GX460 vs T4R

[LX470Mack]

Have a LX 470, previously owned a 5th gen trail, have had plenty of seat time in GX470, GX460, Prado, and 200 series. GX is not equal to the Prado if what you are saying is true. GX has a V8 and the Prado for a petrol gets the V6 which is the exact same engine in the 4runner. Now if we were comparing the GX, Prado or the 4runner to the 200 series I would agree not even in the same league. But they are all built off the same concept. Toyota knows this and it's easy to see that they are all siblings under the 150 platform. I would consider every single one a Land Cruiser lite but it's insane to think either the Prado or the GX is a different animal.

My brothers Prado is a 3.0TD. It's the second best vehicle you can buy behind a 200 in this category imo.

The T4R is built to a lesser budget so Toyota has a vehicle at a certain price-point in a certain class in a certain sector of the market. It's a Wrangler, Pajero/Montero Sport, old model pathfinder type competitor.

 

[willgabriel]

They are completely different cars. Some of the architecture is the same.

Anything bearing the LandCruiser name plate which the Prado does and by proxy the GX is significantly better engineered and more expensive than a 4-runner.

The FJ was also built on the same platform and in Japan too (At least our examples in Oz were), with the same gearbox and engine and it is a great vehicle, however, it is inferior to a Prado/GX. In terms of safety, insulation, material quality, general fit and finish and refinement.

It is the same with the 4runner and GX. The 4runner is outmatched.

An Avalon and an ES are same platform etc....apples and Oranges. Shared parts and architecture equal kin, not equals.

I agree with this. I just sold an 2018 4 Runner Limited I drove for a month. It was and is a great vehicle. I’d owned a GX470 before and still have a 2001 Land Cruiser. Basically, I missed the V8. So, I found a used 2016 GX 460 with only 24k miles. There are many shared parts to be sure, yet the sheet metal and driving experience create a completely different feel for me.

As someone else wrote above, for $48,400, I think Toyota could do a better job with the look and feel of the interior pieces on the 4Runner. It’s built well, but it feels cheap. Of course the ride in the Lexus is better (which may not matter to persons mainly using the 4Runner for local and off-road duty; in fact, the turning radius is better and the response quicker in the 4Runner). That matters for me as I do a significant amount of highway travel (the 20” rims on the Limited didn’t deaden much of the road; a cure being a TRD with smaller rims, I guess). And the Lexus drives like a smaller vehicle due the sheet metal with an understandably softer feel (which some folks don’t want).

Summary: For me, at present, I’d always opt for a 2-3 years old used GX460 over a new or used 4Runner. That may not be the best choice for others. As it’s a Toyota SUV either way, it’s a win/win overall.

 

[Knowbuddy]

My brothers Prado is a 3.0TD. It's the second best vehicle you can buy behind a 200 in this category imo.

The T4R is built to a lesser budget so Toyota has a vehicle at a certain price-point in a certain class in a certain sector of the market. It's a Wrangler, Pajero/Montero Sport, old model pathfinder type competitor.

How many 5th gen 4runners have you actually driven? We do not get the 3.0TD in the USA and you do not get the V8 so I suppose the GX is superior to your Land Cruiser Prado that y'all get.

 

[Tapage]

I'm lost in the thread .. are we debating if the 4R it's better for off road than the GX460 ? coz it might .. or are we debating if the GX460 it's better on road than the 4R which it is .. ?

 

[Jetboy]

They are completely different cars. Some of the architecture is the same.

Anything bearing the LandCruiser name plate which the Prado does and by proxy the GX is significantly better engineered and more expensive than a 4-runner.

The FJ was also built on the same platform and in Japan too (At least our examples in Oz were), with the same gearbox and engine and it is a great vehicle, however, it is inferior to a Prado/GX. In terms of safety, insulation, material quality, general fit and finish and refinement.

It is the same with the 4runner and GX. The 4runner is outmatched.

An Avalon and an ES are same platform etc....apples and Oranges. Shared parts and architecture equal kin, not equals.

I think we're arguing over semantics. I think what I call better equipped or better optioned, you are referring to as "better engineered".

If not, I guess the question would be whether you would say that the Prado150 Kakado is better engineered than the Prado 150 TX with a 2.7L 160hp 4cyl?

