Why I chose the 4Runner for overlanding (and why it's not perfect!)
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- čas přidán 7. 11. 2019
- Earlier this year, I switched from a Jeep Grand Cherokee to the 5th generation 4Runner. In this video I explain why I switched, and why I chose the 4Runner Trail Edition for overlanding. I also go over some of the things that I dislike about the 4Runner, because no matter what anyone says, there's no such thing as the perfect vehicle for overlanding!
Check out the Utah series here: • Expedition Utah #1 - D...
See the 4Runner build and equipment here: www.revereoverland.com/equipment
Featuring clips from:
Overland Pioneers - overlandpioneers.com/
Shawnee Hills Workshop - www.shawneehillsworkshop.com/ - Auta a dopravní prostředky
To address some common comments/questions:
1) Yes, I have driven a manual. No, I didn't explain myself very well. My first 5 vehicles were manuals, and my wife has owned 4 manual vehicles. I bought my first automatic at 27. When shifting from 1st to 2nd, you pull the stick completely towards yourself. When shifting from 2nd to 3rd, you follow a dogleg pattern. Yes, I know the dogleg pattern is away, but it's not a single movement away. In addition to that strange reasoning, most sequential shifters found in racing/rally cars also shift up by pulling back.
2) "It's not a manual shifter it's a..." Everyone who has made this point has called it something different. Either way, it limits the top gear, rather than selecting exactly which gear you're in. Whatever you call it, it has the same effect when used as described in the video.
3) I'm from England. That's why I talk funny. I moved to Kentucky ten years ago.
4) I guess I am shaped weird. 99% of people love the 4Runner seats. I will admit that they're growing on me, but they're still really hard. I recently sat in a new TRD Pro, and while the seats were the same shape, they were a LOT softer!
5) Mine is a 2010 Trail Edition. There really isn't a big difference between it and the newer models - slightly different front bumper and headlights, newer radio, and softer seats are all you really get with the newer ones.
My second vehicle was my dad's cast off Ford F150. I thought I was re-viving a dead hulk. With the 289 engine I basically had a Mustang with no rich kid vibe. I was the Road Warrior before George Miller ever saw his first insane biker. The shifter was pinned to the column with a bent #10 common nail. Shifting? I just did a little of this and a little of that, just like I'd seen my dad do thousands of times. Later in another vehicle I saw the H-pattern. If there'd been one in my pick-up it was long gone. So that's what I'd been doing for a year. 45 years later I can still do that pattern.... It wasn't an H it had a few more zigzags in it.
Thanks for #3. That southern twang with the English base make you sound like an Aussie expat. 😂
I would agree on the seats. I found the 2020 to have a much softer seat (compared to our work vehicle ).
My wife and I got a 2020. It is a bit better than the older models (mine is a TRD OR).
Just wondering do you still have this 4runner n end of 2020? And any reliability issues from the lift kit? TIA.
@@lcorr090k6 still got it. Coming up to 180k miles now and all I've done is replace oil and brakes.
I totally agree. The most important thing is you can drive back from remote places, and along the way tow the Jeep for your friend
ge gary 🤣😂🤣
LOL
😂
Rob, this was one of the most Honest Long Term Reviews Ive seen on youtube. It lacked bias, and touched on almost everything. The 4 Runner is IMHO the best all around SUV on the market. It isnt the best at anything, but great at everything. For me, Crawl control has been a life saver in Deep sand (Lots to find here in FL). My biggest complaints are the gearing (The MPG sux) and the lack of Modern Tech (We take them offroad, but they get way more time on pavement during commutes)..
Thanks! I tried crawl control at Lake Powell when I failed to get up a dune, but it just continued to dig me in, but that might be a difference in tires!
@@RevereOverland It might be that you were not giving it a chance to do what it needed to do. It takes time for it to dig itself out. The deeper you are, the more it has to re-fill the hole to lift itself out. Believe me, I have purposely buried it to the frame on the stock tires and let it just work away.
SHWELL11 my 2012 Limited 4RUNNER has 274000 miles on it and the only thing on the motor I replaced was and alternator at 247000 miles and the belt- do my own oil - air filter- brakes - still gets 19 or more miles per gal no hi way - the power from 0 to 80 is still fast - little off road by all hi way- 30000 per year and doing 80 every day on the hi ways by me - my first was a 2003 - I will take this one past 300000 by August - can’t beat it
@Pro4x Trdpro If "long term" is 6 months to you i guess so...
