2019 4Runner, quick thoughts after 600 miles, before I forget what the Tacoma was like

"Nothing" (nothingatalluseful)
12/18/2018 at 17:05 • Filed to: None

Almost two weeks ago, I replaced my perfectly functional 2015 Tacoma DoubleCab TRD Sport 4x4 (Toyota should make that name a little longer) with a 2019 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premium. Here are some quick thoughts after putting a couple of tanks of gas through it.

The 4Runner, in SR5 Premium trim comes with such goodies as SofTex (pleather) heated seats, Entune Premium with Navigation, etc, etc. It has a few features that were unavailable on the Tacoma...all 4 windows are one touch down/up windows. It also has the awesome, but dust inhaling power sliding rear window. Installed options are running boards, moonroof, third row, and the overpriced OEM floormats. So that’s what my 4Runner has, now it’s time to get into the feels.

The first feeling? The doors. They’re big, they’re heavy, and they open wide. It’s quite a change. There’s a heft and solid feeling to the 4Runner that the Tacoma lacked. The Tacoma didn’t feel cheap, but was definitely more utilitarian in nature.

Overall, the 4Runner is more comfortable in nearly every aspect. Remember, I’m comparing this to a pickup whose design dates back 13 years. Focusing first on the interior, there’s more room in most areas. One that is lacking is additional storage. I utilized the underseat and behind seat storage available in the Tacoma. No such additional storage exists in the 4Runner. Sure, there’s a giant cargo area, but that’s not where I want to keep jumper cables, for example. There isn’t any cargo area subfloor storage. The Tacoma wins the battle for places to shove small items that you don’t want to keep loose.

From the driver’s seat, visibility is better than in the Tacoma. I sit higher, and the greenhouse seems airier. That might be aided by the moonroof, but overall, I like it. Even three and a half years in, I still toyed with the seat in the Tacoma a bit, mainly because the telescoping when didn’t telescope enough. In the 4Runner, it feels like it has an extra inch or two of movement. The seats are also more comfy for me. If there’s one thing I don’t like about the ergonomics, the heat temperature control is set way to the right, and even for me at 6’4” with a long reach, it’s a stretch to turn that dial. I can see the benefit of the optional dual zone climate control, as the dial near the driver (which is the fan speed control in lesser models) is the temperature control.

Rear seat legroom is a vast improvement over the Tacoma. I can sit behind me, and if a little extra room is needed, the second row seats can recline. This is high on the list for reasons to trade the truck. Comfier back seat for my son, including the center console mounted heat a/c vents, makes for a happier kid.

Here are a couple of pictures of me sitting behind me.

Interior thoughts out of the way (I’ve discussed the third row !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! ), I’ll touch on performance a little bit. The 4Runner also has a 4.0 V6, but it musters up a few more ponies than the Tacoma (dual VVT-i vs VVT-i). The extra hp is nice (as well as the modest MPG gains over the Taco), but when it comes to motivating the 4Runner, that power has to push quite a bit of extra heft around (4425lbs vs 4675). The 4Runner, to me, feels slower than the Tacoma. Some of that may be perception, the cabin in the 4Runner is significantly quieter than the Tacoma. Without babying the throttle, I’m averaging 19.1 MPG (calculated, not using the trip computer on the 4Runner)

When it comes to handling, the 4Runner also has quite a bit more body lean, which has taken some getting used to. While the lean is something to get used to, the comfort isn’t. It rides much smoother, with much less NVH than the Tacoma. As well it should, we’re talking SUV vs unladen pickup. But again, that’s part of the reason I traded in the truck, it was used to cart around hockey gear 99.9% of the time. The bed served me well for the times I truly did need it, which became less and less often over the last year or so. I’m probably better served renting a pickup when needed, or (more likely) buying an old beater/project to have around for both hobby and utility purposes.

Overall, I’m very pleased with the new ride, it does exactly what I want and need it to do, which is haul 4 people and their hockey junk in reasonable comfort. I already know we’ll be putting the third row to use during my son’s birthday party and when family is in town in a couple of weeks.

DISCUSSION (44)

shop-teacher > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 17:11

Any bets on how long you'll keep this one?

