I’m looking to buy a new car since my Jeep Wrangler is approaching 100k miles, and I’m starting to see a few issues pop up. Its trade-in value is still good, so I’m thinking of getting something new before that drops. I want something with a decent size that sits up high, similar to my Jeep. I don’t need a lot of space since it’s just my girlfriend, our two dogs, and me. I really like the look of the 2025 4Runners, but none of the dealerships near me know when they’ll be available. Someone also suggested I consider a Land Cruiser. I like the look of that too and plan to test drive one soon. I prefer the newer model over the 1958 version, but there’s usually about a $12k price difference. Any advice on these two vehicles or Toyotas in general?
Dealer here.
4Runners are available now, but dealerships can only get them based on what Toyota has told them they’ll be building or has already built. It’s all about dealer preference. As for the Land Cruiser, it’s not a bad choice, but the interior size might be smaller than expected. The 4Runner could give you more space for the price, but it’s definitely worth checking it out in person before you decide. The trade-in value on your Jeep should still be decent as long as its condition and mileage don’t change much. Also, you might find a good discount on a Cruiser now, while 4Runners are being sold at markup over MSRP.
@laura
Thanks a lot for the info! Do you think there are any major differences between the two models besides the interior size?
Sunny said:
@laura
Thanks a lot for the info! Do you think there are any major differences between the two models besides the interior size?
Absolutely.
Sunny said:
@laura
Thanks a lot for the info! Do you think there are any major differences between the two models besides the interior size?
Absolutely.
What are some of the biggest differences?
@Sunny
The Land Cruiser was developed alongside the Lexus GX, and even the 1958 model has some Lexus features. The 4Runner’s interior is pretty much like the Tacoma’s. If you like the 4Runner’s style and don’t mind the Tacoma feel inside, you can probably get a lower trim for less than the Land Cruiser 1958.
@Themech
Exactly. In my opinion, the Land Cruiser just didn’t impress me much.
laura said:
@Themech
Exactly. In my opinion, the Land Cruiser just didn’t impress me much.
Coming from a second-gen Tacoma, I think it’s just right for me.
100k miles and your Jeep is falling apart already?
Spence said:
100k miles and your Jeep is falling apart already?
It’s not completely broken, but the stereo went out, and the mechanic said it’d cost 1-2k to fix it, plus a couple of other minor issues.
Spence said:
100k miles and your Jeep is falling apart already?
My brother-in-law has had a Grand Cherokee for 6 years. It hit 100k miles, and suddenly, it started needing a lot of repairs. Luckily, he has a crazy warranty that covers everything for life. But still, it’s been a lot of work and money. The vehicle was fine until then.
@Zhen
That’s my concern too.
The new 4Runners look more like Land Cruisers than the new Land Cruisers do, in my opinion. I’d go for the 4Runner.
I’ve driven a Tacoma and a 1958 Land Cruiser. The 4Runner is essentially a Japanese-made Tacoma. The 1958 is like a budget version of the Lexus GX. If you like the look of the 4Runner and the interior of the Tacoma, it could be a more affordable option than the Land Cruiser. The 1958 does have some Lexus touches and a better seating position though.
Why not buy a 2024 certified pre-owned 5th-gen 4Runner? You’d enjoy it for years.
A Rav4 should be enough for you guys.