Any issues that I should be aware of, should I buy a new 4Runner?

Hey everyone,

I'm Chris, it's nice to meet all of you! And no, I don't have a 4Runner, but recently, I've been doing a lot of research on them, and the Tacoma.

I have a 2018 Chevy Colorado with just under 13K miles that's had two recurring transmission issues, and now it's in the shop again for leaking transmission fluid (or something red, I don't know anymore...). I started looking at alternatives since it's getting more and more likely that I'll have to sell my truck. The only alternatives I see are from Toyota.

Kinda on the fence between the Tacoma and 4Runner, and I was hoping I could grab some insight from anyone here on how life with a 4Runner is. I commute about 20 miles three days a week on the highway, with some long road trips here and there.

And also (incredibly dumb question), are there any issues that I should be aware of, should I buy a new 4Runner?

Thank you!

 

Unless you absolutely need a pickup bed, the 4Runner is a far better vehicle.

I commute 60 mi a day 5 days a week, and it's been great for that. Yes, they're are more efficient vehicles out there, but if you want something with decent space and off-road capability,, your choices are very limited.

That said, while I understand that you may be a little gun shy on another GM product, the new generation of the Colorado looks fantastic. I would definitely look hard at one of those before going to a Tacoma if you need a pickup. I would also take a look at the new Nissan Frontier over the Tacoma as well.

I drove a current gen Tacoma once, and I did not like it. Personally I think they're very overrated.

 

Honestly, I've used the bed on my Colorado maybe a handful of times over the time I've owned it. I don't necessarily need a pickup, just something high off the ground with 4WD (NY winters...). The Colorado was the best option back when I got it, so that's why I was checking out the Tacoma. Honestly, I was a little impressed with the Tacoma when I test drove it, but I have a feeling I'm going to like the 4Runner if I take it for a spin...

Thanks!

 

I just bought a 4R.... came from a Tacoma. I wasn't impressed with the Tacoma. It was ok but I didn't love it. The biggest complaint I had with it was the way the trans seem to always want to shift in higher gear too soon.... even at lower rpm. I live in Oregon with a lot of elevation changes and it's most noticable then. I absolutely love the 4R. It drives so much better and the interior space is more usable compared to the Tacoma. I would use the bed here and there so not worth it to me but your case might be different. The 4R certainly has some quirks on its own but more then happy with it.

 

Welcome!

I hope you find what you’re looking for …

 

Welcome from Wisconsin!

 

Wellcome from Arizona!

 

Welcome. Coming to 4runner from Taco. My input would be to agree with the theory from above......do you actually NEED the bed.

Beyond that 4runner had more room and versatility.

 

I have both a 2017 taco and a 2020 4R. The 4R in my opinion seems to give us the best of both worlds. However, the Taco gives us better mpg and it seems to me like it is easier to drive and maneuver around. It really depends what you need your vehicle for. Good luck!

 

Yeah I’ve heard that with the shifting. My Colorado has an 8-speed, but that even hesitates to downshift when it’s chugging at 1000rpm. Honestly if the 6-speed is more reliable, that’s all I need to know XD. I’m seriously considering both, but the only thing that’s probably holding me back from the 4R is the $10K price difference…

 

That’s interesting how you think the Taco is easier to drive around. I would have thought it was the other way around!

I haven’t test driven a 4Runner yet, but I probably will soon. How is the ride compared with both the Taco and 4R? I’m conflicted between the Tacoma Limited and 4Runner TRD Pro

 

I found the 4r to be a better driving experience. For reference, I had a 20 Tacoma off road....now a 23 4rOR non premium. I do have kdss....so that may be a factor. The 4r to me seems more nimble and responsive at the wheel.

 

Yeah I could understand that with the shorter wheelbase. Is the 4rOR a decent enough truck? The thing is, I really would prefer the 360 camera, but to spend another $10K on the TRD Pro vs the OR Premium for it is kinda insane...

 

For a truck replacement, it depends. A capable truck will be better at towing and hauling in the bed. So you have to buy what best suits your needs. With my Tacoma I didn't need those things and the 4r suits me better. I have younger kids and the back seat of the 4r is way better for them then the Tacoma. And it is very capable off road which is important to me where I live. Having things in the back enclosed vs a truck bed was another bonus.

Yeah, spending 10k for a trim for one or 2 options isn't best value. The only thing I miss from the OR premium is heated steering wheel. Otherwise, none of the premium options interested me. Decisions, decisions....

 

Welcome from the center of the bourbon universe.

 

Welcome from Texas.

 

I really looked the Canyon Denali and loved the looks but could not get past the bad reviews and GM quality.

The 4R should be great for you except be aware of rust and if you get one make sure you fluid film the frame (or similar every year). In NY state I am sure you get the salt like the rest of us in the midwest. I think will love a 4R and it holds it value much better than any GM product so if you don't like it you are more likely to not lose as much upon trade in.

 

I came from a 2017 Canyon Diesel. The trans had to be rebuilt at 62K-so glad it was a CPO warranty til 100K or I would have been out $6 grand. I do like the new Canyon but I usually dont like buying year 1 of a new generation.

 

Yeah I saw left over 22 Canyon V6 models with what was listed as retro fit 4.20 axle; I debated getting one as extra vehicle but nobody could tell me what exactly this means. Maybe they built the truck without that axle at first. I just could not justify taking a risk.

Its too bad really personally I like the look of the Canyon and ride better than the Tacoma, it just seems better built on the outside, nicer bed liner, heavier doors etc but with all the engine tranny issues I could not take the risk.

Having said that I love my 4R and the Canyon would have been an extra vehicle to replace an Accord.

I think you will really love a 4R, i have only had mine since 2021 but the engine and tranny have a great reputation

 

Main problem: They are ADDICTIVE!!!

I would say, look at which you use, or would use, more: a truck or an SUV.