LimitedTimeOnly @ opposite-lock.com > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 17:24

I was just configuring/exploring the idea of a 2019 TRD Off-Road with the KDSS in considering an alternate lifestyle where work and play required more off-road capability from my personal vehicle.

I balk at the “lean” and the fuel economy for a daily driver if I wasn’t taking it off-road much. You are averaging only 1 mpg more than I got on my old Ranger, which at the end of my ownership drove me nuts since I wasn’t doing truck things any more.

What made you choose the 4Runner versus something unibody with better handling and fuel economy?

BeaterGT > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 17:24

Kinda surprised by the lack of storage options in the back . There’s so much room for opportunity!

InFierority Complex > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 17:34

It’s bugging me that I know exactly where the top picture was taken, but also have know idea where either... if that’s possible.

Nothing > LimitedTimeOnly @ opposite-lock.com
12/18/2018 at 17:36

I can admit to being a Toyota fanboi. I considered a Durango, but wanted to maintain some off road ability. Factory off road capable list of new 3 row SUVs in my price range is remarkably small. I considered used GX460s, and various generations of Land Cruisers, but in the end, decided on the 4Runner.

I would’ve loved to get the Off Road with KDSS, if they offered a third row in that configuration. The KDSS apparently helps quite a bit with the lean.

Also keep in mind, that 19MPG is probably 90% city, 10% hwy. Its on par with my wife’s Grand Cherokee with the 8 spd tranny, which is a similar city/Hwy split.

Nothing > shop-teacher
12/18/2018 at 17:42

Forever! It’ll be paid for in two years, which is well within my attention span. My real hope is 9 years, which is definitely forever in my book. Keep it, kid inherits it, wife and I will be empty nesters, so we can consolidate to 1 practical and 1 less practical vehicle.

Nothing > BeaterGT
12/18/2018 at 17:43

It surprised me. There are two small cubbies that I’ve fit some tie down straps, but my vintage (my dad’s old) jumper cables I don’t think I can get in anywhere. They are thick/gauge and heavy sheathing.

LimitedTimeOnly @ opposite-lock.com > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 17:44

Okay, so I understand you to be saying that you will actually use the off-road capability, which makes other compromises worth it. I’m not a Toyota fan-boy, but if I needed to pick a vehicle to go to rough places but still be acceptable on the road , this seems like the best option available new today. Fortunately I wouldn’t need a 3rd row.

Great write-up, by the way. Enjoy the new vehicle!

Nothing > LimitedTimeOnly @ opposite-lock.com
12/18/2018 at 17:48

Correct. Without wanting a third row, I would’ve gone with a JL, most likely.

Nothing > InFierority Complex
12/18/2018 at 17:51

Some trailhead right off Valmont. I forget the name without looking it up. But you made perfect sense to me.

SilentButNotReallyDeadly...killed by G/O Media > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 18:10

I have often wondered why Toyota continues to persist with the oddly styled Prado in the RoW as opposed to the more conventional, truckly styled 4Runner when they use much the same platform.

On appearance alone, I suspect that here in Oz the 4 Runner would be more popular than Prado ... even more so with the Prado’s diesel driveline. And it’s bigger than the Fortuner so it’d sit fine in the range...

shop-teacher > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 18:28

I feel like I’ve heard that story before ;)

random001 > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 20:31

This is a good take. I think, if I can drive the Montero through two winters without it blowing up on me, I might look into the 4Runners. I like the way they look. They seem reliable, because Toyota. Big enough for the family, comfy, capable. Seems like a winning proposition, to me.

Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo > Nothing
12/18/2018 at 23:07

Nice. Sounds like t he 4Runner definitely seems to satisfy your needs/wants better than the Taco at this stage in your life. Actually, as you continue to age, I’m sure it will only further suit your needs (more kids social life, eventual grandchildren, more family visiting, long-distance trips, etc.)

Being a bit of a creeper, you have a nice home and a well-kept property, so a pickup has even less utility, when you consider the infrequency of, uh, utilization. Then again, you could always get a small trailer if you cared enough.

