4Runner or Cherokee Trailhawk

In New Mexico, the choice is red or green!

Going back to Gallup this summer=gotta get an Indian Taco @ Earles with green chile!

 

I also had a Toyota pickup and loads of other Matchbox classics. They were great.Then my brother “acquired” them when I left home for college. And he won’t give them back.

 

I've recently started building dioramas (see my pix above), using Matchbox, Hot Wheels, Johnny Lightning, etc. Most are cars of special importance to me: my 4WDs, my uncle's cars and shop (He was a designer for Mickey Thompson and there was ALWAYS a slingshot dragster or funny car in his garage), Route 66, my buddy's 51 Ford surf mobile (He died my 2nd year in college),etc.

 

The Trailhawk will have better tech, likely better on-road driving characteristics, and maybe even better "off-road" driving characteristics (unmodified to unmodified depending on severity of terrain). The Trailhawk will likely get much better fuel economy as well.

The 5th gen 4Runner is a dinosaur that has been out since 2010 and honestly didn't change much from the 4th gen before that. It gets bad fuel economy and isn't up to latest tech standards.

But that's one reason why a lot of enthusiasts like it- it's simple, it's tried and true with the capabilities that it is known for. For some of us, the aftermarket availability is valuable as well for upgrading. I for one didn't care about technology, I almost didn't want any, and while my 2020 has quite a lot, it's basically archaic compared to some modern vehicles and I love it! With modifications I get like 15-17mpg.

I think some people were put off by your original message because to an enthusiast that's an apples to oranges comparison: unibody IFS/IRS CUV with tech vs body on frame older classic SUV SRA/IFS with more off-road oriented owners. Like comparing a Wrangler to a Cherokee, but the 4Runner is somewhere in between maybe.

 

Don't fix it's not broke!!!!

 

The 4Runner has a much better reliability record, but the Cherokee is a much better ride.
If you could buy a grand Cherokee with the V8, then you would have a fantastic vehicle, even with a better mpg than the 4Runner. I have one and no problems after 65,000 miles. The ride is way above the 4Runner and the trailhawk has plenty of off-roading capabilities as well.
I totally agree with the 4R superior reliability, but I was turned down by the difference of comfort and performance. Besides that I have life time bumper to bumper on my grand Cherokee.

 

I asked ChatGPT. Here is what it said.

It's ultimately up to you to decide which vehicle is the best fit for your needs and preferences. Both the Toyota 4Runner and the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk are capable SUVs that offer a range of features and capabilities. Here are a few things to consider when deciding between the two:

• Performance: The 4Runner is available with a V6 engine that delivers strong acceleration and towing capacity, while the Cherokee Trailhawk comes with a V6 or a four-cylinder turbo engine.
• Off-road capabilities: The Trailhawk is equipped with features like a raised suspension, all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential, which give it strong off-road capabilities. The 4Runner also has good off-road capabilities, with a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and available features like crawl control and a multi-terrain select system.
• Interior and features: Both the 4Runner and the Cherokee offer comfortable, well-equipped interiors with a range of available features, such as touchscreen infotainment systems, heated seats, and advanced safety technologies.
• Price: The 4Runner and the Cherokee have similar starting prices, but the 4Runner may have a slightly higher price tag due to its larger size and more powerful engine options.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's a good idea to test drive both vehicles and consider factors like your budget, the type of driving you do, and any specific features or capabilities you need.