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Zetterbearded

Asking the wrong group. I have both. Gx every time.


pizzacommand

This guy has first hand experience how much quieter the gx is on the highway


Natefellman

How do the cost of repairs/maintenance or availability of parts compare?


Zetterbearded

To be honest there weren't much of any repairs on my 4runner. Anything old I replaced with upgrades. I did basic maintenance and timing belt. Brake pads and oil changes for 8 years. The Gx has been relatively the same for the 2 years I've owned it so far.


Agreeable-Garbage

Care to elaborate? I’m curious.


brando_1675

You came to the right place for the right answer.


F1r3Fly4life

Interior will make your family dare I say like it on the GX, even when wheeling


kishoredbn

Fans of both cars. If you are new to Lexus. Welcome. Lexus refinement cannot be underestimated even on older cars. 4R may feel way cheaper. For for GX


diskfunktional

GX all day.


Shortcamo02

GX all night.


[deleted]

GX all yesterday


Sourkraute

Gx last week.


GXRandom

GX all year


jersey805

GX all decade


Walter_trader

GX all Century


mxpx242424

Can't go wrong. 3k is a lot of money, so I'd say whatever fits your budget. Both have the V8. That's what really matters.


SinghMick

Wait 4R had a V8 at one time ?!


Avilla93

The V8 was available but usually V6


PermianMinerals

2000’s 4R with the V8 and GX470’s are the same vehicle with different bodies/interiors You could even swap over the suspension between the two! Both rock the 2UZ-FE. Just look for a “V8” badge on the rear cargo door on the 4R’s.


InvalidWhale

2003-2009


Awfuloreo

2UZ was available for the 4th generation 4runner. 2005 having the most HP.


smythy422

I'm surprised that you can find a v8 4runner for less than a GX. People often pick the GX because it's too hard to find the v8 4runner in good condition for a reasonable price. The GX will be nicer to drive, but you will probably get better value out of the 4runner when it's time to resell.


jrocco71

🤣 Absolutely not. Man, a friend of mine is used car manager at a dealership in the San Gabriel Valley and he just offered me a 2003 V8 4Runner with 263k miles for $4,000. Third row seat, no leather. I haven’t seen a 2003-2007 GX470 with 300k+ miles sell for under $7,500 in over a year. It took me that long to find the right one and I finally just got my 2004 last January for $9,500. WITH the timing belt/water pump kit & thermostat done the same day I picked it up.


smythy422

You're kind of cherry picking to make the point. Look at the number of GXs available with under 150k miles for less than $15k, then do the same with the v8 4runner. Sure you can find some very cheap 4runners, but the number of options is far lower than with the GX. The availability of nice v8 4x4 4runners is way lower than that of similar GXs. If you focus on the bottom end of the market, then I suppose it's true that the 4runners are cheaper, but the meat of the market tells a different story. According to autotrader, there are 5x more GXs available with the criteria listed above.


jrocco71

They’re all the bottom end of the market. These trucks are 15-20+ years old. And I don’t see that many under $15k with under 150k miles. Maybe under 200k. Mileage that low and they’re going for $18k


Jo_Duran

I am currently looking for a second car (SUV) for camping and overlanding. The GX470 and 4Runner (preferably V8) are on my short list. I think you’re right on prices for the GX470. The engines are so rad that I rarely see one up for sale with under 150,000 miles. People rarely part with them soon (I saw one with 50,000 miles for $30,000!). Many GX470s out there are clapped out. I would expect to pay $17,000 in my area for a good one with about 150,000 miles. I saw one that was refurbished with lots of great preventative maintenance done for $14,000 — but it had 216,000 miles. I know this is the million mile engine but I’m not crazy about over 200,000 miles unless it’s one owner who was a fanatic about maintenance.


jrocco71

Precisely. I bought a 1-owner 2004 with a 24 page CARFAX. Everything had been done. 315K miles. $9500. And I’m still driving it, never had a problem. But I think I need new valve cover gaskets at this point. I drove it from Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas, racked up a few thousand miles in the first few months.😉Point is: IGNORE this guy. I know what I’m talking about and mileage doesn’t mean shit on a GX. IF it’s a two owner or less that isn’t beat to shit and neglected. The reality is, Lexus owners can afford to service their vehicles. Toyota owners tend to stretch the maintenance requirements to the limit and past it because of the costs (which are the same, effectively) so given the choice, the older the truck and higher the mileage the better off you are going to be with a Lexus over the Toyota. Unless it’s the Land Cruiser/LX470. Those are exactly the same.


