Purple18

Hello

Newb here. Looking at the Lexus GX470 or a 4Runner V8.
We want a vehicle for camping and overlanding. Pulling a 5,000# camper. Im having a difficult time finding 4runners without rusty frames. Does the gx have similar issues with rust? Looking 2007-2009 for both trucks. I would like KDSS, in theory it sounds good but I have no experience with it.

captainva

iTrader: (1)

The GX and 4runner have the exact same frame to my knowledge. Also as far as KDSS, its great and the truck will handle a LOT better on road and offroad you have a lot more articulation. Just keep in mind that if anything breaks on the KDSS its very expensive and there is less aftermarket support for upgrades. Replacement of the shock mount on one corner for the KDSS is around $1200 for just the part. Make sure that you do your research on whether KDSS is worth it to you or not from a cost perspective

ASE

Had a 2005 Toyota 4-Runner V8 and a 2008 Lexus GX470 at the same time. Both were excellent, with the Lexus obviously being more luxurious with less wind and road noise given the extra soundproofing ... but at the cost of additional weight. If I was blindfolded, the 4-Runner was the better driver given the better power-to-weight-ratio with the suspension slightly firmer for improved handling. My biggest issue with the Lexus was that the stock suspension is set up to where the driver has no connection with the road ... way too vague for my preference.

MrJason

The GX470 is probably your better option for towing and such. But the 4Runner is more sporty feeling. I own a 2005 GX470 and a 2005 4Runner limited.

I like the GX for the headroom and cabin size(I’m 6’7” tall). The GX is way more comfortable for long distance driving. The 4Runner is more fun to drive on the street in daily, short commutes though.

TDC1

I was looking at both the GX and 4Runner as well. I decided on the GX. The GX definitely has more headroom as MrJason mentioned and better ride for daily driving. I'm sure the 4Runner outperforms the GX off road though.

MrJason

Im not so sure about that.....Year model for year model. The the 4 runner is more nimble and sporty for in town trips. The GX470 was rated very very well for off-road use.

I like my GX470 because of the room inside and the fact that I commute 160 miles a day(round trip)... it has a better highway ride for sure.

MrJason

But choosing the GX was the right choice in my opinion. I love this vehicle.