Im a 58 year old solo female and just bought my first ever 4runner for over landing (which I’ve also never done before, lol) so your channel is really helping me get to know more about my truck before I take it out. Thank you!!
Super excited!
As a prior 4Runner owner and former Toyota Technician I can truthfully (and maybe with a bias) say you made an excellent decision.
Myvkast 4runner had the V8 and Ibsold it at 418K miles and it honestly drove like new.
I've seen the V6 get upwards of 300k miles with no issues at all as well.
Best of luck and happy wheeling
@@jerlaine1638 thank you!
@@NilDreams how are your adventures going so far?
You will love it. Enjoy!
I was gonna buy a Wrangler but I'm 97% on paved road, a utilitarian homeowner who needs a more spacious cargo & off road capable transporter. And of course, the 4Runner is indeed a lot more reliable... 😉🙃
Drahcir You are correct. I own a wrangler not much space for anything.
@@rgjr.6055 wait. You mean to tell me the wrangler doesnt have more cargo space than 4runner? I thought the wrangler was bigger and better cargo space
style 20 A two door Wrangler basically has no cargo space. That’s why they make roof racks and hitch racks.
@@rgjr.6055 oh I thought you were talking about the 4 doors. Sorry
@@fakedazzleful The 4 door Wrangler also has tiny cargo space.
Had my first 4Runner for 19 years, on my second one and loving it.
Stevespecs how many miles did you rack up on that bad boy? I just got one and im beyond pleased with it.
Bought 99 new still have it 215,000 miles original drive line runs perfect looks great and she ain't no pavement princess lol. Never stuck stranded or towed anywhere her name is Grace cause she's freaking Amazin. 4Runners are like potato chips ya can't have just 1. Also have 97 325,00 miles original drive line runs perfect. Also not a pavement princess. Drive either anywhere tomorrow with no worries. And my Border Collie loves the rear window lol.
America needs the 70 series LC
I’d love one!
Nah, Americans are too soft.
@Dab Dab Goose: you can get one now that is 25 years or older from Japan, Spain or anywhere else in the world. Check out JDM Car and Motorcycle in Seattle, WA, Landcruisersdirect in MO, JDM AutoImports in Janesville, WI and many other US importers!
@@MaximumDIYGarage I'm from Australia I don't need to lol.
@Dab Dab Goose : yes, but Americans need the 70-series, you’re correct! I meant to address it to the author of the video
I grew up with my parents driving me around in a 1997 4Runner. When I turned 17 (2007) I used the 4Runner to get my drivers license. Now it’s 2021 still running strong, and I now drive my 4 year old around with it.
There isn’t a better,more reliable,or affordable vehicle in this class on the planet.👍
Brian 2015 Nissan Xterra is way more affordable for the same features. I can definitely agree tho, you can’t beat Toyota’s reliability
Greg Williams
Agreed.Love the Xterra,was sorry to see it go,but will be delighted when it returns.👍
Fj80
Greg Williams, 3 Nissans, 1 Xterra, 2 Pathfinders. Switched to 4Runner... would never go back. My last Nissan had a lot of problems.
@@zulmaortiz9620 totally agree, went from an 04 Xterra to a 14 4runner. Upgrade is an undersratement.
Solid review. Back in the day I was a tank officer in the Canadian Army, and I do a lot of ATVing, so I feel I know a lot about offroading. I am on my 4th 4Runner, a 2018 TRD Offroad, which is also my daily drive. Enough said.
I have same 2018 trd pro off-road I really want to go off-road what don't know the place where to go
@@joban558 Where do you live?
A hell of a recommendation as far as I'm concerned.
Thanks for your service!
Great dependability usable space and dementions. This comes from a F150 owner.
I really appreciate this detailed video. My husband & I have been considering purchasing a 4 Runner for some time now. We need a family vehicle with the option of going off roading whenever time permits. We are ready to move forward with this purchase coming up real soon. Thank You!
This review was extremely refreshing but what was most impressive was how you showed how capable this vehicle was in mostly stock form. Bravo on the great review.