Certainly the GX has features the 4runner doesn't. It's a luxury edition of the same vehicle. We know that the entire driveline/frame/suspension/axles etc are all uniform across all 150's. They're manufactured on the same production line by the same people. - And Toyota manufactures them on a made to order basis, meaning a blue 4runner will be on the line directly behind a red GX and in front of a green Prado 150. Toyota doesn't do production runs of one vehicle and then switch to the next. They stamp fenders from the same stock of sheet metal for each unit as it goes through. The 1GR on the line doesn't know whether it's going in a Land Cruiser 150, LC200, or a 4Runner.

The seats are made from real leather. Sure. The dash has different plastics? yep. Completely agree. If that's what we're debating - no question the GX has a nicer interior. And the 4runner has better offroad capability out of the box. I don't think either are seriously debatable, you can't buy a 4runner with heated steering wheel, and you can't buy a GX with a locker and Fox 2.5 internal bypass shocks. I wish I could. I would have bought a GX instead if it were offered with an offroad package and only 2 row seating like the Prado150 and 4runner.

In comparison a Limited 4runner is significantly nicer in terms of interior and options than a GX model Prado. In that comparison does that make it better engineered? It's heavier. It has more luxury features. Fit and finish are better than the GX. It has the same chassis and running gear.

 

[Jetboy]

I in fact, the turning radius is better and the response quicker in the 4Runner). .

It's these kind of statements that spread misinformation. Toyota 4runner and GX460 use the same exact steering parts. Same steering rack (4420060223). Same frame. Same wheel base. Same control arms. Same spindles. Literally everything related to steering except the steering wheel is identical. They have the same turning radius and the same steering response. They have the same steering feel.

By the spec sheets the 4runner turning radius is 37.4 vs GX at 41.1. The only reason this may be true is the GX awd causes more scrub, however the limited 4runner share the same awd system, so... it's likely just a mistake from Toyota. I'm confident they have the same turning radius in the same model years since they universally use the same steering equipment.


The GX has some great highway features for sure. If I didn't also have an RX350 I might have been more inclined to go with a GX. The headlights in the RX are fantastic. I can't remember but I assume the GX has similar self leveling road following HIDs. I had to retrofit HID projectors for my 4runner and they're good, but not as good as the RX. Radar cruise is another nice feature I wish I had in the 4runner. If I were spending my time on the highway I think the GX would be my choice over the 4runner. Just like I chose an RX over a Highlander although they're the same vehicle underneath. But that's a question of features. All of which could be sold in a 4runner if Toyota decided to offer them as options.

 

[Knowbuddy]

I'm lost in the thread .. are we debating if the 4R it's better for off road than the GX460 ? coz it might .. or are we debating if the GX460 it's better on road than the 4R which it is .. ?

It's moved on to is a GX 460 superior because it

It's these kind of statements that spread misinformation. Toyota 4runner and GX460 use the same exact steering parts. Same steering rack (4420060223). Same frame. Same wheel base. Same control arms. Same spindles. Literally everything related to steering except the steering wheel is identical. They have the same turning radius and the same steering response. They have the same steering feel.

By the spec sheets the 4runner turning radius is 37.4 vs GX at 41.1. The only reason this may be true is the GX awd causes more scrub, however the limited 4runner share the same awd system, so... it's likely just a mistake from Toyota. I'm confident they have the same turning radius in the same model years since they universally use the same steering equipment.


The GX has some great highway features for sure. If I didn't also have an RX350 I might have been more inclined to go with a GX. The headlights in the RX are fantastic. I can't remember but I assume the GX has similar self leveling road following HIDs. I had to retrofit HID projectors for my 4runner and they're good, but not as good as the RX. Radar cruise is another nice feature I wish I had in the 4runner. If I were spending my time on the highway I think the GX would be my choice over the 4runner. Just like I chose an RX over a Highlander although they're the same vehicle underneath. But that's a question of features. All of which could be sold in a 4runner if Toyota decided to offer them as options.

Don't forget the 4runner and GX don't say Land Cruiser on the rear though so they are obviously inferior

 

[Itsky]

Just so everybody knows, Jetboy speaks the truth and LX470Mack is clueless.

 

[LX470Mack]

Just so everybody knows, Jetboy speaks the truth and LX470Mack is clueless.

Thanks Itsky, undoubtedly you own a T4R.

The circa sub $35k 4runner must be the equal of the near $70k GX. I'm sure the same material quality and refinement is found in both. The same care and attention in assembly, the same paint quality and interior durability.

 

[tls3601]

Maybe this debate should be over which is better on road and which is better off road in stock trim. There are clearly some differences there.

 

[tls3601]

Bang for buck the 4Runner is the clear winner for the Off Road crowd. When you consider percentage of resale value vs purchase price new, 4Runner is also way ahead. Bummer for folks looking for a good used one and that may explain why so many buy them new. GX loses big time value

 

[Knowbuddy]

Thanks Itsky, undoubtedly you own a T4R.

