When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I've visited CL frequently over the years to look for information regarding my 06 LS 430. My LS has been an incredibly reliable vehicle. I've had virtually no repair costs beyond routine care other than some suspension work. I'm now at new point in my life (early retirement) and have been exploring different vehicles to get me from Texas to frequent outdoor adventures in Colorado and beyond. This has led me to the GX forum.
I'm looking for a used vehicle for extended camping trips and general exploring in the Rockies. I don't plan on doing any rock crawling but will be traveling forest and blm roads for remote camping and fishing. The obvious choice would be a 4runner but the 4wd trims are more expensive than used GXs. Right now I'm looking at a 2013 GX 460 with 100K mile for about $23K. Also, I'll be logging a lot of highway miles and I've been spoiled by the serenity and comfort of my Lexus.
My questions:
1. The GX 460 has plenty of off-road capability so why wouldn't I go with a used one over a 4runner?
2. Obviously maintenance costs will be higher for the GX. I have a good indy mechanic who will let me buy my own parts. Are there any big issues with a used (2010-15) GX that I should be concerned about?
I've visited CL frequently over the years to look for information regarding my 06 LS 430. My LS has been an incredibly reliable vehicle. I've had virtually no repair costs beyond routine care other than some suspension work. I'm now at new point in my life (early retirement) and have been exploring different vehicles to get me from Texas to frequent outdoor adventures in Colorado and beyond. This has led me to the GX forum.
I'm looking for a used vehicle for extended camping trips and general exploring in the Rockies. I don't plan on doing any rock crawling but will be traveling forest and blm roads for remote camping and fishing. The obvious choice would be a 4runner but the 4wd trims are more expensive than used GXs. Right now I'm looking at a 2013 GX 460 with 100K mile for about $23K. Also, I'll be logging a lot of highway miles and I've been spoiled by the serenity and comfort of my Lexus.
My questions:
1. The GX 460 has plenty of off-road capability so why wouldn't I go with a used one over a 4runner?
2. Obviously maintenance costs will be higher for the GX. I have a good indy mechanic who will let me buy my own parts. Are there any big issues with a used (2010-15) GX that I should be concerned about?
Thanks for any thoughts!
GX is a V8 while the 4runner is a V6. If you are not going to modify it much, you will see better MPG with the 4runner. Plus the 4runner runs on regular unleaded fuel while the GX requires premium unleaded. So on top of getting worse MPG the GX also requires more expensive fuel. As you've already mentioned, basic oil changes will cost you a little more. And I don't know how you feel about the rear barn door on the GX. I previously owned a 4runner so I am still getting used to mine.
I traded my 17 4Runner SR5 for a 19 GX Premium. Yes the 4Runner is more customizable but I don't really care since I'm not building a mall crawler.
Just finished a 7 day 2400 mile road trip and the GX's ride and comfort is way better. Averaged around 20.4 mpg even thru Montana and Idaho going 80-85.
The 4 Runner felt under powered in the mountains, the GX hardly notices them. I also prefer the side opening door over the hatch since I'm tall and was hitting my head on it
I guess one thing you can count on is that the GX is getting more popular. As this happens the more aftermarket you will see. JCR Offroad a JEEP aftermarket company has opened Victory4x4. I went to Slee Offroad in Colorado and they told me the same thing. They are working on GX bumpers etc etc. I like the 4R however I think the GX has more room especially rear passenger space. That did it for me. I have a 13 Gx460 with 33K on the dial. I love it, but I still have my Wrangler. I love my garage....
If you have a model with 3-zone HVAC there is another heater core and another AC evaporator in the rear right passenger area. I don't think 4R can be ordered with 3rd zone.
1. for your plans there arent any reasons
2. main 3 to look for: valley leak, airbag, secondary air system.
Ive had both 4runners and GX. Price was the only thing the 4runner had going for it in the past. doesnt seem to apply much anymore
the v8, smoother ride, better features for me make this no contest
If you have a model with 3-zone HVAC there is another heater core and another AC evaporator in the rear right passenger area. I don't think 4R can be ordered with 3rd zone.
No, the 4R cannot be ordered with rear air - the reason that I took the 4R off my list.
If you're going to compare the 4R to the GX, then you need to compare the Limited to the GX - Full time AWD and most decent on-road manners.
4runner LIMITED has full-time 4wd....but no KDSS and no CRAWL. Thus, i skipped 4runner Limited. The “lesser” and off-road oriented 4runners have KDSS and CRAWL, but no full-time 4wd.
4runner LIMITED has full-time 4wd....but no KDSS and no CRAWL. Thus, i skipped 4runner Limited. The “lesser” and off-road oriented 4runners have KDSS and CRAWL, but no full-time 4wd.
GX is the best of both worlds.
KDSS is only available on a few versions - not all. The Limited has a different suspension system (X-REAS), that, for most purposes, works like KDSS for on-road purposes.
Agree with the bolded part of course. Unless you want to go strictly offroad
09-08-19, 09:07 AM
GX 460 - Adventure Vehicle?