The transmission doesn’t have a manual shift mode. It is a limiter, when you move it to “S” mode and place it in what ever gear you choose, the transmission won’t shift any higher then that, but it won’t force it into only that gear. It’s intent is for breaking and limiting the speed you go down declines
Crawl Control is absolutely all it is advertised to be. I re-created the test that Toyota did illustrating the CC in the sand(stock street tires) and it does just what it showed. Granted, the idea is to NOT get stuck in the 1st place and experienced off-road drivers have been NOT getting stuck since long before CC was created. However, as the saying goes, it is better to have the tool and not need it than to have a need and not have the tool. ;) All the whistles and bells on the TRD(Trail) editions are fantastic tools. Put the proper tires on for the terrain you are going on and you are golden.
You’re a perfect reviewer! And hit every nail on the head
The 4runner is quite a good platform for overlanding. Well sorted out drivetrain, more durable driveline and the aftermarket has provided all the items one would utilize for any specific applications! You made a wise decision.
Heck yeah! It’s why they’re so popular!
Excellent and honest review. I personally love the seats. I used to have a Jetta, and I make a trip from Ohio to Texas every year. The Jetta destroyed my neck and back. I’ve had no issues making that trip the past 2 years in my 4Runner. It is sluggish. But I installed a Pedal Commander and the throttle response is fantastic now. At this point I can’t imagine that I will ever want anything other than a 4Runner.
Great info, I currently have a 2009 Jeep Wrangler and looking for something more comfortable and with more storage space. This is one of the best reviews I’ve ever seen. Thanks ✌🏼
Great video!!! I am looking to buy a new 4runner, your video is a great help. Thanks! Best honest review I have seen!
I had a 2015 4 door wrangler. Which was an animal over here in canada. But traded it in for a 2022 4runner this year and just wow. Night and day better in every way. You've stated a lot of the points but one thing that immediately stood out to me was how overall amazing the quality of life upgrade was. You're basically gaining a plush soft pillow instead of hard rock while still retaining everything that makes it tough. Lol it's hard to describe exactly but I've been a jeep owner all my life and now I know what I'd been missing.
Great review... thanks. I've owned my 4RT (KDSS) for 10 years, have taken it in some harsh terrain including pulling my A/T Chaser and it never fails; never any problems, just routine dealer maintenance. Now at 108,000 miles. I too did aftermarket leather and a slight lift. I considered a LC, but, the 4RT had more cargo room for a slightly smaller package and it'll go anywhere a LC can go. Of course more power in the LC, but, is it really needed in 99% of situations. My son had 320,000 miles on his 4R before he sold it and it was in great condition; just routine maintenance.
The most authentic review I have ever seen on 4 runners, thanks @revere. As for me I am on my 4th 4Runner I love the unrefined organic trucky feel of the 4Runner. Adding a supercharger to 4Runner should solve the problem of sluggish engine however wish could have got it from Toyota as OEM equipment. Apart from that no complains.
Excellent unbiased review of the 4runner. Like Brandon Weaver mentioned, I do miss seeing your WK videos. That is what actually attracted me to them, but your honesty and nonToyota bias has kept me following you. I own a 3rd gen 4runner with triple the miles of my JK. I still want to buy a Grand Cherokee mainly for the extra hp as my wife and I want to purchase a small trailer for traveling in.
The WK was definitely better for towing. The Hemi had so much power! I’ve heard the diesels are even better.
Great review and discussion!
Very honest presentation.Just lain information no personal views.Top notch job.
Nice truck! Good review. I'm planning for a 2020 4Runner Limited next year.
I have the 2020 “Venture” edition. Fantastic vehicle and I came from a 2004 Pathfinder (old style) which was perfect for a daily driver and getting to my fishing holes - and it’s still running relatively strong today. But, my 4Runner has met and exceeded my expectations as a daily driver and off road. And my dog loves it too, if just for the rear window alone 😀
Love your review. Giving range and passing power as well as storage points of view makes me super excited to get delivery of my Rivian R1S. Similar range, way more storage, more power. I was a little worried I wouldn’t be able to overland with it, but that would be very comparable.
I've been watching your videos for awhile now, one of the only channels based close to where I live. I have not been able to get on the DBBB yet but your videos give a good indication of what it is like. Have a Tacoma now but I had a 2016 4Runner trail in past and I am with you on the transmission. I don't think the engine is truly underpowered but the transmission shift mapping is weird. There were lots of times where I wanted to accelerate, gave it some more throttle and it would shift up a gear instead of shifting down or staying in the same gear. You really have to mash the throttle to get it to move. Other than that it was a great vehicle and the roll down rear window is very cool.
