I've had a 3rd gen Tacoma since it was brand new in 2016 and hands down it has been the best vehicle I've ever owned. It's been flawless, dependable, and incredibly practical for the things I need it to do. I have always wanted a V8 4runner and am currently trying to get my hands on one. In short - the correct answer is of course both.
I have a 2012 Toyota 4Runner with 125,000 miles on it and it drives like it did when it came off the showroom floor. No rattles, squeaks or other odd sounds and no mechanical issues. Of all the vehicles I have owned over many years, this 4Runner is by far the best!
Yes, I did the same thing and now a believer based on experience. There are two major things however that I would suggest. One is to change the oil and filter every 5,000 miles with a good synthetic and two is to change the transmission oil every 30,000 miles with Toyota brand oil. I also do the other fluids every 30,000. @@CanadianGearhead
Just picked up the only 2009 v8 4wd sport edition for sale in California!! Upgraded from 06 v6 rwd 4runner... difference was like night and day!! Engine is sooooo smooooth! I love my 4th gen! ❤❤❤❤❤
I had an 08 4Runner almost exactly like the one in the video and I swapped to the 13 Tacoma because I do have a lot of home and work projects. But I miss the look of the 4Runner and back window
Talking about the difference in manufacturing, I bought my wife 2019 Rav4 Adventure model made in Canada, in my opinion a tin can. She had 2007 4runner., 100,000 miles,4liter 2wd which I inherited and got the better deal. My 4runner is solid, just put shocks and new tire, it's good to go for another 150,000 miles or more. I also have 2003 Tacoma which has 290,000 miles, used for eleven years as a rural mail vehicle, no leaks of any kind , use as my project and lumber hauler. All, except for Rav4 was made in Japan...I learned my lesson the hard way. 1. Always buy Japanese made Toyota and 2. Never buy the Newer generation, the first year of production of any Toyota vehicle.
Recently came to own an '07 Tacoma. Never thought I'd be a truck guy, but the truck has Toyota reliability and is a delight to drive. Please make more vids on the Tacoma!
I was the same way too when I had to find a vehicle to replace the car I owned before that I crashed, found a 97 4cyl Ford ranger didn't think much of it till I got into looking at Tacomas, found one in NC a 2012 TRD sport 4x4 double cab in manual and then I really became a truck guy, now I'm taco everything 😂👍🏽
I've got an 07 4Runner Sport and I LOVE being able to roll the back window down. Its one of my favorite things about it. I know the 1st gen Tundras also had the option and they didn't offer it on one gen, but brought it back. I'm glad I stumbled upon your channel, I've learned a bit about my rig that I didn't know. I need to go back and start watching from the beginning so I can see what I've missed. Thanks so much!
Both reliable as heck. Own both. The 5th gen 4Runner only gets used on the weekends. I like having the 6foot bed of the Tacoma but your 100% right. The 4Runner just feels different
I own a 05 tacoma and a new 23 4 runner it just hit 2000 miles both are excellent vehicles. My tacoma has never had to have any work on it other than tires and batteries!
re: turn radius, turned my 4runner around inside a narrow 2x2 intersection for the first time yesterday, and after 14 years in an econoline, i was probably more impressed than the situation really called for. it still had room to spare
We're looking at both right now. I've had an '85 and '97 4wd 4Runner and an '83 4wd long bed pickup. Loved them all, but in this case I think the 4th gen 4Runner is going to win out, especially since its for our college aged, new driver daughters, to drive. Yikes! 😬😅
forgot to mention a huge pro for the 4runner, all 4wd 4runners, regardless or trim, come with atrac, which mimics a locking dif. tacomas in the other hand just did not have them offered
Sounds like you may lean towards the 4th gen 4runner lol (as do I, your video's are what led me to purchase one a few years back). And yes I agree with the value of each. I've seen Tacoma's go for 2-3 times the value of a similar 4 runner.
