Couldn’t Pull the Trigger on GX
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 15
Likes: 4
From: PA
Couldn’t Pull the Trigger on GX
I was looking to ‘upgrade’ from a 2017 4Runner Limited to a 2017 GX Luxury. I ended up not doing it. Here’s why:
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus!
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror!
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said
The first three were enough for me to really scratch my head. If you are seriously considering the GX, you have to know about the barn door and just accept it. I was prepared to do that. However, I felt that the GX just didn’t align with my lifestyle - I have kids that are just getting into the teens and we are very active - going to their games, going to concerts, tailgating at football games, camping and road trips. I felt that I would need to make too many compromises with the GX vs. the T4R. Examples:
1. Cargo box - I have a Thule XL box and cannot use OEM crossbars as the cargo box wouldn’t clear the satellite antennae-as such I would have to buy something like an Inno rail grabber. Problem is that I already have a Thule one that wraps around the rail, which works for most roof rails, just not the GX. Overall, not a big deal but I would need to spend some money to use my cargo box.
2. Power outlets and cup holders for second row -I know there are solutions for both of these. It is just more work for me.
3. ML stereo - I often tailgate, blasting music from my T4R (with the engine running because the radio shuts off after 10-20 mins just running off the battery) and the speakers in the tailgate work great (and are loud). I don’t think I would get the same result without investing some money in after market speakers and amps in the GX. I was extremely disappointed in the ML system.
4. Somewhat minor, but I found the whole touchscreen system to be slower/less responsive than the one in the T4R.
5. I don’t have a 3rd row in my T4R and I chose this on purpose because I get more cargo space with the lower floor. It would be great if the GX had a 3rd row delete option.
What me and my family liked about the GX:
1. Engine definitely pulls harder/better
2. Interior looks and feels nicer (although the door pockets are identical between the two cars and I think the T4R center console storage and cup layout is better).
3. Many more tech features in the GX.
4. Exterior looks are subjective, but I think the GX is sharper.
I really wanted to love the GX, but I felt I was making too much of a compromise for what would be an additional $12k in spend. I’m posting this in the GX forum on purpose - perhaps I’m looking to be convinced to still get the GX. Any thoughts that could persuade me?
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus!
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror!
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said
The first three were enough for me to really scratch my head. If you are seriously considering the GX, you have to know about the barn door and just accept it. I was prepared to do that. However, I felt that the GX just didn’t align with my lifestyle - I have kids that are just getting into the teens and we are very active - going to their games, going to concerts, tailgating at football games, camping and road trips. I felt that I would need to make too many compromises with the GX vs. the T4R. Examples:
1. Cargo box - I have a Thule XL box and cannot use OEM crossbars as the cargo box wouldn’t clear the satellite antennae-as such I would have to buy something like an Inno rail grabber. Problem is that I already have a Thule one that wraps around the rail, which works for most roof rails, just not the GX. Overall, not a big deal but I would need to spend some money to use my cargo box.
2. Power outlets and cup holders for second row -I know there are solutions for both of these. It is just more work for me.
3. ML stereo - I often tailgate, blasting music from my T4R (with the engine running because the radio shuts off after 10-20 mins just running off the battery) and the speakers in the tailgate work great (and are loud). I don’t think I would get the same result without investing some money in after market speakers and amps in the GX. I was extremely disappointed in the ML system.
4. Somewhat minor, but I found the whole touchscreen system to be slower/less responsive than the one in the T4R.
5. I don’t have a 3rd row in my T4R and I chose this on purpose because I get more cargo space with the lower floor. It would be great if the GX had a 3rd row delete option.
What me and my family liked about the GX:
1. Engine definitely pulls harder/better
2. Interior looks and feels nicer (although the door pockets are identical between the two cars and I think the T4R center console storage and cup layout is better).
3. Many more tech features in the GX.
4. Exterior looks are subjective, but I think the GX is sharper.
I really wanted to love the GX, but I felt I was making too much of a compromise for what would be an additional $12k in spend. I’m posting this in the GX forum on purpose - perhaps I’m looking to be convinced to still get the GX. Any thoughts that could persuade me?
