Questions about the 4runners

[Robinhood4x4]

We took the corolla into the dealer for some service and had a look at the new 4runners. Within a year or so we'll be getting a new or used 4runner for more reliable transportation.

How are the V6 and the V8 engines holding up? We'll probably be getting a V6 because try as I might, I just can't logically justify the V8. How are the transmissions holding up?

Are there any rumors of a redesign soon?

The sales guy said they're going to be doing zero percent financing soon. How common is this now-a-days? Is this something we should jump on or do they happen all the time?

By the way, the new tundra sure looks nice.

[Good Times]

both engines are great but if you're gonna get a 4th gen get the 05+ 4runners cuz the v8 got the upgraded block (245hp -> something higher) and the v6 got the 5 speed auto.

0% financing? wow i'm surprised for a toyota!

[Bob98SR5]

steve,

whtas wrong w/ getting the v8? the v6 takes premium, i think it was. and also, they get roughly the same mileage.

bob

[Good Times]

nah both engine uses the same crappy gas..

[blknblu]

See, I can't justify the V6.

Per Edmunds.com
V8 4runner hp 260, tq 306, mpg 16/19
V6 4runner hp 226, tq 266, mpg 17/21

[Robinhood4x4]

I was surprised to hear 0% financing too, I didn't think they did that very often.

Two mpg difference is 10% better mileage. It's not much difference but it isn't trivial either. Plus a V8 and the accompanying package would cost more than a base V6 anyway.

We crawled around the highlander too, I was surprised it got up to 29 mpg. That's better than my miata and a whole lot more practical. Plus it's not as gay as bob.

[slosurfer]

Steve, have you considered a taco dcab? We went that route because the backseat was bigger and we added a shell so it would still be convenient as a grocery getter. April loves it. And to think she wanted a MiniVan she thanks me everytime she sees a minivan. The 4runners are nice also, but we needed the extra room, going to have to put another carseat in there pretty soon.

[blknblu]

Two mpg difference is 10% better mileage. It's not much difference but it isn't trivial either. Plus a V8 and the accompanying package would cost more than a base V6 anyway.

We crawled around the highlander too, I was surprised it got up to 29 mpg. That's better than my miata and a whole lot more practical. Plus it's not as gay as bob.

OK, I guess like many of these discussions, I have to ask what you are trying to acheive with the vehicle. Based on your comments you are replacing a Corolla and just looking for safe, reliable, efficient transportation? In that case, sure get the v6 or something else entirely. As for my previous post, that 10% additional gas consumption gets you 17% more HP and 15% more torque so I think it's still a good value... but only if one is going to use it.

[Robinhood4x4]

I would probably prefer a tacoma, but I think a 4runner is going to be more practical. We have to keep in mind that our family may be expanding sometime in the future so I figure a SUV will give easier access to the cargo area. With Miki and a baby in the back seat it would be easier for Miki to grab things out the back if she needs it. That's a little tougher to do with a truck. But what do you think, Chris?

The increased power probably won't be needed. Shoot, I've survived just fine with 150 hp and 180 ft-lbs of torque for the last 14 years. It's possible I could be towing things in the future, but I doubt it'll be anything too heavy. Oh, and this will be replacing the miata. The corolla is our safe, reliable car right now.

Anyway, we're pretty far away from buying, and I'll surely test drive the V6 and the V8 first.

[Good Times]

psss, I know someone who has this awesome damaged 4th gen possibly for sale!

yeah I'd have to agree w/ you, the v6 is probably a better route considering what you're attempting to accomplish. And the selection between the 4runner vs tacoma, I'd definitely take the 4runner hands down. The ability to store stuff in the same cabin will be big (plus room for the dogs too!) - don't forget them!