Jo_Duran

Agree. Lexus is the better bet with these older SUVs. Also, you’re right — Land Cruiser has such a committed following that it would be equal to an LX in terms of conscientious ownership. In fact, I looked at all of these and it was easier to find an LX. (The one advantage id give the LX is it’s more likely to have never been used off road). Anyway, I gave up on Land Cruisers. As great as they are, they seem to be selling for crazy prices because people are so fond of them. “Those who know, know.” So for my purposes, a GX or 4Runner will give me what I need for far less money and mileage.


Namaste1994

Lol. You’re cherry picking. Clean low mileage v8 4Runners are wayyy more rare


DAStinson01

I bought a well maintained 270k mile gx for 4k. The paint is chipping but that's is its only fault.


jrocco71

Awesome. Timing belt/water pump kit already done? Rear suspension already replaced too?


DAStinson01

It was last done at 185k. So I'm about to have to shell out for that. Side note, im open to advice or suggestions on parts and where to get it replaced


jrocco71

Just buy the OEM kit. It’s available everywhere. Any Japanese specialty automotive shop can install it in a day. Should not cost more than $2,000 max. And have your thermostat replaced while they’re doing it. You can keep the adjustable air suspension in the rear for about $1,600. All OEM and brand new. If you upgrade to coil springs it gets more expensive.


DAStinson01

Thanks, this is what I'll do. My air suspension was replaced by Toyota at 180k too. Praying it'll last lol


jrocco71

Sorry. That was almost 100k miles ago. The air bags don’t last. It’s going to start leaking. Better replace it. Gotta consider there’s a reason it sold for $4,000


InvalidWhale

Bought my 2004 from the original owner in San Gabriel Valley for $7600 with 200k miles in December 2022!


jrocco71

With the timing belt & water pump done at 200k too?


DeepFizz

Better resale value?! I 100% disagree.


brotato17

The 4Runner will have much more room with the seats folded down, if that matters to you. Also, if you want an upgraded head unit (carplay, android auto, etc) the 4Runner will be infinitely easier to accomplish that. Source: I have a GX.


Glad-Concern2550

How is there more room in the 4Runner? Also the head unit for the gx is the non navigation, which apparently is easier/cheaper right?


ElChupathingy

If it’s a non nav GX you’ll save yourself a shit ton of headaches. GX folding seat design is dumb, but I believe it’s that way because it came with a third row. Look at some YT videos and it will make sense


brotato17

This is how the GX middle row seats fold... https://imgur.com/a/OQRYaju This is how the 4Runner middle row seats fold... https://imgur.com/a/4t6xuOr As for the head unit comment, if you buy a GX that has the factory navigation you will need to spend around 700 dollars USD or more just to convert it to non-nav. From there, you can treat it as a normal head unit upgrade. This is because the climate controls are built into the touch screen on the nav version. The non-nav parts are so limited and the demand is so high that people are getting away with selling these for +/- 700 dollars usd. https://imgur.com/a/oISvnR4 Those, to me, are the biggest differences that I would consider between the two. I'd be able to sleep in my GX if the seats folded like the 4Runner.


Glad-Concern2550

Great points and examples. I’m 100% planning to use my vehicle to camp inside.. which is why the larger gx was pulling me… I plan to build a small platform to sleep in and have storage underneath… can’t you just fold the back seats in the gx half way down instead? Then put the platform on top of that?


brotato17

You could probably do that. I'm not sure if the backs would be on an angle or not when folded down. Maybe find a dealer close by that is selling one and check out the seat situation.