Racer
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 1,985
Likes: 1,045
From: Northeast Ohio
I was looking to ‘upgrade’ from a 2017 4Runner Limited to a 2017 GX Luxury. I ended up not doing it. Here’s why:
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus!
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror!
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said
The first three were enough for me to really scratch my head. If you are seriously considering the GX, you have to know about the barn door and just accept it. I was prepared to do that. However, I felt that the GX just didn’t align with my lifestyle - I have kids that are just getting into the teens and we are very active - going to their games, going to concerts, tailgating at football games, camping and road trips. I felt that I would need to make too many compromises with the GX vs. the T4R. Examples:
1. Cargo box - I have a Thule XL box and cannot use OEM crossbars as the cargo box wouldn’t clear the satellite antennae-as such I would have to buy something like an Inno rail grabber. Problem is that I already have a Thule one that wraps around the rail, which works for most roof rails, just not the GX. Overall, not a big deal but I would need to spend some money to use my cargo box.
2. Power outlets and cup holders for second row -I know there are solutions for both of these. It is just more work for me.
3. ML stereo - I often tailgate, blasting music from my T4R (with the engine running because the radio shuts off after 10-20 mins just running off the battery) and the speakers in the tailgate work great (and are loud). I don’t think I would get the same result without investing some money in after market speakers and amps in the GX. I was extremely disappointed in the ML system.
4. Somewhat minor, but I found the whole touchscreen system to be slower/less responsive than the one in the T4R.
5. I don’t have a 3rd row in my T4R and I chose this on purpose because I get more cargo space with the lower floor. It would be great if the GX had a 3rd row delete option.
What me and my family liked about the GX:
1. Engine definitely pulls harder/better
2. Interior looks and feels nicer (although the door pockets are identical between the two cars and I think the T4R center console storage and cup layout is better).
3. Many more tech features in the GX.
4. Exterior looks are subjective, but I think the GX is sharper.
I really wanted to love the GX, but I felt I was making too much of a compromise for what would be an additional $12k in spend. I’m posting this in the GX forum on purpose - perhaps I’m looking to be convinced to still get the GX. Any thoughts that could persuade me?
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus!
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror!
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said
The first three were enough for me to really scratch my head. If you are seriously considering the GX, you have to know about the barn door and just accept it. I was prepared to do that. However, I felt that the GX just didn’t align with my lifestyle - I have kids that are just getting into the teens and we are very active - going to their games, going to concerts, tailgating at football games, camping and road trips. I felt that I would need to make too many compromises with the GX vs. the T4R. Examples:
1. Cargo box - I have a Thule XL box and cannot use OEM crossbars as the cargo box wouldn’t clear the satellite antennae-as such I would have to buy something like an Inno rail grabber. Problem is that I already have a Thule one that wraps around the rail, which works for most roof rails, just not the GX. Overall, not a big deal but I would need to spend some money to use my cargo box.
2. Power outlets and cup holders for second row -I know there are solutions for both of these. It is just more work for me.
3. ML stereo - I often tailgate, blasting music from my T4R (with the engine running because the radio shuts off after 10-20 mins just running off the battery) and the speakers in the tailgate work great (and are loud). I don’t think I would get the same result without investing some money in after market speakers and amps in the GX. I was extremely disappointed in the ML system.
4. Somewhat minor, but I found the whole touchscreen system to be slower/less responsive than the one in the T4R.
5. I don’t have a 3rd row in my T4R and I chose this on purpose because I get more cargo space with the lower floor. It would be great if the GX had a 3rd row delete option.
What me and my family liked about the GX:
1. Engine definitely pulls harder/better
2. Interior looks and feels nicer (although the door pockets are identical between the two cars and I think the T4R center console storage and cup layout is better).
3. Many more tech features in the GX.
4. Exterior looks are subjective, but I think the GX is sharper.
I really wanted to love the GX, but I felt I was making too much of a compromise for what would be an additional $12k in spend. I’m posting this in the GX forum on purpose - perhaps I’m looking to be convinced to still get the GX. Any thoughts that could persuade me?