I think an extra gear in the transmission would make a huge difference to the vehicle.
The DBBB is a lot of fun! It has definitely gotten tougher in the last couple of years though - not something to do alone.
Ive been going down to the DBBB for the past couple of years with an off road group. I do three to four trips a year with them. I split the trips between my 2003 Ranger Edge and my 1996 4Runner Limited.
It's definitely something worth doing.
I currently own a 2004 4runner, previously had a 2000 4runner, and have also owned a 2013 JKU Wrangler, and will soon be in the market for either a 5th gen 4runner, or JLU Wrangler. Everything you have said is spot on. I like both vehicles for different things, but a 4runner will beat a Jeep as a daily driver. But there are definite benefits to owning a Wrangler, as they are just a super fun vehicle to own. The ability to take the top and doors off is such a fun and amazing feature. Also the aftermarket as you mentioned for the Wrangler is much better supported. You simply have a ton of options to customize and add to your Jeep anything you want from seats, to bumpers. I'm going to test drive the JLU and see how I like it and depending on that it will be a really tough decision on what to get next.
I have a 2019 JLU Rubicon and love it. I also love the T4R TRD PRO too but unfortunately my bank account isn’t big enough to own both, and it was a hard decision to choose. I chose the Rubicon because it had some features that Toyota wasn’t offering on the T4R yet. I drove to Colorado from Texas (1,000 miles each way) did the mountain trails at the top of the passes and came back and it was great. Obviously you’ve owned both so you know what you’re getting into. Unfortunately there’s a lot of shit talking on these videos and forums but both vehicles are great in my opinion.
Great honest review. I had a 14 Tacoma with the same power train and know what you mean the power is just adequate stock. After I added 32" tires,lift and arb bumper it was a slug add to that a new puppy and towing my tractor I ended up in a diesel ram.
Very helpful and useful video. We have a 2015 Rav-4 AWD and are thinking about upgrading to something bigger and the 4Runner and Sequoya are at the top of our list. We don't do a lot of off overlanding but are planning on driving some of the Piute Trail System in Utah. We rented a side by side last time but I think a good 4WD is all you need for a lot of the trails.
Excellent and honest review
Thank you !!!
I sold Toyotas for a couple years and own a 2005 SR5 4Runner. A customer who bought one once said there was a saying in Australia, if you want to go out in the outback you take a Land Rover or Range Rover, if you want to make it back you take a land cruiser.
If you've ever driven farm/heavy equipment with "shuttle shift" type transmissions the forward upshift/rear downshift will seem natural. plus if you orient the shifter like a light switch, forward being "up" will correlate to "adding" a gear... at least that's how my brain interprets it. Great review.
Fellow Kentuckian here, considering living in a 4Runner to drive cross country. :) thanks for your video!
Excellent unbiased review
Great review! I have a Silver 2010 Trail and love it but FINALLY someone else that thinks the seats aren’t that comfortable on long hauls! It’s probably one of our top 3 complaints. Otherwise I’m 4Runner through and through and the OG Trail 👌🏻
Haha! Most people thought I was crazy when I complained about it. I drove a GX460 and had an aching back within about 15 minutes! I definitely got lucky with this one. OG Trail is where it’s at!
Also, thanks for doing this review! I'm stuck between a 4runner and a Rubicon but as much as the heart wants the Rubicon, I just know it's not going to be reliable.
4runner going to be hold the price but jeep not I loose half of money in two and half years plus Bluetooth is not good on jeep
Definitely 4runner
Rubicon is pure trash...belongs in a trash pile or graveyard.
Happy dugg wrangler has top resale of any car in Canada and I suspect one of the top 5 in USA. Call it garbage call it unreliable, but they hold their value well.
great review and very honest...great work.
Great unbiased review! I agree, its all about the best comprimise. My 4runner has been great at towing my wrangler friends after they run out of fuel. Lol
I, for one, especially appreciate your CANDOR ... also, in your introduction to overlanding video. For instance, I really saw the Truth in your introductory statement, "the best overland vehicle for you is the one you already have." THANKS ...
My wife is on her 4th 4Runner. A 2017. We love them! I do love Jeeps as well.
What happened to the other 3?
Joe Steele the first two she traded up. The last one got totaled because some dumb girl was playing on her phone and ran a red light. She T-boned my wife. Luckily the 4Runner kept her safe.