Regarding the Tacoma brakes. Only the off-road versions of the Tacoma get the electric hydraulic brake master that gives more psi pressure then the factory vacuum booster on-top of the larger front brakes on later model 4runner. There are ways to get the vacuum brake master to have more force but i prefer 4 wheel disc for offroad
@@CanadianGearhead better yet, the reason for drum brakes was lower cost due to the 4runner being produced in Japan while the Tacoma was built in the u.s or Mexico. Toyota themselves said it gave a better hold for the e brake with the larger shared surface and handled sand better where the main markets for sale are Florida and California. The 8 inch rear differential can be replaced by the later model 8.2 complete rear housing with very little effort but at similar cost to adding a rear locker and re gearing. Alternatively diamond makes a 9.5" Landcruiser housing to fix the breakage that happens that uses all the factory axles and parts from the 4runner to bolt right in. I run this rear axle in my 2015 Tacoma with gussets and an ARB locker. Full float conversion coming soon. I'm nearby in British Columbia, testing the waters to try and make a standalone work with the 4.6 tundra motor and 6 speed a760f or 8 speed 8hp75 depending on the build stage
The Thing that first Impressed me about Toyota was I learned the amount of Profit that is plowed back into R & D. That Translates into a Better Built vehicle. Look at American made Ford, Gm Vehicles and Compare them against a Toyota and there is a Night and Day difference. Clearly American made Vehicles have lost the Qualitative edge.
Did you adjust your MPG on the 4R accounting for the mileage change you get from the larger tires? Your actually driving further than the odometer indicates.
There seems to have been an issue with the design of the from calipers, I had to replace mine and luckily, it was under warranty. The service manager "hinted" that there was a few of us that had to replace them.
@@CanadianGearhead It may or may have not. Remember dodge had a Dakota v8 up until 2011. The only thing that stopped the Dakota was the decline in mid size popularity. I personally don’t think the Dakota was aesthetically pleasing as others lol
Great real world comparison. I was torn between these two as well and waited a long time until something fell in my lap at a good price. Glad I waited for my 06 V8 👍
I gave you crap a couple of weeks ago about your stance on the raptor lights, but all kidding aside, your videos have steadily gotten better and better. Easily my favorite 4runner related channel. Nicely done sir.
I have an 08 4Runner and 23 Tacoma. I was going to sell the 4Runner but it brings a tear to my eye thinking about parting ways! I guess I will keep both of them.
Having had both, I’ll take the 4Runner over the Tacoma. If I need to haul something, we have a flat bed trailer. The 4Runner is more comfortable and feels better made.
Man you really nailed that review. Seriously. You hit on every point. I currently own a 2016 4Runner TRD PRO. I've owned quite a few Toyotas over the years, that I won't get into, but was recently somewhat considering a 2nd Gen Tacoma. I thought about it and realized I would regret it and your video pretty much confirms it. The Tacomas are great little trucks but the attention to detail and refinement on the 4runners are just at a different level.
Still enjoying my 2006 V6 4Runner up here in Yukon, Canada. 262k miles/420kms and the engine is still going strong. Luckily they don't use salt on the roads up here! As The Beast is getting long in the tooth, I was definitely weighing the Tacoma option but my 4runner suits my needs (work gear stays warmer in an SUV, rarely hauling anything) and gas is currently $1.89/L. My real debate (especially after your video) is whether to look for a 2009 Trail Edition as my next ride....
Love my 2007 4Runner. Mine's pretty much stock in terms of mechanics/suspension/wheels, but even so I've been very happily surprised by it's turning radius. It can turn tighter than many cars smaller than it. 4Runner made more sense to me as an all around/daily driver, dog vehicle, towing a small motorcycle trailer for track days, occasional camping, etc. I bought a drawer and sleep system from Solid Wood Worx. Awesome for camping and storing some emergency/roadside gear and tools. With the rear seats down, it can still handle moving a lot in the back, so IMO you really *need* to be using the bed, hauling a lot of big things to justify the Tacoma over the more practicality/versatility of the 4Runner.
My dad has an 09 Tacoma V6 dual cab prerunner and I have a 2003 4Runner V8. The 4Runner drives better (especially in the wet), tows better, has better visability while driving, has better space in the back seat, and I would take it any day over the Tacoma. I offered to trade my parents my 4Runner for their Tacoma as it rides so much better (they're in their 80's) and I'm glad they did not take me up on it.