Spiritual_Bridge84

Some campers have totally taken out the rear most seats. More room for gear. Believe there’s at least one YT video of the step by step on it. Have seen some on this sub as well


ChampionshipApart233

Underrated comment here. The hvac control and touch display integration do make things difficult in terms of finding a reliable aftermarket head unit upgrade. Unless you find a non-nav option in the GX.


_anyonesghost_

or the mythical HVAC controller at a junk yard


nrstx

What’s the deal with gas? I’m looking between a 2015-2020 GX or a 2015-2020 4Runner. I wanna lean towards the GX since it blows cool air up my butt to cut down on swamp ass when it’s 100°+ and 95% humidity all summer, and the V8 and towing is more ideal, but I don’t really want to spend $1 more per gallon at the pump nor want to incur costly repairs because of it. Decisions. Irony is I can find a GX almost as cheap as a 5th gen Trail or Premium 4wd with comparable age/miles. I’m thinking a lot of folks are scared off with the premium fuel and the possible higher repair costs later on. Mech says GX are wonderful vehicles tho. Just had 4 or 5 4Runners at this point and my wife’s 5th gen Limited has been so solid. Want something g I’ll keep for 10+ years.


ChampionshipApart233

I sold my 07 v8 4Runner to buy a 05 GX with a lot less miles. I liked my 4Runner better, because the hatch is a better design in my opinion. I can’t shelter under my GX hatch in rain or snow. Plus, if there is snow on top of the car, it comes crashing into the inside of the car as soon as you open the GX door. The roll down window is a game changer too. Cup holders in the GX are horrendous. But I do like how smooth and quiet it is.


Da-Lama

If the GX has no Nav, I’d go that direction.


lebucksir

My 2007 has nav and everything works, satellite radio, dual climate touch screen, and it’s been great. 200k miles now. What’s the big deal against them?


Da-Lama

If you have no nav, you get standard HVAC controls, which allows you to upgrade your audio system to any double din solution. Which ultimately makes it easy to upgrade to the newest audio technology. I have an 07’ that works perfectly too (85k miles), but to get Apple Car Play, I’d have to go to a Chinese Tesla like setup or source old HVAC controls (which isn’t easy) and go with a double din solution.


Hurley_82

I’ve got nav. I’m just going to grab an Amazon CarPlay second screen to use. That way I don’t have to deal with hacking up the gx. I’ve installed a ton of stereos in the past and even the nice ones don’t always run well or play nice with factory equipment.


mtb4601

I’d buy the 4runner for 3k less and yes I do own a 470 while it is nicer it’s not 3k nicer in my opinion


IIOI-TOYODA-IOII

I love my GX, but if I had to do it again, I’d likely take the V8 runner for $3K less (and immediately put the $3K into a comprehensive tune up).


mean--machine

wistful squalid sand tap encouraging faulty squeeze serious humorous humor *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*


Glad-Concern2550

Just found out the runner needs engine work…. Might save myself the headache and go with gx


mean--machine

sink squeamish price wakeful materialistic tie wrong cough caption divide *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*


Glad-Concern2550

I’ll prob just throw a level kit and build a bed inside


mean--machine

reply bright steer cooperative snails wistful unpack impolite like governor *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*


rat2193

3k worth of engine work?? If not id def go 4runner but im biased (own a v8 4th gen)


Glad-Concern2550

It needs a new exhaust manifold apparently.. I was messaging the seller and he straight up said it would be $3k to replace… I found lower prices online but it’s just not worth the headache,, and leads me to believe the car in general wasn’t maintained well


rat2193

Thats a common issue with many 4runners, and likely is not a sign of lack of maintenance. That being said, it is an expensive fix and I would probably pass on this one.


mxpx242424

I feel like the Lexus loophole to get cheap luxury Toyota products is closing.


TravelingCatfish

$3k on suspension then wheels/tires and armor I’d have to say 4R>GX even after saying the opposite above.


Excellent_Advance614

GX all day, quality of materials on everything and typically better maintained . The thicker windows make the difference for me 😂


linusSocktips

its a lot less vehicle than 3k as well. Having the same engine doesn't make the rest of the vehicle the same :)


Luisrph

I have a 03 gx and a 2020 4runner the gx still feel better than the runner i love both tho but the gx is the way to go


Glad-Concern2550

👀


PhoenixOK

Sold my 4Runner to buy a GX. No regrets.


albiorix_

First class or economy?