@@Cogzed Wow! Glad she was ok. I've been up in the air between a 4runner and a tacoma. I love both. Just not sure which one I want to go with.
@@joesteele3159 Depends what you use it for. I have a 16' Tacoma that I tow a 4200lb camper with as well. The 4Runner would limit me severely in that aspect, for when the gf wants her bed, tv, and bathroom lol. The 4Runner is definitely the better off-road vehicle tho.
Great review!
Couldn’t agree more. No, it’s not going to be as good of a rock crawler as a Jeep is. But the 4Runner is a better overlanding vehicle if you’re mainly doing moderate difficulty trails. A Trac does give you maybe 80% of a locker. Crawl control doesn’t interest me much. Descent assist sometimes comes in handy, but I prefer putting it in 1st in low range and just letting gravity do the work. If anybody is looking at buying one, mechanically an early 5th gen is basically the same as a new one at half the price.
Totally agree, thanks for your thoughts!
Thanks for that review!
Shifting from 2nd to 3rd is forward but I get what you are saying, downshifting on race cars with sequential gearboxes is forward towards the front of the car, upshifting is pulling towards the rear of the car. Thank for the pros and cons. I dig your videos.
I have a 2010 SR5 bought new. I appreciate your and everyone's reviews of the 5th gen. I have a few comments, (the first of which I've never seen in print), good and bad. The truncated tow hitch is not deep enough. It has been shortened to allow the spare to rest against it. If you find yourself running out of gas and can force yourself to drive 45-50 on level ground, you can get (I am not making this up) 26mpg. On the highway at 60 I get 22.4 though in mixed driving I get 16. I have cloth seats but have always used custom sheepskin covers. I hope the 6th gen is relatively unchanged but has some of the crash avoidance and camera features of 21st century cars. Half the time I remove the right hand 60% of the back seat bottom, and keep the 14mm wrench in the car for that purpose. This allows the passenger to recline while having extra flat space. I have a dual lens dashcam in the right rear window. I plug in my cooler and this to the 12V outlet at that location. This records almost everything that's around me, but especially the guy that hits me in the rear. I'm more interested in that footage than proof that I screwed up, but I really like that the ugly camera is not in my face. I understand that Toyotas charge at a lower voltage than other cars, making them unsuited for certain battery types, but I love the fact that bulbs never burn out at this low voltage. We have yearly inspections in Virginia and other brands commonly fail because of a single bulb being out. Finally, if you lose something in your 4Runner, look in that mystery cubbyhole at the bottom of the dash.
Great review on a great vehicle! Thanks...
Great review! I’ve been looking for one for a month and I recently started looking at JGCs bc they are cheaper and smother on the highway but I am in the market for a ten plus year older one so I’ll stick with the 4Runner search now. There are a few high mileage gen 4s my way for 8-10k. Jeeps are 6-8k.
Great vid!! Just found your channel It's funny. I switched from a Wrangler to a TRD offroad 4R. The Jeep was great but was in the shop with issues after 15k miles. I have had both in Moab and now question the Jeep was better offroad. But I still did it and just had to use great spotters
Good video, Thanks for sharing ✌
Thanks for watching!
I bought the 2019 TRD off road premium. Love it so far. I am adding a Gobi rack and ladder in the next few weeks. I wanted to know what lift you have on your 4runner. I have KDSS so I think it complicates things. Also how did you snake your extra power wires to the rear, running internally or externally. Would like to know how you did it.
Great Video!
Great review! My 1996 4Runner has 332K miles on it and has no signs of slowing down. Just gotta keep up on the maintenance which for something with this many miles on it, it's minimal. My friend's Jeep always needs to be worked on after every trip and he has half the miles and it's much newer. My 4Runner can go several weekend long trips with no issues. Yes I need to replace things more often because it's off road. I go through a steering rack every 2-3 years but that's the only issue with my 4Runner being a dedicated off-road vehicle.
Nicely done! Proud owner of a 2018 SR5 premium here. I find the seats pretty comfortable and i like every bit of the truck but I do wish it had a V8 for a truck this size.
@Yea Ok just the get up and go is bit sluggish, if I had a option then would take a V8.
awesome video and rig- your accent is a total trip; love it!
aussie + southern
I improved the engine performance by installing a TRD CAI and the TRD performance exhaust and it significantly improved response even with 285/70/17
This is the second video I have seen that knocks the cruise control on the 4runner. I just got me a 2018 and drove it from New Jersey to Utah 2196 miles and most of them using cruise control and my vehicle didn't miss a beat, I had no issues.
