ourlee

Hello,

I need a tow vehicle and just expanded my search to a V8 limited 4runner. My wife doesn't dig the pathfinder or larger types so it's a GX or 4R. If i save the cash and buy an 08 V8 4runner limited, is there anything i'll miss out on in regards to the lexus? Anyone "upgrade" from a V8 4runner to a GX? I'd love to hear about it.

Also, the criminal service manager at Lawrence Lexus has never heard of a cracked dash in RXs and GXs, complete lie or possibly true? Left the dealer Friday with a lousy taste.

Thanks, Rick

ROK

-gx better tow vehicle with is rear air suspension

-gx will have a few more luxuries like rain sensing wipers, auto down/up all windows, wood steering wheel

-4r will keep value better cuz it's simpler to maintain (no rear air)

-gx feels more significant... it's a bit heavier and has a lot more sound deadening that you can't reproduce in the more "tin" like 4r (eg thicker windows)

-cracked dashes happen on the 4r as well

you can't go wrong with either, but given your towing needs, the gx wins hands down. just make sure to get an '05 and up.

Booyah

Agree hands down GX--extra money well spent

hypervish

I agree go with the GX.

I'll send you a PM regarding a Lexus dealership.

ourlee

Acknowledged : GX will be quieter and this is important to me.

Not agreeing about the towing. 4Runner tows 7300 lbs. air suspension is a fail for me because of the expensive repairs. I'd be installing an old man emu on either truck.

I'll be driving a few limited 4Runners Tuesday to get my own opinions together. I do love the GX but the value vs the 4runner is not overwhelming me just yet. Perhaps after a the test drives

MSGX470

I believe Rear air suspension was an option on Limited 4Runners, so look out for that. IMO the GX has better visibility sitting a little higher than the 4Runner.

ROK

i wouldn't discount the air suspension so quick. there's no question it provides a more comfortable, more versatile ride, thus the reason why so many luxury makers opt to outfit their trucks with them (land rover, merc, bmw, even the land cruiser).

old man emu and all that stuff inevitably ends up being a rougher, more truck like ride. maybe if you can full icon you can get some of the plushness back, but again, the gx is designed in every way to provide that luxury feel that the 4r can't touch.

Johnny Rad

How much more is the GX than the 4R?
How much $ are we talking about?

ourlee

08 GX is over $35 with certified 30k
08 4R is mid $20s with same.

Also, the 4runners are more plentiful, making negotiations easier.

ROK

you cannot get a clean '08 4r limited cpo or not for mid 20s. they're quite comparable in pricing used. anything less than a limited and the 4r feels econo-suv right quick.

ourlee

rok, you are looking at asking prices. apples to apples it's no less than a 7 grand difference.

SouthernSS

It really comes down to paying for the luxury or not. SInce they are both based on the same exact frame with the same exact engine and suspension components (except rear air), it comes down to: do you want to drive a Lexus or a Toyota.

You cant go wrong with either but, there is going to be a prestige that follows you around when you pull up to parties or campsites or what not if you pick the GX. Some people like that, others are embarrased by it.

Oh and if you get the GX, I wouldnt be so quick to trash the rear air. It makes towing WAAY more comfortable and capable with its auto load leveling. IF it breaks, then consider it, but dont throw the baby out with the bath water.

RickC5

Obviously, we're a bit biased toward the GX on this forum or we all would have bought something else. I drove a 2003 4Runner for about 18 months and got tired of it real quick. It was a V6 and got crappy mileage, plus it was noisy and had little room in the rear. Our GX gets better mileage than that 4Runner, is MUCH quieter, and has lots more room. Plus, we like the luxury appointments, the ML stereo & the NAV system.

You asked for some opinions and you got some. Buy whatever you wish.

ourlee

I appreciate your opinions, thanks.

Muti007

Sorry, but this "GX is hands down better for towing" is BS and some of you, especially one of you , should know better. Ourlee, you have it right.