The circa sub $35k 4runner must be the equal of the near $70k GX. I'm sure the same material quality and refinement is found in both. The same care and attention in assembly, the same paint quality and interior durability.

You have never owned a 4runner so... I guess you'll never see the light. Side note your GX pricing is a little off. They can be had in the $50k range. Top trim 4runners go for the $38-45k so the gap you seem to know so much about is skewed.

 

[Jetboy]

Thanks Itsky, undoubtedly you own a T4R.

The circa sub $35k 4runner must be the equal of the near $70k GX. I'm sure the same material quality and refinement is found in both. The same care and attention in assembly, the same paint quality and interior durability.

The problem with the proposition that they are different in meaningful ways (outside of the obvious feature sets) is that it's simply not plausible for it to be true. It would require absurd actions from Toyota. For example it implies that somehow Toyota knows which steering racks, or which fan motors out of the set of identical part number items are better and then they put the "good ones" into a specific frame that they know will later be used for a GX. It would require that the Superwhite 040 paint code for the Prado 150 be different paint from Superwhite 040 on a 4runner? In the same factory. You can see how silly it sounds for anyone to believe that Toyota would switch between paint products when while both different paints have the same name and color code? in the same factory. But that's literally what would have to happen for what you are claiming to be true. That would be completely inconsistent with the heart of what makes Toyota what it is - lean manufacturing.

The alternative reality that I assert is true is that steering rack that goes in a 4runner vs a Prado is simply random choice and the same robot paints both the Prado and 4runner in superwhite with the same paint in the same way in the same booth. All of the evidence I'm aware of points toward this reality. If you arrange it ahead of time you can go tour the factories in Japan. I've been to a Toyota factory in Japan - but not this specific one. I'm not sure how else I would convince you that it's true other than going to see for yourself. I would certainly recommend it just for fun. But also to confirm that the differences are purely cosmetic. They are all built to the same standards.

 

[LX470Mack]

The problem with the proposition that they are different in meaningful ways (outside of the obvious feature sets) is that it's simply not plausible for it to be true. It would require absurd actions from Toyota. For example it implies that somehow Toyota knows which steering racks, or which fan motors out of the set of identical part number items are better and then they put the "good ones" into a specific frame that they know will later be used for a GX. It would require that the Superwhite 040 paint code for the Prado 150 be different paint from Superwhite 040 on a 4runner? In the same factory. You can see how silly it sounds for anyone to believe that Toyota would switch between paint products when while both different paints have the same name and color code? in the same factory. But that's literally what would have to happen for what you are claiming to be true. That would be completely inconsistent with the heart of what makes Toyota what it is - lean manufacturing.

The alternative reality that I assert is true is that steering rack that goes in a 4runner vs a Prado is simply random choice and the same robot paints both the Prado and 4runner in superwhite with the same paint in the same way in the same booth. All of the evidence I'm aware of points toward this reality. If you arrange it ahead of time you can go tour the factories in Japan. I've been to a Toyota factory in Japan - but not this specific one. I'm not sure how else I would convince you that it's true other than going to see for yourself. I would certainly recommend it just for fun. But also to confirm that the differences are purely cosmetic. They are all built to the same standards.

You won't convince me. It sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that Toyota's entry level T4R is in the same league as a $70k Lexus that shares the platform or a LandCruiser Prado.

It's a ridiculous argument. The Camry and Highlander share a chassis too, they couldn't be further apart.

I'd take a T4R over a Wrangler unlimited. I'd take a GX or Prado over a T4R anyday.

 

[Itsky]

You won't convince me. It sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that Toyota's entry level T4R is in the same league as a $70k Lexus that shares the platform or a LandCruiser Prado.

It's a ridiculous argument. The Camry and Highlander share a chassis too, they couldn't be further apart.

I'd take a T4R over a Wrangler unlimited. I'd take a GX or Prado over a T4R anyday.

We know we can’t convince you, but concede that’s your problem, not ours.

My last post in this thread remains correct.

You’ve posted again, but added no weight to your argument. How does the gx/prado outperform the 4Runner?

The answer is, only in luxury, not performance or durablity.

Why bring the Camry/highlander into a conversation about the 4Runner/gx? Yeah, because you’ve lost on the topic hand.

 

[tls3601]

@Itsky you have nailed it “the answer is only in luxury, not performance or durability”. That takes nothing away from the GX but I think it does sum it up well.