Nice review/video !
I agree with everything I would only add regarding the transmission...just like the older jeep I once owned, OD on these vehicles is a torque converter lockout for mileage and so when your faced with any steep grade it’s best to keep the transmission lever in S which keeps the converter out of the equation till you crest the hill...it’s easier on the transmission. My jeep behaved exactly the same way in the hills regarding overdrive.
I recommend getting a Sprint Booster module to wake up your 4runner for a quicker acceleration.
And for remote start, Accessorides system is your best solution. You'll love it!
Both are plug-n-play and easy to install. (Took me about 30 min for both)
Btw, great content. Keep it up!
Does the Accessorides remote start turn off when you open the door? Most I've read about do, and I'd like one that stays on!
@@RevereOverland Nope! It'll stay on.
Here, let me explain the sequences when starting the engine remotely from the OEM key fob:
-Press LOCK x3 on the key fob.
-Car beeps 3 times.
-Engine starts. The engine will stay running for 15 min then will auto shut off. (All doors remain locked)
Now, if you decide to get in and drive off:
*While the engine is running from the remote start.
-Press UNLOCK on key fob remote to unlock doors.
-Stick key into ignition switch, turn to ignition position (do not crank)
-Put it in gear and drive off.
Note:
If the brake pedal is pressed WITHOUT the key in the ignition position, the engine will shut off. It's their security feature.
In my opinion, Accessorides system is much better -- and cheaper -- than the one from the dealership.
Perfect! Thank you!
@@RevereOverland you're welcome! 👍
Love the seats
Love these vehicles! How many miles are you at? I recently just purchased a 2012 and haven't found too many guys running these older ones (All I see are the new body styles on the road). Also curious with which lift you went with?
great video I definitely agree when you said the only vehicle you would trade your 4runner for is a newer 4runner,,I have a 2012 and have had zero issues with it ,I gave it to my wife only cause I have a tacoma Trd offroad to and the 4runner is better for her with the kids and her job
I traded in my 2004 up for a 2012 back in 2014 by the way and my next one is gonna be 2021 or 2022
Tacoma is good choice too! I just spent all weekend riding in a TRD Off-road Tacoma!
Love my 2007 4th gen V8 Limited 4Runner!
I agree with you, great review as a 4Runner...I am getting a 2020 limited
Gotta love those cooled seats in the Limited!
Just bought a 2020 limited nightshade. I waited for all the new tech. Had it for a week now. Love love love. I'm so happy. Just make sure your salesperson knows everything about it. Came across one that didnt even know it has remote start standard and wanted to give remote start to me for free as part of the deal. Needless to say I didn't buy it from them. 😜 Do your research before you go. And Yes you will pay big 💰 for it but in the long run I feel its worth it. Plan on keeping mine for years. Drive your new one in the best of health and go camping!🌲
@@gratefulgirl6716 Thank you. I am actually trading my 2015 limited (80k on it already). I did not know about the remote starter, that is awesome. I got all the options I can get, including the Toyota dashcam which is a great feature now offered by them. I can not wait to pick it up. This one, I am going to keep it for a long time, but I have said that before. :) you too enjoy your limited and all the best.
Limited is for soccer moms. Why would you get a hardcore off road vehicle and buy the neutered old lady version that should not even exist?
Bassage13- o.k. so it doesn't have a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, or TRD Fox Shocks. But she's so pretty. LOL😜
3rd and 5th (and 7th in my car) gear are ‘away from yourself’ while shifting up in a manual. But I get it. It’s just one of those thing about brains. Some people just naturally want controls inverted... but that feels totally backwards to others.
Honest review Rob. Question if you did another 4 Runner what would you do differently this time? Also I assume your was running 33” tires, did you regear and if you did would you do that again? Thanks
I got the 2020 4Runner TRD PRO!!! In white!!!
I am loving it!!!!
Great choice. I just sat in one today and immediately wanted a Pro!
Many of us are feeling the envy now until we look at the payments. Ha Ha Ha
Great Review thank you 👍🇺🇸
The Vermonter
hEY Rob. Excellent review video. I may have missed it but, could you tell me what year and model your 4 runner is? Many thanks. Mary
What tires did you upgrade to? and did you keep the stock wheels? Third, if you did keep the stock wheels did you size up in changing the tires out? Thanks!