Nothing > Dr. Zoidberg - RIP Oppo
12/18/2018 at 23:37

It does, I did like the Taco, the 4Runner just fits better right now. I’m at a point where if we’re buying something large (appliances, furniture, etc), I’ll just get it delivered instead of muscling it around myself. And if it ends up we’re really missing having a truck, I’ll hunt down a Tundra, maybe a T100 to fill the void. Or since a 5’ bed worked on the Taco, I could go with something nuttier, like a CJ8 Scrambler. That sounds like too much work, though.

Catware > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 02:18

The Tacoma was completely redesigned for model year 2016. Comparing a 2019 4runner to a 2015 Tacoma is trying to sway what type of buyer?

CommGuy > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 07:52

I went from my trusty 14yo F150 Supercrew to a 4Runner Limited and couldn’ t be happier. We moved from AZ to DC AND I’m no longer towing a boat, ATVs, or yard stuff . If your intended use is mostly commuting with a chance of trails, camping, snow, etc., the Limited is a great choice as it has far less body roll with the XREAS suspension system and overall more comfortable than the SR5 . However, the Ltd 20” wheels add a little more stiffness to the sidewall over the 17”. It’s all a give/take depending on your budget and intended purpose. I still own a 2004 SR5 with 250K+ miles and hope to keep this 4R Ltd just as long.

Nothing > Catware
12/19/2018 at 08:48

I’m not trying to sway anyone, I’m comparing two vehicles I owned. Feel free to move on.

Nothing > shop-teacher
12/19/2018 at 08:57

More than 1 year, less than ten! Ha!

Mike Macias > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 08:59

Im almost in the same boat. Have a 2006 Tacoma that we use as a family vehicle for our two small kids and dog. The 4runner looks like a better daily driver. But... We go on a lot of adventures to the desert, mountains, and beach. Throwing bikes, scooters, coolers, dog stuff in the bed of my truck has been awesome, especially not having to organize or clean stuff (until we get home). My wife loves this setup we currently have to, although we have our eye on the 4runner all the time. Also! We are a hockey family as well and having that gear separate from the cab has been amazing. P.S. I have a softopper so it's a really useful cargo area for us, not just an open exposed bed. Thanks for the article.

Nothing > CommGuy
12/19/2018 at 09:01

I debated the Limited, I probably should’ve driven one. I feel the handling characteristics are just SUV vs truck, and could be addressed somewhat if I wanted to. I hope to keep this one a long time, but given my history, anything over 3 years is an eternity!

Nothing > random001
12/19/2018 at 09:12

So far so good for me! I figure, in typical Toyota fashion, I bought a new, nearly 10 year old car. It should have all the bugs, if they ever had any, worked out. I’ve always liked them, an old roomie had a third gen then we took all over the place.

shop-teacher > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 09:20

I’m setting the over under at .... 21 months.

random001 > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 09:34

With the gas mile age was a bit higher, but you can’t get everything. Still better than the Montero.

random001 > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 09:39

Wish, not with...

Nothing > Mike Macias
12/19/2018 at 10:35

Without even having the need, I already miss having a pickup, so I can see getting one as a third vehicle in the somewhat near future. Thankfully, my son is just turning 9, so his gear isn’t in full nuclear stink mode yet, but I’m not looking forward to sharing interior space with that gear when it does!

Nothing > shop-teacher
12/19/2018 at 10:36

Ooh, just three months before I pay it off. I’ve never paid off a new vehicle, so it’ll be interesting to see if I can get to that point on this one.

Nothing > random001
12/19/2018 at 10:39

I wish it was better as well. It’s at least a little better than the Tacoma. I’m curious what the next road trip will be, since the first couple of fill ups have been mostly city driving

Mike Macias > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 10:43

That's what I would do as well. I've always wanted to build up an old beater pickup. Maybe a 4wd 1st Tacoma extended cab to have the 6ft bed. Just drive it for wheelin, hauling stuff, and general badassness

random001 > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 10:47

I am also curious.

Brian > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 10:50

I’ve owned a 1993 4runner (12yrs) and now in a 2005 4runner limited (13yrs) . Both purchased new and were great cars. Id get another 4runner in a second, but i feel like the 2019 model is 8 years old already. The exterior lin es are nice, but the interior looks dated, and doesnt offer the same options that cars today have on board. My 2005 even has a bigger GPS screen than todays model. And enough with the battlestar-gallactica AC switches

T he current Taco has a much nicer interior. Waitimg patiently for the 2020 spy photos.... otherwise gonna jump ship and try something else for a bit.