 

[LX470Mack]

You won't convince me. It sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that Toyota's entry level T4R is in the same league as a $70k Lexus that shares the platform or a LandCruiser Prado.

It's a ridiculous argument. The Camry and Highlander share a chassis too, they couldn't be further apart.

I'd take a T4R over a Wrangler unlimited. I'd take a GX or

You’ve posted again, but added no weight to your argument. How does the gx/prado outperform the 4Runner?

The answer is, only in luxury, not performance or durablity.

Why bring the Camry/highlander into a conversation about the 4Runner/gx? Yeah, because you’ve lost on the topic hand.

We know we can’t convince you, but concede that’s your problem, not ours.

My last post in this thread remains correct.

You’ve posted again, but added no weight to your argument. How does the gx/prado outperform the 4Runner?

The answer is, only in luxury, not performance or durablity.

Why bring the Camry/highlander into a conversation about the 4Runner/gx? Yeah, because you’ve lost on the topic hand.

You are missing my entire point....it just isn't registering. You think a Toyota vehicle bearing the TLC name and then it's superior Lexus sibling is the same class of vehicle as a T4R. You continue to make this argument because you obviously own a T4R and this helps you feel better justifying the fact you don't own the Cruiser nameplate.

The LandCruiser Prado/GX has a higher build quality, let's take the refinements....

Thicker paint, more insulation, laminated glass, thicker carpets, thicker door cards, superior headlights, superior roof lining etc....(you can throw in luxuries too if you want, better seats, better leather, real maple wood on the Lexus, better stereo, superior interior plastics)

Performance wise the 4.6 V8 is superior to the T4R engine as was the 4.3 2UZFE. The 4.6 is fit for LandCruiser 200 use in Oceania and the UAE. If it goes in the 200 then it is the best they have to offer. The 2.8 diesel in Oceania that goes into the Prado is also a superior engine to the 4.0. Both those engines are far superior and more refined than the 4.0 v6. Both the 4.6 & 2.8 are both new engines. The 4.0 has been out since early 2000s.

Do you think assembly line workers are going to spend the same amount of time inspecting a $70k Lexus upon completion for imperfections and quality issues than they spend on a mid $30s T4R? Obviously they are.

It is the culmination of 100s of little things that make it not only more luxurious but more durable. That is the entire mentality behind the TLC nameplate and Lexus.

I brought up the ES and Avalon as an example of Toyota shared architecture being far from equal.

Enjoy your T4R. Great vehicles.

 

[Itsky]

Bro. The Land Cruiser nameplate, is just a that.

You just wrote a lot of words and and further confirmed my point. You get luxury features added to the same truck. It’s the 150 platform, before that it was the 120. Same story.

 

[Jetboy]

You won't convince me. It sounds like you are trying to convince yourself that Toyota's entry level T4R is in the same league as a $70k Lexus that shares the platform or a LandCruiser Prado.

It's a ridiculous argument. The Camry and Highlander share a chassis too, they couldn't be further apart.

I'd take a T4R over a Wrangler unlimited. I'd take a GX or Prado over a T4R anyday.

You can continue believing the earth is flat. I certainly can't stop you. All I can do is show you the evidence of the earth being round.

 

[Jetboy]

You are missing my entire point....it just isn't registering. You think a Toyota vehicle bearing the TLC name and then it's superior Lexus sibling is the same class of vehicle as a T4R. You continue to make this argument because you obviously own a T4R and this helps you feel better justifying the fact you don't own the Cruiser nameplate.

The LandCruiser Prado/GX has a higher build quality, let's take the refinements....

Thicker paint, more insulation, laminated glass, thicker carpets, thicker door cards, superior headlights, superior roof lining etc....(you can throw in luxuries too if you want, better seats, better leather, real maple wood on the Lexus, better stereo, superior interior plastics)

Performance wise the 4.6 V8 is superior to the T4R engine as was the 4.3 2UZFE. The 4.6 is fit for LandCruiser 200 use in Oceania and the UAE. If it goes in the 200 then it is the best they have to offer. The 2.8 diesel in Oceania that goes into the Prado is also a superior engine to the 4.0. Both those engines are far superior and more refined than the 4.0 v6. Both the 4.6 & 2.8 are both new engines. The 4.0 has been out since early 2000s.

Basically none of this is true.

The 1GR is still the top spec gasoline engine in the LC150 in every market in the entire world except the USA and China. China has the 3.5L from the Tacoma. The 1GR is even still the most common gasoline engine in the 200 series. So that means it's the "best they have to offer" in your own words.