egs21

Thanks guys. I actually looked at the GX for my wife as she is wanting to get a SUV. The biggest drawback to those is the gas mileage is terrible (even for a SUV). I've been reading that people are getting 12 miles per gallon or so on a regular basis (I assume mostly city driving). I also was not a fan of the 2nd row seats as they sit sort of high up and didn't feel comfortable. The third row seats are pretty useless but it looks like you can take them out. The air ride suspension repair costs scared me as well. I was thinking the 4Runner as it is similar but doesn't have some of the high cost repair issues? Although gas mileage on the 4Runner may not be much better.

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

Gas mileage would be about the same if you got the V8, from what i remember the V6 was only 2-3 MPG better. I'll be honest though, the GX is way more comfortable and I don't see many problems with GX470 suspensions, there are a few, but not a ton.

gsbs300

Eg do you find yourself needing full time awd or do you think 4x4 would do. Cause like you said gas mileage is horrible with awd (lx,Gx,landcruiser,not so much 4 gen runners).
If you think all time awd is over kill.id say the 4th gen runner and if you need the 3rd row id go 1st gen sequoia 4x4 have you given that some thought?gx are nice but too nice to be rugged.

egs21

Either one is fine with me. Just needing something that can handle snow in the winter. It seems like a GX with comparable miles is about $5k more than a similar 4Runner in my area. Doesn't really seem worth. You get the 3rd row seat in the GX, but it is practically useless in my opinion and it doesn't even fold flat. 4Runner seems like the better value enough that you don't get the same "luxury feel".

There is a 2005 Sport Edition 4Runner with 74,000 for sale via private party on craigslist for $16,000. That seems like a pretty good deal. One owner vehicle that looks to be in really good condition.

gsbs300

That does sound like a nice deal v6 or v8

egs21

This 4Runner has the V6 engine which is all we would need as we don't do any towing.

I'm taking the GS300 into my mechanic next week to have the ball joints done as a pre-caution. Will also have him inspect the tie rods and control arms. Hoping the avoid the control arms as the car drives fine and I can't imagine it would need more than just the ball joints. I wish I had the time to do this myself, but I have a 7 month old baby at home that keeps me plenty busy. Assuming the car checks out ok, I think I will just keep it and look at a SUV for my wife.

egs21

Just talked to my mechanic and he said the control arms rarely need to be replaced and its typically just the ball joints and possibly the tie rods needing replaced. Taking my car in next Tuesday to get it done just for peace of mind.

jjbenzo

Always loved Toyota's 4runner. My favorite would be the second and third generations. We had bought a 4runner Limited new back in 99. Fantastic vehicle. I think if you are able to find a good used 4runner with service records showing it's been maintained and with decent millage, it would be a great all around family vehicle. If your budget allows, I have noticed Toyota offering decent deals on the refreshed 14 4Runner, that way you get brand new and under warranty.

Riksgs808

iTrader: (2)

As for the 04 and up 4runners, the V6 gets more like 18 mpg, not 12....