I'm looking at a used 2022 4Runner SR5 and I'm coming from a 2007 Rav4 V6 Sport AWD! Enjoyed your video! I'm also under the impression of the better build quality when made in Japan!
I also own both a 2009 Tacoma TRDOR access cab and a 2005 4runner SR5 v6. My biggest complaint with the 4runner is the location of the window controls. I have the useless 3rd row seats. I think one thing that you didn't touch on is your 4runner is AWD do it would naturally pull moew evenly when you take off. My 4runner is stock and my tacoma is lifted on tires so my experience is opposite of your haha.
261k mile V6 version of your 4runner for sale in my area. Dealer asking 7499 and its lifted and clean. Checked the car fax, has full service history. Do you think its a good buy? Im leaning more towards 5th gen but this 4th gen caught my eye.
Well, I couldn't even get in my brother-in-law's Tacoma at 6'5 so there's that. My 2007 4Runner has a lot more room than that. Unless I adjusted the Tacoma seat incorrectly it has very little leg room up front.
I agree about the build quality from Japan. I have a rifle from Japan and I'm still amazed about how much thought was put into making sure it was reliable. Everything on it is overbuilt.
The 4runner is basically a Landcruiser Prado, and Lexus GX. So yes the quality is going to be slightly better than Tacoma. However, I love them both though.
I have an 06 Tacoma SR5 AC 4x4. I really need more space so with that in mind, GX470 or 4Runner 4.7? I love both, driven both, just cannot decide. What would be your opinion? Or do a 4Runner 4.0?
I totally agree with. I have a 2021 tundra TRD pro, now that is a 60k truck. They can’t even get the fog light right. I have to zip-tie my fog light tight on a 60k truck.
Learn more about how the 4Runner and Tacoma compare here: canadiangearhead.com/4runner-vs-tacoma/
I've had a 3rd gen Tacoma since it was brand new in 2016 and hands down it has been the best vehicle I've ever owned. It's been flawless, dependable, and incredibly practical for the things I need it to do. I have always wanted a V8 4runner and am currently trying to get my hands on one. In short - the correct answer is of course both.
I have a 2020 trd pro Tacoma and a 2021 trd off-road premium 4runner. I think I have the holy grail. Oh, and both titles are in my safe.🎉
I have a 2012 Toyota 4Runner with 125,000 miles on it and it drives like it did when it came off the showroom floor. No rattles, squeaks or other odd sounds and no mechanical issues.
Of all the vehicles I have owned over many years, this 4Runner is by far the best!
It really is impressive how well built these 4runners are. I always wondered why people loved them so much and when I got mine, it made sense!
Yes, I did the same thing and now a believer based on experience. There are two major things however that I would suggest. One is to change the oil and filter every 5,000 miles with a good synthetic and two is to change the transmission oil every 30,000 miles with Toyota brand oil. I also do the other fluids every 30,000.
@@CanadianGearhead
Have an 03. Same story. The Japanese were obsessed with build quality in this era.
Just picked up the only 2009 v8 4wd sport edition for sale in California!! Upgraded from 06 v6 rwd 4runner... difference was like night and day!! Engine is sooooo smooooth! I love my 4th gen! ❤❤❤❤❤
4runner is from Japan , the quality is amazing. Love my v8 awd.
Awesome comparison. I have an 07 4Runner and always wondered about switching to a Tacoma. I think I will stick to a 4Runner. Thanks!
Thanks for watching!!
I had an 08 4Runner almost exactly like the one in the video and I swapped to the 13 Tacoma because I do have a lot of home and work projects. But I miss the look of the 4Runner and back window
@@KG-qw4fvoutside of that, any other things you miss? I have a 07 4runner, and looking at a 2012-2015 double cab Tacoma.
Talking about the difference in manufacturing, I bought my wife 2019 Rav4 Adventure model made in Canada, in my opinion a tin can. She had 2007 4runner., 100,000 miles,4liter 2wd which I inherited and got the better deal. My 4runner is solid, just put shocks and new tire, it's good to go for another 150,000 miles or more. I also have 2003 Tacoma which has 290,000 miles, used for eleven years as a rural mail vehicle, no leaks of any kind , use as my project and lumber hauler. All, except for Rav4 was made in Japan...I learned my lesson the hard way. 1. Always buy Japanese made Toyota and 2. Never buy the Newer generation, the first year of production of any Toyota vehicle.
