I have a friend that is looking for a SUV for his wife. He is thinking about a 4th gen, 04 - 05, 4runner. They may use it for light camping but no real wheeling so it'll stay stock. What should he look for?
Year?
Trans?
Engine?
Packages?

Is X-reas a good or a bad thing?

Anything he should stay away from?

 

42 views and no opinions?

 

get the pinnacle or 4 runners and get a 3rd gen. they are cheap and look less plasticky on my opinion. The new toyotas went downhill they can keep the tundra, it looks like an abortion to me, and the FJ............excuse me while I PUKE!

 

Is every unhappy with their 4th gen?

It appears so with the lack of responses.

 

Buy an 05+ with the 5-speed auto, V6 and xreas, you'll love it. The V6 is 2-wheel, and 4-wheel hi/lo. The V8 is all-wheel, which is a profound waste, since you only need 4-wheel a few times a year. They're old enough now that you should be able to buy the Limited at a good price.

 

I've never owned one, but I've driven a few. They are expensive, and really don't drive that nice, IMHO. Be very aware of any recalls that may be in effect. I'm with whoever said to get a 3rd gen. It will cost less than half the price of a 4th gen, and likely last longer. It's not quite as big inside, but you can get them with leather, and other nice options. If you're never gonna take it off the pavement, and you don't live where you need 4X4, you can get a 2wd for a very good price.

 

I love my 03 4runner! Mine is a limited v8 awd and JET BLACK! It looks and drives sweet! I did not have to stop and put it in 4wd when we got hit with snow this year. Ever year and model has recalls, so that doesn't bother me. I've had a 94 4runner and the 03 is a big difference! Earlier models are easier to work on and are cheeper. Depends on what your buddies wife like. If she is like mine she will like the 03-up model.

 

The 4th Gen is leaps and bounds better than the 3rd Gen in terms of comfort, handling and refinement. The 3rd Gen is cheaper (obviously). X-REAS is excellent and well worth it. The V6 is awesome, I wouldn't bother with the V8 unless she plans on towing. The V6 came with a 4 spd auto in 03-04, and a 5sp auto 05+. I have the 4 spd and it is fine, but the 5 spd is probably smoother and better if you don't mind spending more for a newer model. The Sport package is a good deal, and gives you X-REAS suspension. X-REAS is optional on the Limited.

Not too many 4th gen owners on here, which is probably why there is a lack of replies. Most 4th Gen ownwers love their truck, of those of us that have had or driven 3rd Gens like them more than the 3rd Gens.

Make sure te 4wd hi and low and the centre diff lock work. The actuaters can seize up over time if they are not used. That has been an issue with some people buying them used from people who never used those features.

 

Most 4th Gen ownwers love their truck, of those of us that have had or driven 3rd Gens like them more than the 3rd Gens.

x2 on that one!

It feels great having a v8 in a 4runner!

 

My 4th gen has been very reliable and comfortable. Never got stuck anywhere and never had to worry about snow or mud with Revos on it.

The V8 is full time 4x4, not all-wheel drive but I think it's slightly different than real full time 4x4. It's definitely nice to change from hi to low inside the vehicle.

 

I've thrown alot at the wifes '06 4th gen V6 Sport and it's handled everything with ease!! The traction control CAN be obnoxious at times but it's amazing at what it can handle.

Right now I'm researching intake and exhuast options...

 

I have an 03 V6. Love the vehicle. I have driven 3rd gens, definitely more off road capable stock but not nearly as refined. Just put some 32's on mine and it off roads real nice so far! The 5 speed is nice, but the 4 speed still works well. Get what you can afford. If off road is a priority, get a 3rd gen. If your going to be going on long trips, 4th gen is much more comfortable.