Have you changed your axle gear ratio? Do you think that would help with acceleration and/or MPG? I've got a Liberty diesel and get mid-20s on the highway and 17ish offroad. Been thinking about a 4runner (for more aftermarket support, reliability, and space) but hard to give up MPG when overlanding and the torque of the diesel is so smooth on the trails. I don't go rock crawling but mainly just want to get into the woods and away from crowds. Maybe one day we will get more efficient overland options (come on Toyota...bring in the diesel or hybrid options!) that have a real transfer-case (...I see you subaru folks...they're great but there is no comparison to low-range). Thanks for the honest review!
An english man that moved to Kentucky and loves to go 4x4 packing? What in Thunder is going on here?
My wife is eyeing a 4Runner for her next vehicle. I already got my FJ and its her turn. And this would be her 4th 4Runner if she pulls the trigger. She keeps remembering our 1st 1992 4Runner when we use to tow the kids and dog on and off road just for fun. Our 1992 4Runner was a beast and occasionally see it on the road.
Hey thanks for putting this up. Loved your take on your beautiful vehicle. .
I liked your review, you covered a lot of the basics and it was a good evaluation of the 4Runner; I just recently purchased a 2019 Off Road Premium.
I have had lots of other 4x4s and a major reason that I bought the 4Runner was exactly for the reason that you stated in your review. I sold my Hummer H3; which I feel was a more capable off road vehicle , but the reliability was bad and the roof leaked (which is a common problem with H3s). Nothing worse than being in the middle of no where and your vehicle won't start. I loved my H3 but the mechanical problems were too much for me.
Thank you for sharing and I am looking forward lots of off road miles in my 4Runner!
bought my 2005 sport with the 4.7. its 2wd and im perfectly fine with it since im in Texas and i owned a 2012 Taco for almost 5 years without an issue with all terrains. my other car is a 2018 wrx so 4wd aint a problem!
Do you know what gear ratio it has? It might need re geared to help optimize the small amount of power it has especially if you have bigger tires
I loved the seats on my 2014 trail version that was the same color as yours. Think it's slate. I ended up going back to my FJ cruiser because I found that being a big old boy 6'4 300 the fj had more leg and arm room. But overall I agree with you on a lot of your points. Try adding a good exhaust system it helped some with my FJ feel like I have better low end torque.
I started overlanding with a brand new FJ Cruiser my parents bought for me when i was 16 and am almost 29 now. I went from my FJ Cruiser to a 4Runner, and have tried a few others in between, but keep returning to 4Runner, buying a new 2019 TRD Off Road Premium in late 2018 which is my forever rig! I bought a Land Rover Defender when they came out, and didn't even keep it for a year lol, returning to my 4Runner. I recently bought a Sasquatch'd Bronco Wildtrak from my boss and, and it was fun for trail fun, but I ultimately just let my husband use it as a trade it towards a Bronco Raptor. That is a trail toy.. Not an overlander lol
The moral to this story is the 5th gen 4Runner is my forever rig! I'm Japanese, now living in British Columbia, Canada and did a 2 year scholarship in Australia, so I have driven MANY 4x4s, and can honestly say the 5th gen 4Runner is definitely the best a 4x4 in the North American market! Japanese built Toyota's are the best vehicles in the world!
I love 4Runners. I think they’re great vehicles. But it was really nice to hear someone talk about them realistically for once. No car or truck is perfect. Things will break. Did make me happy finding out the fuel economy was better than jeeps though lol. I’ve always been a little embarrassed about how bad my gas mileage is compared to my friends cars
I've got a 2006 4R 4.7 V-8 and I get great gas mileage. I get 20 in the city and up to 28 on the highway if I go 60 mph. Turnpike speeds will knock it down to 22 at 75-80 mph. Of course, senior citizen and not going off the road. 122,000 miles. Love my 4R
Gotta love those V8s!
You do not get 20 in the city. The v6 doesnt even do that.
@@jackdunn4463 Do you need a screenshot? I do, according to my car. I know how to drive and have had this car for 14 years. I am 71 years old, so please do not attempt to lecture me.
@@CosmicStargoat ok boomer
@@jackdunn4463 OK, kid. I have no reason or motivation to make things up. I was surprised as well.
You are a honest man and best review. Toyota is the most reliable SUV. My 1996 is still running almost 300 thousands miles.
very true review, a Prado owner from asia.