Recently came to own an '07 Tacoma. Never thought I'd be a truck guy, but the truck has Toyota reliability and is a delight to drive. Please make more vids on the Tacoma!
I will definitely consider that, thanks for the feedback!!
I was the same way too when I had to find a vehicle to replace the car I owned before that I crashed, found a 97 4cyl Ford ranger didn't think much of it till I got into looking at Tacomas, found one in NC a 2012 TRD sport 4x4 double cab in manual and then I really became a truck guy, now I'm taco everything 😂👍🏽
Terrific job on the video. I have 2008 V8 Limited 4Runner and I agree 100% with everything you said.
Thanks for watching!!
I've got an 07 4Runner Sport and I LOVE being able to roll the back window down. Its one of my favorite things about it. I know the 1st gen Tundras also had the option and they didn't offer it on one gen, but brought it back. I'm glad I stumbled upon your channel, I've learned a bit about my rig that I didn't know. I need to go back and start watching from the beginning so I can see what I've missed. Thanks so much!
Glad to have you aboard!!
@@CanadianGearhead Thank you! : )
I have an ‘04 Tacoma pre runner and an ‘08 4Runner sr5. Love them. Both at 220,000+ miles.
Both reliable as heck. Own both. The 5th gen 4Runner only gets used on the weekends. I like having the 6foot bed of the Tacoma but your 100% right. The 4Runner just feels different
Great vid! Actually in the market for one of these atm, so this video and your Buyers Guides are greatly appreciated! 👍
Glad you found it all helpful!
I own a 05 tacoma and a new 23 4 runner it just hit 2000 miles both are excellent vehicles. My tacoma has never had to have any work on it other than tires and batteries!
re: turn radius, turned my 4runner around inside a narrow 2x2 intersection for the first time yesterday, and after 14 years in an econoline, i was probably more impressed than the situation really called for. it still had room to spare
They're pretty darn nimble!
Team 4Runner! Awesome video Tim.
Thanks dood!
I had an 03 tacoma now have an 99 4runner. And, looking into either an 2nd Gen tacoma or 4th gen 4runner.
Great video as always buddy, gonna get a 4runner soon
Thanks for watching!!
The 4th gen 4Runner V8 is one of the best SUVs Toyota has made!
We're looking at both right now. I've had an '85 and '97 4wd 4Runner and an '83 4wd long bed pickup. Loved them all, but in this case I think the 4th gen 4Runner is going to win out, especially since its for our college aged, new driver daughters, to drive. Yikes! 😬😅
forgot to mention a huge pro for the 4runner, all 4wd 4runners, regardless or trim, come with atrac, which mimics a locking dif. tacomas in the other hand just did not have them offered
Sounds like you may lean towards the 4th gen 4runner lol (as do I, your video's are what led me to purchase one a few years back).
And yes I agree with the value of each. I've seen Tacoma's go for 2-3 times the value of a similar 4 runner.
Regarding the Tacoma brakes. Only the off-road versions of the Tacoma get the electric hydraulic brake master that gives more psi pressure then the factory vacuum booster on-top of the larger front brakes on later model 4runner. There are ways to get the vacuum brake master to have more force but i prefer 4 wheel disc for offroad
Very interesting!
@@CanadianGearhead better yet, the reason for drum brakes was lower cost due to the 4runner being produced in Japan while the Tacoma was built in the u.s or Mexico. Toyota themselves said it gave a better hold for the e brake with the larger shared surface and handled sand better where the main markets for sale are Florida and California.
The 8 inch rear differential can be replaced by the later model 8.2 complete rear housing with very little effort but at similar cost to adding a rear locker and re gearing. Alternatively diamond makes a 9.5" Landcruiser housing to fix the breakage that happens that uses all the factory axles and parts from the 4runner to bolt right in. I run this rear axle in my 2015 Tacoma with gussets and an ARB locker. Full float conversion coming soon.