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2017
Posts: 20
Likes: 17
From: CA
You are not wrong about any of the inconvienances. 1: the cup holders up front suck. To fit the 32oz Yeti I purposefully removed (read as broke) the top tab in order for the cup holder to hold larger cups. That top tab had to align with the bottom and low and behold they never play nice with big mugs. Now that it’s modified both my wife and I hold 2 large Yeti tumblers just fine.
2: the rear console having no 12v power is ridiculous. I added a 2 usb and 12v cigarette outlet and ran power off the 12v outlet up front. Pain in the *** to even consider having to do, but honestly one of the easiest center consoles I have ever had to do. It’s all pop outs with maybe 2-3 screws.
3: my wife’s Biggest complaint is the laggy touchscreen! You are not wrong, again. It’s a pain in the *** to touch something 3 times. The navigation should honestly never have been incorporated.
But it with those complaints, we love the GX over the 5th gen 4Runner. It’s slightly larger inside. It rides more planted (premium bags) and had the additional power needed for on ramps. I can tow with the V8 if needed. With minor upgrades it can be loved. You see 4Runners everyday, and honestly being in a GX is just a little different but all the same bones.
2: the rear console having no 12v power is ridiculous. I added a 2 usb and 12v cigarette outlet and ran power off the 12v outlet up front. Pain in the *** to even consider having to do, but honestly one of the easiest center consoles I have ever had to do. It’s all pop outs with maybe 2-3 screws.
3: my wife’s Biggest complaint is the laggy touchscreen! You are not wrong, again. It’s a pain in the *** to touch something 3 times. The navigation should honestly never have been incorporated.
But it with those complaints, we love the GX over the 5th gen 4Runner. It’s slightly larger inside. It rides more planted (premium bags) and had the additional power needed for on ramps. I can tow with the V8 if needed. With minor upgrades it can be loved. You see 4Runners everyday, and honestly being in a GX is just a little different but all the same bones.
Racer
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 1,985
Likes: 1,045
From: Northeast Ohio
Driver School Candidate
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 24
Likes: 21
From: Ca
My biggest complaint is not having a power port in the 2nd row...I alleviated some of this pain by running a long charging wire from the 3rd row power outlet for my occupants to use. It's actually still a pita because that wire is all over the place and gets stuck here and there in between the seats when I stow them away or fold them down...but I don't have a family of my own and it's an amenity for my passengers occasionally...so I think I can hack it for awhile...
To me, you can't go wrong with either vehicle...I'd own both if I had the coin...a nice TRD Pro T4R in Quicksand would look nice next to my GX
To me, you can't go wrong with either vehicle...I'd own both if I had the coin...a nice TRD Pro T4R in Quicksand would look nice next to my GX
Trending Topics
Racer
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 1,734
Likes: 606
From: San Jose, CA
Honestly, if you hate the rear door of the GX, then the 4Runner is the next best choice.
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus! - I use a 20 and 32oz Yeti/Thermo and it fits fine in the front cup holders. 40+ or 64 oz won't fit but not many can fit a 64oz.
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror! - Currently I run a very small USB extension from the front to middle row when on trips but on normal day to day, I don't have any issues. The kids also have their own portable 10,000mA batteries that last a long while too - Will install the USB ports eventually.
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating - I found the ML sound is really nice for what I'm listening to.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said - Yeah this is a killer if you don't like it. I on the other hand like it as well as my wife and kids.
I have a 2010 and I don't really find the touch screen lagging at all. It is old tech but whenever I change audio stations, NAV, use phone etc...I find it responding pretty good.
I have OEM crossbars and have mounted Yakima basket on it without issue. When I test mounted my Yakima Skybox 18 I didn't remember if it hit the antenna or not. I will have to mount it again and see.
The 4Runner is a great truck as well. I especially like the TRD Pro look with dark blue.
1. The Captains chairs were a key feature for us and we really liked them. A big plus for the GX. Unfortunately the cup holders are tiny and don’t hold a Yeti. That is a big minus! - I use a 20 and 32oz Yeti/Thermo and it fits fine in the front cup holders. 40+ or 64 oz won't fit but not many can fit a 64oz.
