Well, I test drove a new 4Runner Limited V8 4WD the other day. It is a great truck. Drives very smooth, lots of great features. Get's me really excited for what the GX will be like. A fully loaded 4Runner Limited 4WD V8 runs around $41,000-42,000.
The power from the V8 felt strong and very linear. And it's the same engine/tranny as in the GX470, so that's good news! I really like the 4Runner, and am actually thinking about getting that now. It definitely looks best in Limited trim, so the fender flares are smooth and monotone with the rest of the paint. But I think I will wait until the GX come out to see that at least once.

 

I'm thinking the same thing as at this moment. I have a 1999 4Runner Limited and did not enjoy the ride and the power was too weak. Also the gas tank was so small that I found myself filling up on gas often.

Thanks for the update on your test drive of the 4runner. That V8 in that 4runner is most appealing and I can only imagine the smooth power it has. I am liking it very much.

The fully loaded 2003 4runner limited may not have all the bell and whistles like the GX, but the new V8 runner is still comparable and IMO looks sportier and sleeker then the bulkier GX, which still looks great. You can even get the X-Reas sport suspension as an option to get an even sportier ride.

Also with the NAV option - you just need to get if you have had NAV before. Toyota's have one of the best OEM navs out there.

Still the GX carries the Lexus name plate that is the initial attraction to lean towards the GX.

But again I have to say, IMO of course, that the GX is very nice, but bulky, which is either a good thing to some or not attractive to others. Either way it's still a Lexus, which speaks for itself.