The 4Runner really is the last of its kind

Just a thought I’ve had recently.

The 5th gen 4Runner really is the last “old school” traditional SUV out there. Body on frame construction, solid rear axle, part time 4x4 transfer case (limiteds withstanding), 31” tires from the factory, and a simple reliable N/A V6. Obviously, the platform dating back to 2010 has everything to do with it, but none the less.

All of its natural competitors can be optioned with turbocharged/hybrid setups, dual lockers, and 37s off the show room floor with a litany of modern era tech to go along with. Heck, even the traditional truck based SUVs like the suburban have long since done away with solid rear axles. I don’t think they offer a low range transfer case option any more (could be wrong there).

the only new vehicle I can think of that follows the 4Runners formula is the Nissan frontier, and that’s a truck.

While I’m sure we’re all looking forward to the 6th gen, it’s gonna be a bit bittersweet to see that old school era 4x4 that is the 5th gen finally retire.

 

It's nice to know that there will still be excellent examples of 5th Gens available on the used market FAR into the future.

 

They may be out there, but will a lot of people people be selling theirs? I know I won't. Those who are savvy will probably think long and hard about selling. But you're right - they'll be around for a long time.

 

Agreed. I don't plan on selling mine anytime soon. It will probably outlive me. I also think any NA vehicle is going to be harder to find in the future. That's why I'm secretly hoarding them. 5th Gen 4Runner, 1st Gen Tundra, and soon a Lexus RC-F or IS500.

 

I'm hoping to be there with you on the Lexus side in the future. Looking at having the ISF, GSF, and RCF. Now just have to wait to find the right ones.

 

Great minds think alike. Get a 2ur-GSE while you can. This solved my 4r doesn't have enough power itch. Different rides for different use cases.

 

A lot of 4Runner buyers are soccer moms and keyboard commandos who wanted the "overland" look that became fashionable since 2020. They don't care about the NA motor and the old school quality of the 5th gen, they will trade theirs in for the new "LC" soon enough once their warranty runs out.

 

how many of them will be in good shape, with unburned transmission, rust free, well maitained engine? I think 10% of all. and off road community kills many.

 

I won’t be selling any of my vehicles regardless of whether we purchase another. I recently learned a hard lesson by buying a first Gen Tacoma at nearly twice what I sold my Tacoma 6 years ago.

 

More for us.

 

Glass half full/glass half empty. They'll be around. I recently bought my rust free 2003 Tundra with 87,000 miles. Patience provides.

 

Nex gen will be 4 banger with option hybrid.

 

I don’t plan on selling mine 3 yo and under 2,000 miles and never seen rain let alone snow. But I am blessed as well. I’ve been the one debating buying another for everyday use. But my V6 Accord is still in great shape. Then I thought what about a Ridgeline V6 unibody I would think less suspect to Midwest rust. Truthfully I don’t need anything and even if I retire gosh I can’t see racking up that many miles soon. I just debate one last call.

 

Nope, I had no desire for a 6th Gen, that's why I didn't object to my daughter trading in her '22 Tacoma SR5 to get a '23 TRD ORP, and I traded in a '22 Explorer ST on a '23 Limited...

 

Exactly why I bought a 2020 Sr5p to drive when it’s crappy out and I want to keep the IS500 in the stable. I’ll keep my dinosaur engines going for a long time.