I friend of mine has a 4Runner and it looks like a GREAT rig! I have a Jeep Wrangler and simply love it because of one feature it has that I have seen in no other 4x4 at the moment: removable top. I have the Bestop Sunrider top and when my wife and I are out exploring, that top is OPEN and the visibility is simply amazing. There is no sunroof that can do justice to what we have with the Jeep's top off. I just love it!
Now if Toyota would do something like Ford did with the Bronco and come out with a FJ or something with a removable top, then who knows!
Regarding seats, with a 35" inseam (I'm 6'2", but my height is from the waist down.) I find the cushion LENGTH in most cars like sitting on a baseball park bench - no support out past mid-thigh. How many fingers can you place between the seat cushion and the underside of your knee (that's my seat-length barometer ).
Best overall and honest review of the 4Runner I’ve yet seen. Driving a 2018 Off Road which is still stick except for tires and you’re assessment and practical upgrades totally match my own philosophies. Had already decided on the Prinsu Designs Rack (now to get it to Canada without too major a cost. What size tires and lift did you go with?
Great vehicle! I've got a couple of videos on my channel showing the tires and lift - OME MD lift, and 285/70/r17s.
@@RevereOverland Thanks! Will look them up.
Have you looked at adding the extended gas tank? Or a super charger for power?
I want to add one to my 4Runner.
I've never used the crawl control as an "off-road cruise control". I've only used it when stuck or when climbing and A-trac isn't cutting it. Let the crawl control work for a few minutes and it does an amazing job at get out of SOME situations.
Thank you for your honest review! I am getting ready to purchase a trd offroad premium. I was wanting to know your thought on the KDSS system? Worth the extra $$? I heard good and bad things about it. _thanks!
I test drove a couple with KDSS and really liked it. It improved the on road handling, and really adds to the articulation on the trail. There are downsides though - it'll make it harder to lift (although not impossible), and if it's not well taken care of, can be a very expensive fix in the future. If I was buying new, I'd probably get it. For an older or higher mileage vehicle, I'd probably avoid it.
@@RevereOverland Thank you! Just wondering how it would hold up to offroad abuse...
I can't speak from experience, since mine doesn't have KDSS, but most of the issues I've read about have been because they get rusted or aren't maintained properly. I have seen KDSS equipped 4Runners off road though, and there's a noticeable difference in the front end wheel drop!
Great review, some recommendations I have read the 4.0 L does perform better with an intake and exhaust upgrade. I have owned 99 4runner for 14 years, considering your model possibly soon.
I went from on 01 to a 12 and I loved the 5th Gen but still miss my 3rd Gen.
I really find crawl control to smooth out once you go past the first speed setting. But I do wish the slowest speed was smoother. Probably need more than a 5spd transmission to get that. Maybe the 2021 model?
I agree, it’s definitely smoother at higher speeds! It works well for smooth hill climbs and descents, but doesn’t seem to really do anything I’m not capable of!
I think more gears in the transmission would solve a lot of the issues I have with it!
Reliability...one of the reasons I bought a 4Runner (2016) and ditched my Jeep. Have owned several Toyota's before but never a 4Runner. I agree with you it's not perfect, but when it comes to reliability I'd rather have my 4Runner in my garage, than my Jeep always in the dealership garage...always had problems with my Jeep.
Great real-world review. What model 4runner did you start with; sr5, sr5 premium, trd off-road, trd off-road premium? I checked your web site, but didn't see. Thanks for doing the video.
Thanks! It’s a Trail Edition
Good Video! Thx Bro!
Which model four runner did you go with and how many miles were on it when you purchased the truck? thanks
How would you say it compares to the discovery/LR3/4?
Thanks for the video (-:
I'd guess they're similar in terms of capability, but the 4Runner has the advantage with the rear locker. When it comes to reliability, there's no question - 4Runner blows the Land Rovers out of the water. British engineering has never had a good reputation, and having ridden with LR3s on the trail, it has earned its poor reputation!
It has a better crash test, far better resale, more room inside plus tows 1500 pounds more. Plus, I got more standard features for less than the jeep. Mine is a 2022 SR5 Premium without the locker on the rear. For what the one-year-old used jeeps cost I can put a lift kit with 285s and a front and rear ARB locker on it and still be under the price of a jeep for the asking price here in Salt Lake City for a used jeep