I don't like about the 4th gen...

- Interior head room not so good but not unbearable. (see other topics on this)
- Side rear quarter panel windows should have been larger (like the 3rd gen). There is a huge blind spot that will surely get you into trouble on the trails.
- Push button 4WD (should have stuck with manual lever)
- Electronic tail-gate latch (another thing that can / will break)

Here are some things I like about the 4th gen...

-The V8 engine fits nicely into the engine compartment. I haven't changed the plugs or anything like that yet but it looks like it would be very easy to do. Everything else looks very accessible.
- Cup-holders - in a decent place this time! LOL
- Uphill start assist - Won't roll backwards on a steep incline (always active)


In Conclusion
------------------------
The 3rd gen, IMO is a much better trail vehicle. I use my '97 for the trails / daily driver and my '04 strictly as a daily driver (for now anyway).

This is all I can think of off the top of my head. I know this is a lot of info but I hope it helps some

 

Thanks for the replies everyone. I guess I'll just have to start doing some test drives in the 4th gen to see how I like it!

 

I have an 02 and a 06 V8, I love the V8, it is the reason for now that i won't upgrade the 02 to an 2010.
If I spend that sort of money, I want a V8. Love the torque and the sound. Fuel mileage actually isn't that far off from the 02 imo.
That could be becuase the wife usually drives the 06.

 

I have an 03 4Runner V8. It is by far the best vehicle that I have ever owned. I like the V8 a lot, but the V6 does not give up any power. You can't go wrong with the 4th gen. That being said, the 3rd gen is beautiful looking.

 

You should really look over at T4r.org for this question. As for the 4th gen, I love my 06 Sport Edition V8 I just replaced the XREAS with the Overland Warehouse 2.0 Radflo kit. The XREAS was fine, nothing negative about it really. I had a Cornfed 3/2 spacer lift on with the XREAS and it was ok but not great by any means. If you want the color matched grille you will have to get a limited, if I am not mistaken. You can always get a sport and put a limited grille on it. It is not very hard at all and well worth it. I have a Satoshi grille about to be finished for mine.