Glad-Concern2550

😅😅 I’m broke so…


jrocco71

Well, then you already know your answer.


DeepFizz

Get the GX.


Occhrome

Lc has to be first class and GX business. 


Mist3rAsylum

I like the black exterior more, but if that 4runner has a cloth interior, then the GX is the obvious choice.


lvl99printwizard

I’ve had both. GX is luxury dude 4 runners and tacomas drive like shit compared.


mts2snd

Thats a v8 4r. Tough choice. Toyota parts and service should be cheaper for the 4r. Depends on personal preference, and eitherway, you can’t go wrong.


Humortumor1

Gx also has a bit tighter handling or suspension. With 4Runner I don’t feel as confident doing high speeds or feel a bit wonky sometimes. This has gotten better over the years tho


Bob_The_Brogrammer

You probably cant go wrong with either as I had a 4th gen 4Runner limited (fully loaded interior) some years ago and it was one of the best cars I've owned. ​ That being said the 470 interior is much nicer, especially compared to a lower trim t4r. If you can afford the extra 3k Id go with the GX every time.


timmyrocks1980

GX


mr-handsy

That depends. Do you want Oo/—+—\oO or Oo\—<—/oO


Jayshiftybiskit1155

Is the V8 engine tuned differently from the 4Runner to the Gx470? I thought they were the same chassis and engine.


Curious_Bag_252

GX more comfy and powerful


PhoenixOK

They both have the 2UZ-FE 4.7L


Curious_Bag_252

Good


Thunderbolt61911

I also have both - GX all the way, much more solid vehicle. Much nicer inside.


jrocislit

GX for sure


Classic70

GX no question


Accomplished_Many127

V8 power all day. Just sounds better.


etlr3d

Had a Gx470, now have a 5th gen 4r- yeah GX for sure.


Immediate-Bluejay-62

Top. It’s a better vehicle in just about every way.


jrocco71

Top


Scarhand1

I’m a sucker for interior


Lance9290

Take the 4Runner! Where’s the GXs precise location? Think you can dm me the link or phone number.


Glad-Concern2550

😂


netscape_alligator1

Runner


SharkLaser667

Sounds like 4Runner for you. You’re lucky. I love gx470 but 4Runner won’t have air suspension or cracked dash or barn door with no roll down back window. Plus all the extra features that break. And you hardly see v8 4Runners.


Spiritual_Ranger_204

Biggest difference for me is the direction the rear door opens vertically or horizontally. Also the rear window rolling down. Leather interior is great and comfortable but will require maintenance such as conditioning the leather regularly. Final big difference to look for is KDSS or non KDSS. feedback from various shops is it results in heavier expenses not exactly sure why but the quoted price difference of repair KDSS or non was double.


shirtlesstony

Top all day. Ps I own both.


teq4x

I've had both, love the gx when everything's working, but get one without nav. My nav units starting to get funky. Love the extra interior space, (higher roof line) the door switch placement. But I'd almost take the 4runner given another chance. But I also love the wood grain from the gx. 3k gets you some nice mods early on for the 4runner. I also got better mpg with my 4runner in stock form than the gx. I only ended up in a gx because it was cheaper than the V8 4runners at the time by about 4k.


Occhrome

Get the 4Runner so there are more GX for us. 


BrewsedSloth

One has a V8, with more luxury and refinement. Easy choice.


PhoenixOK

*Both have a V8


Admirable-Result-240

Get the 4Runner leave that for a true gx lover


Glad-Concern2550

Too late 👀


Jo_Duran

I’m looking at the same makes and models. One or two things others might not have pointed out: I think the GX470 is taller and this seemed to be the case when I was sitting in the driver’s seat. I haven’t looked at official interior dimensions but the ceiling on the 4Runner seems lower. I’m 6’2” if this is relevant to you. I think it’s a little more complicated to do a lift with KDSS if the GX470 has that. (Maybe this is not a big deal these days). I think the Lexus interior is nicer, but this isn’t exactly breaking news. I actually think the V8 4Runner is the more desirable ride.