I'm nearby in British Columbia, testing the waters to try and make a standalone work with the 4.6 tundra motor and 6 speed a760f or 8 speed 8hp75 depending on the build stage
The Thing that first Impressed me about Toyota was I learned the amount of Profit that is plowed back into R & D. That Translates into a Better Built vehicle.
Look at American made Ford, Gm Vehicles and Compare them against a Toyota and there is a Night and Day difference. Clearly American made Vehicles have lost the Qualitative edge.
I have a 2020 Tacoma Off Road and a 2004 v8 4Runner. So, should you buy a 4Runner or Tacoma? Get Both
23:47
Gentlemen, we need to meme Toyota into submission to recall those frame rails!
Just imagine, Scotty Kimber rolling in his sleep.
I had an 08 v6 4runner. Got bored of it. Maybe the v8 would have changed my mind. Nice mr2. I also had a 91 mr2. I miss it
I think the V8 is a big part of why I love the 4runner so much, the V6 just isn't as exciting
Great intro, ha.
Did you adjust your MPG on the 4R accounting for the mileage change you get from the larger tires? Your actually driving further than the odometer indicates.
Yes I factored in the percentage
You ever get sticky brake calipers on your 4 runner? What do you think about changing to 5th gen calipers on a 4th gen?
Yup I've dealt with it a few times, it sounds like the 5th gen ones are a worthwhile upgrade
There seems to have been an issue with the design of the from calipers, I had to replace mine and luckily, it was under warranty. The service manager "hinted" that there was a few of us that had to replace them.
Ugh that mr2 thoo
The Tacoma should of had the v8 attention just how the 4Runner got it
I totally agree, I wonder how it would have affected Tundra sales though
@@CanadianGearhead It may or may have not. Remember dodge had a Dakota v8 up until 2011. The only thing that stopped the Dakota was the decline in mid size popularity.
I personally don’t think the Dakota was aesthetically pleasing as others lol
One a soccer mom vehicle. Ones a truck.
Profile pic bias
Great real world comparison. I was torn between these two as well and waited a long time until something fell in my lap at a good price. Glad I waited for my 06 V8 👍
I gave you crap a couple of weeks ago about your stance on the raptor lights, but all kidding aside, your videos have steadily gotten better and better. Easily my favorite 4runner related channel. Nicely done sir.
I appreciate that a lot! And don't worry, I gave myself crap about the raptor lights too. All in good fun
I have an 08 4Runner and 23 Tacoma. I was going to sell the 4Runner but it brings a tear to my eye thinking about parting ways! I guess I will keep both of them.
Having had both, I’ll take the 4Runner over the Tacoma. If I need to haul something, we have a flat bed trailer. The 4Runner is more comfortable and feels better made.
You make great videos about 4Runners specially i just bought one . I enjoy them very much brother. Thank you for making those videos. Thanks !
Man you really nailed that review. Seriously. You hit on every point. I currently own a 2016 4Runner TRD PRO. I've owned quite a few Toyotas over the years, that I won't get into, but was recently somewhat considering a 2nd Gen Tacoma. I thought about it and realized I would regret it and your video pretty much confirms it. The Tacomas are great little trucks but the attention to detail and refinement on the 4runners are just at a different level.
I appreciate the kind words!
Been enjoying your videos. Would greatly appreciate it if you could have also used "L/100KM" for us Canadians too.
I'll keep that in mind for next time
Still enjoying my 2006 V6 4Runner up here in Yukon, Canada. 262k miles/420kms and the engine is still going strong. Luckily they don't use salt on the roads up here! As The Beast is getting long in the tooth, I was definitely weighing the Tacoma option but my 4runner suits my needs (work gear stays warmer in an SUV, rarely hauling anything) and gas is currently $1.89/L. My real debate (especially after your video) is whether to look for a 2009 Trail Edition as my next ride....
One thing to consider (and I could be wrong) but I think the 09 Trail Edition might have been V6-only
One a soccer mom vehicle. Ones a truck.