2. No power outlet in 2nd row. The horror! - Currently I run a very small USB extension from the front to middle row when on trips but on normal day to day, I don't have any issues. The kids also have their own portable 10,000mA batteries that last a long while too - Will install the USB ports eventually.
3. The ML sound system is a lot less thumpy than the JBL in the T4R Limited. Not good for tailgating - I found the ML sound is really nice for what I'm listening to.
4. Speaking of tailgates... enough said - Yeah this is a killer if you don't like it. I on the other hand like it as well as my wife and kids.
I have a 2010 and I don't really find the touch screen lagging at all. It is old tech but whenever I change audio stations, NAV, use phone etc...I find it responding pretty good.
I have OEM crossbars and have mounted Yakima basket on it without issue. When I test mounted my Yakima Skybox 18 I didn't remember if it hit the antenna or not. I will have to mount it again and see.
The 4Runner is a great truck as well. I especially like the TRD Pro look with dark blue.
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 15
Likes: 4
From: PA
You all have great responses! I found a floor-based cup holder that can go between the captains chairs that will fit Yetis. I will figure out the 2nd row power and likely install my own at some point. Two issues solved/mitigated!
Question on for you all - I often tailgate with my 4Runner hatch open and play music (speakers are mounted on the hatch door once the 4Runner) and I get really good volume. With the ML system, there are some speakers right by the rear door. Do these get loud enough so that I can leave the barn door (or even just the rear window) open and hear loud music?
Question on for you all - I often tailgate with my 4Runner hatch open and play music (speakers are mounted on the hatch door once the 4Runner) and I get really good volume. With the ML system, there are some speakers right by the rear door. Do these get loud enough so that I can leave the barn door (or even just the rear window) open and hear loud music?
Racer
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 1,985
Likes: 1,045
From: Northeast Ohio
You all have great responses! I found a floor-based cup holder that can go between the captains chairs that will fit Yetis. I will figure out the 2nd row power and likely install my own at some point. Two issues solved/mitigated!
Question on for you all - I often tailgate with my 4Runner hatch open and play music (speakers are mounted on the hatch door once the 4Runner) and I get really good volume. With the ML system, there are some speakers right by the rear door. Do these get loud enough so that I can leave the barn door (or even just the rear window) open and hear loud music?
Question on for you all - I often tailgate with my 4Runner hatch open and play music (speakers are mounted on the hatch door once the 4Runner) and I get really good volume. With the ML system, there are some speakers right by the rear door. Do these get loud enough so that I can leave the barn door (or even just the rear window) open and hear loud music?
All good, the T4R is a nice car. When i bought our GX, i drove both and what made me get the GX over the T4R Limited was the "bounciness" of the ride, the interior feel of a bit on the less luxury side and the lack for a V8 for hauling. The rear door is the only thing i don't prefer on the GX but i don't mind it anymore.
Enjoy your car!
Enjoy your car!
CL Community Team
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 9,317
Likes: 3,977
From: USA
OP: I'm pretty happy with the ML myself.... certainly blows away the Bose stuff I've generally had experience in the Nissan & Infiniti line.
I think the biggest obstacle for you is the tailgate. Personally it works well for me in my garage.... it's a unique feature and in my part of the country 460s aren't on every corner..in fact they are rare... but 4R's sure are everywhere. I don't even see as many 470s as I used too... I guess that is to be expected as a vehicle ages though.
I think the biggest obstacle for you is the tailgate. Personally it works well for me in my garage.... it's a unique feature and in my part of the country 460s aren't on every corner..in fact they are rare... but 4R's sure are everywhere. I don't even see as many 470s as I used too... I guess that is to be expected as a vehicle ages though.
CL Community Team
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 9,317
Likes: 3,977
From: USA
No worries... even if you don't install surely an easy one to resell. One of these days I need to mount mine into the metal versus just the plastics. The 20 or so lb capacity has been fine so far but would like option to put even heavier loads on there. That parachute cord is rated for some heavy stuff.