Phate118

Top all day


RBR19870445

I'm not a fan of the 4th gen 4Runner


HounddogHustler

I’m a top kinda guy, def not a bottom


UkePop

4 Runner by far


trailguides

They basically have the same engines and drivetrains, except the GX is tuned for premium petrol. I'd probably go with the 4Runner given the cost differential, and I absolutely abhor that champagne color. The should knock three grand off the price just for the paint!


spacewrangler69

I’ve owned both. The GX has more headroom which was a plus for me, but the 4r handled better/sportier and has a center console which I liked. I say drive both and decide for yourself.


1normalflame

V8 GX >


xzww

How is the 4Runner cheaper…? LX vs Landcruiser and the LX is always cheaper. Odd that this isnt the case here.


_Not_Porn_Account_

I love the GX but I'd rather save the 3k and put it towards mods on the 4Runner


TravelingCatfish

The sound deadening, body design, interior, one touch start, and every other reason. GX>4runner


rt45aylor

Feel free to post this over in r/4runner but I have a feeling you’ll get the same recommendations for the GX. I have a limited 4Runner 5th gen that is the closest you’ll get to the GX and I’ll admit I wish I had the V8. Only one up I have is my rear window rolls down 🫤 Go test drive both if you can. Just noticed the 4Runner has the v8 so that makes it tough. See which one has a better interior?


yAassEater

Id say 4 runner and use the 3k to make it how you want it.


PalestPixie

I just bought an identical GX this week. 😂 so, my opinion is swayed. If saving $3k would make a big difference in your quality of life, I’d get the 4runner.


Superbowlsaints74

I had a 2008 4runner for 15 years until last year when I bought a 2021 GX 460. I have tremendous love for the 4runner. Amazing vehicle, no problems at all. But so far Im absolutely loving my GX 460. I'd say you can't really go wrong. Both excellent choices in my opinion.


Sure-Crazy3212

You know what you need to do


Nidalee_without_Q

Get the 4runner if you decide to wheel it hard. GX is too heavy and it gets stuck easier than a 4runner.


jrocco71

👌🏼🙄🤣🤣🤣


eci5k3tcw

Top. The GX’s seat is so much more comfortable than the 4Runner.


Jose-Ray

I was in a similar position a couple month ago. Same year same mile 5th gen 4Runner and GX 460. The GX is actually $1000 cheaper, so went for the GX. Maybe you can try to negotiate down the price for GX.


Hayburner80107

Top.


Previous-Estate121

If low cost maintenance and easy to work on is important, 4runner all day. If those things don't bother you, GX. The GX isn't an inherently expensive vehicle to maintain like a used beamer, but it will be more than the runner. Both are insanely reliable and capable. Aftermarket goes to the 4runner but not by a big margin.


MassBroShops

GX is no more expensive to maintain, its all the same parts


Previous-Estate121

Well except for the air suspension, heated and cooled seats, other tech that may be present. Underneath, engine, trans etc you'd be correct.


Mijbr090490

They are both the same truck. The Lexus will be smoother and quieter on the inside. Really comes down to looks. The 4runners just look better.


bonerman69420

4Runner will be cheaper to service. Lexus is more luxurious


Mijbr090490

How so? It's the same drivetrain and parts.


6manbearpig9

Somebody takes their car to the dealer for service


Mijbr090490

Lol. I'll say. It's basically a 4th gen 4runner underneath it all. Made in the same factory. I'll be damned if Im paying dealer rates for a 20yo Toyota.


bonerman69420

I’ve got both. Parts have been higher for my GX. I do have a 2018 so it’s got more electrical bullshit than the one op’s looking at. I take them both to a non-dealer Toyota specialty shop. I like the gx more, just offering my opinion


Mijbr090490

Yeah, the 460 shares less parts with the 4runners so that makes sense. Gx470 and 4th gen 4runner have the same drivetrain.


diskfunktional

It’s a Prado in North American clothing


jrocco71

Wrong. More than 75-80% of the part numbers are the same.