Nothing > Brian
12/19/2018 at 10:59

I hear ya. I like having a new old car, and at least the stereo/nav is what I already had in the Taco. The offeri ngs for Off Road three row SUVs are pretty slim for new vehicles.

shop-teacher > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 11:24

Haha! I'm going to laugh so hard if my prediction comes true!

Just Jeepin' > random001
12/19/2018 at 12:31

How is the Montero doing? Will you be ready for a spring ride?

random001 > Just Jeepin'
12/19/2018 at 13:38

I believe so, yes! It’s running well, all back together. I need to clean up some paint issues, and clear out some surface rust before it gets bad, but that should all be done soon.

jasmits > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 14:03

I keep a shocking amount of stuff under and behind the seats in my Taco. Jumper cables, tie downs, a first aid kit, a blanket, a tarp, chains for all four wheels , my recovery bag with a folding shovel, a snatch strap, a couple shackles and a receiver hitch shackle adapter and more I’m forgetting. It’s a really underrated convenience.

Nero > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 14:15

I really loved my 2016 4 Runner limited for almost every reason you described. However, some of the issues I had with the vehicle was t he lack of pick up and the sloppy handling .

I did a lot of highway driving and some of the weather c onditions and traffic on ramps were a challenge for the 4 Runner, especially the braking with that well known issue of locking wheels. Very scary stuff.

Truly , t he 4runner needs an update at this point. I mean Toyota can put new clothes on it every couple of years, but it’s the same underneath and that's some hard riding for a driver.

Nothing > jasmits
12/19/2018 at 15:09

I did too! Now I have a pile of stuff on the garage floor that I’m trying to figure out how and where I can make it fit.

Nothing > Nero
12/19/2018 at 15:15

The good news for me is that I at least don’t have a work commute. And once we’re done with this hockey season, we won’t have a billet kid to commute to and from school. I’ll be back down to my regular 5k/yr or so, unless I start taking some decent road trips, which isn’t out of the question.

I agree, the 4Runner can use an update by now. My wife’s 5 year older Grand Cherokee definitely beats in in the “updated” department, but I do appreciate the truck-ness of the 4Runner. And the long in the tooth design sure makes it easy for aftermarket companies to come up with large for them!

jasmits > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 16:06

I used the smallest one of these in the 2nd gen 4Runner I had before my Tacoma

http://www.rubbermaid.com/en-US/actionpacker%C2%AE

M.T. Blake > Nothing
12/19/2018 at 17:16

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

I agree with this 100%. After transitioning from my G35, it felt like the 4Runner was going to tip over. I don’t notice it anymore after owning mine for the last 4 months. It even felt top heavy compared to the old 12-valve Cummins.

Does yours get the intermittent steering wheel shake at highway speeds? Mine is all over the board. Apparently its a Toyota issue...

Alexf > random001
12/19/2018 at 20:55

I have a 2015 4 runner limited. Suspension is a bit quiet than the sr5. In addition, 1.5 inch hub extenders and using Michelin tundra size tires (21 inch ri ms) m ade for a lot less body roll, and better stability. Counterpoint. You get some hub fender interference while doing reverse at low speeds, but perfect for normal driving. You also loose about one mpg in fuel economy but I feel is an acceptable trade for better stability a firmer ride. BESIDES THE TRUCK LOOKS AWESOME!. Tires are 1/4 inch wider than truck width and get no more spalsh than normal configuration.

random001 > Alexf
12/19/2018 at 20:57

Thanks! We need pictures!

Nothing > M.T. Blake
12/20/2018 at 16:02

No steering wheel shake that I’ve experienced yet, thankfully.

I figure I’ll get used to the lean, it’s just a more top heavy vehicle than the truck was. It’s kinda funny, the longest term vehicle I’ve owned was an SUV. I can’t believe it’s taken me 18 years to by another (the crapwagon projects I’ve had don’t count).

I’m really happy with it, which is good, since I’ve only had the 4Runner for two weeks, now!