Toyota 4 Runner ❤
T4R 🏆 but love Tacos, too
What head units are those ? Thanks !
there is a gasoil 4runner tho
Loved the video! Awesome comparison. Thanks!
(I love my 4Runner)
Thanks for watching!
You said they both had v6 engines. You said the 4runner is a v8 just before that. But great video tho.
Both are available with the same 4.0 V6
Love my 2007 4Runner. Mine's pretty much stock in terms of mechanics/suspension/wheels, but even so I've been very happily surprised by it's turning radius. It can turn tighter than many cars smaller than it.
4Runner made more sense to me as an all around/daily driver, dog vehicle, towing a small motorcycle trailer for track days, occasional camping, etc. I bought a drawer and sleep system from Solid Wood Worx. Awesome for camping and storing some emergency/roadside gear and tools. With the rear seats down, it can still handle moving a lot in the back, so IMO you really *need* to be using the bed, hauling a lot of big things to justify the Tacoma over the more practicality/versatility of the 4Runner.
My dad has an 09 Tacoma V6 dual cab prerunner and I have a 2003 4Runner V8. The 4Runner drives better (especially in the wet), tows better, has better visability while driving, has better space in the back seat, and I would take it any day over the Tacoma. I offered to trade my parents my 4Runner for their Tacoma as it rides so much better (they're in their 80's) and I'm glad they did not take me up on it.
I'm looking at a used 2022 4Runner SR5 and I'm coming from a 2007 Rav4 V6 Sport AWD! Enjoyed your video! I'm also under the impression of the better build quality when made in Japan!
I also own both a 2009 Tacoma TRDOR access cab and a 2005 4runner SR5 v6. My biggest complaint with the 4runner is the location of the window controls. I have the useless 3rd row seats. I think one thing that you didn't touch on is your 4runner is AWD do it would naturally pull moew evenly when you take off. My 4runner is stock and my tacoma is lifted on tires so my experience is opposite of your haha.
261k mile V6 version of your 4runner for sale in my area. Dealer asking 7499 and its lifted and clean. Checked the car fax, has full service history. Do you think its a good buy? Im leaning more towards 5th gen but this 4th gen caught my eye.
Well, I couldn't even get in my brother-in-law's Tacoma at 6'5 so there's that. My 2007 4Runner has a lot more room than that. Unless I adjusted the Tacoma seat incorrectly it has very little leg room up front.
I agree about the build quality from Japan. I have a rifle from Japan and I'm still amazed about how much thought was put into making sure it was reliable. Everything on it is overbuilt.
The 4runner is basically a Landcruiser Prado, and Lexus GX. So yes the quality is going to be slightly better than Tacoma. However, I love them both though.
Keep the 4runner and get a new Tacoma
If I get rid of the Tacoma it would be for a Tundra
@@CanadianGearhead that’s a good choice too.
Love my 08 v8 runner 💥 look into putting a magna flow overland exhaust on yours it sounds extremely good does the V8 justice
I actually heard that you can swap the Tacoma front end look on those type of 4runner bolt on of course swapping everything I’ve seen photos of it
I love how my tacoma took off, but with today's gas prices I'll drive slower and stick to my 4runner
I have both.. 2003 Tacoma
And 2006 4runner
Lord have mercy I'm about to bust!
I have an 06 Tacoma SR5 AC 4x4. I really need more space so with that in mind, GX470 or 4Runner 4.7? I love both, driven both, just cannot decide. What would be your opinion? Or do a 4Runner 4.0?
I test drove a GX before buying my 4runner and really liked it - it came down to the hatch vs barn door for me
I totally agree with. I have a 2021 tundra TRD pro, now that is a 60k truck. They can’t even get the fog light right. I have to zip-tie my fog light tight on a 60k truck.
That's crazy!
Awesome video 👍🏼 how’s the motomaster tires on the tacoma? I’m running the same tires for 20,000 kms now.
I love them! Sometimes I forget they aren't car tires since they're so smooth and quiet
doesn't matter which Toyota SUV/trucks. As long as it has a V8 then I like it.
I agree with that 100%
Is that an nsx in your garage??!
MR2!
What head unit is in the tacoma?
It's from Idoing
Just got my 2008 toyota 4runner love it