4WD Tacoma vs 4WD 4 Runner

Hello Forum,

I currently bave an '08 PreRunner. My next vehicle purchase will , most likely, be a 4WD Tacoma or 4 Runner. Either vehicle will suit my cargo/towing needs.

I know that the 4 Runner has a manual shifter (better? More reliable?) & the Tacoma has a knob, or dial.

I've noticed some complaints with the Tacomas 4WD system (doesn't engage, ADD not working, front driveline vibes when lifting as little as 1.75"'s) & am wondering if the 4 Runners have the same issues?

Thank you.

 

how much newer of a 4 runner or tacoma are you thinking of?

 

the 4th gen 4runner is a lot like the 05+ Tacomas, very similar if not the same front end suspension. now if you get a newer 4 runner, i can't help you.

 

My wife has a new trail 4Runner and I say its all what you need they are both great trucks.

 

Thanks for the info so far.

I apologize for not specifying.

2013/2015 4 Runner (don't know what generation that is)

2013/2015 Tacoma 4.0 V6.

 

^yes to these, especially the rear coils. i never knew how bad my truck was till i rode in my friend's 09 4runner.

 

I looked at both and went with the tacoma cause it was $10k cheaper, better visibility, better aftermarket, better cargo space, and lighter. Worse quality tho for sure.

 

i think aftermarket part availability is equal.

 

Not the year you're looking for but my 02 (3rd gen) T4R sport 4x4 is awesome. They're both great, I've had both and I like the 4Runner way more

 

If you want to get specific it is actually 4,700 lbs for the 4Runner vs. 6,500lbs with the tow package on the Tacoma.

 

Some definitely still have the manual lever.

Curiously, next to that picture in the 4Runner gallery is this one. Not sure what they're trying for there. Maybe implying that the ladies will see your 4Runner key and will be very impressed?

Sadly, I don't think that works with our Tacoma keys. They'd see mine and think I drive something 15 years old because no other 2011 vehicle would have a separate key and fob.

 

I had a 2010 Trail Edition. I liked it until the entire rear door electronic systems stopped working - hatch release, wiper, defroster, window down and dealer wanted $1500 to install a complete new wiring harness that is above the headliner. Traded for this Tacoma. Much happier.

 

Straight across trade? Or trade + cash for the Tacoma?

 

Thanks for the info so far.

Now that I know that both trucks have the ADD Actuator I see that the only difference between the two is the selector.

From the little bit that I've read on that, the sole purpose of that part is to engage the axle via a fork. If that part fails, can't it just be locked into place?

 

I have a '10 4Runner SR5 and I had a '11 Tacoma DCSB and hands down, the 4Runner was/is my favorite. The ride is better, more power, more MPG and is funner to drive. If a truck wasn't an absolute necessity for me, I would have a 4Runner.

As for the lever in the 4wd, the '10 has one in the SR5, not a dial. I think that changed in the 2013 model year.

 

My dad has a 14 trail edition and it beats the Tacoma in terms of off road capability and ride comfort. I'd go si the 4Runner over the Tacoma any day. But I have my Tacoma so I guess will keep it until it dies lol.

 

This was mine:



The Tacoma has many more aftermarket items and is cheaper to maintain and is a less complicated vehicle.

Current:



With the 4Runner, you don't want to put odor emitting items in the back btw...gas cans, chainsaw, firewood, etc.

 

If you don't need to have a truck bed go with the 4runner. It's a better vehicle in pretty much every way. My wife has a '12 4runner and I have a '14 TRD off road tacoma and her 4runner is light years ahead of the taco. Better ride, more power, more comfortable seats, quieter interior, better sound system, better (and more) creature comforts, etc...

 

You could always swap out to the FJ transfer case for under a grand if that is a big deal.

 

That's what some of my 4WD friends tell me.

Good to know.

Well, the 4Runner also has a shorter wheelbase which is better for off-roading.

Both look good and both are my favorite colors.
Good point on the option of having a bed. Why do you say the 4 Runner is more complicated? More options so more things to break?

Yeah. The 4 Runner does excel in those things.

True. I did read about that somewhere.

When I do purchase the Tacoma or 4 Runner they will most likely be new so they'll obviously have warranty. Just thinking long term since I do drive a lot.

So, just to have my facts clear:
Tacoma, 4 Runner, & FJ all have ADD actuators,
Tacoma has a dial to select 4WD,
4 Runner & FJ have manual selectors for 4WD,
The ADD can be "clamped" into it's engage position permanently making one less breaking point in the whole system, like the manual trans FJ which does NOT have an ADD actuator.