Head unit (Audion/Nav) difference between '11 and '13

[Skiime]

Hi all, my first post here, but I've been lurking for quite a while. I've finally decided to take the plunge into the Land Cruiser world after being an extremely happy 4th Gen 4Runner owner for a long time. I had originally thought of going the Lexus GX route, but after the redesign, I can't stand to look at the fugly thing. That and since Toyota no longer offers a V8 in the new (and equally fugly in my opinion as the GX) 4Runners, my only logical choice is to go with the Land Cruiser. Honestly, I never really thought about a LC before because I was so happy with my 4Runner, but after weighing my options, It's really the only option...that and I just really love everything about it. Anyway moving to my question. I'm considering either a low millage 2011 or a "right priced" 2013, if I can find either. From what I can gather, the main differences are the new LED lights and the cameras up front and on the sides...and the chrome panel on the side. I apologize if it's been talked about before, but I couldn't find much info. Is there a huge difference in the Head Unit between the two years? It looks like the '13 has some updates and a little more technology to it, but I can't really tell what it is. Is the Nav the same? I'm trying to decide if a '13 is worth the extra $$. Thanks for the input!

 

[texas]

Huge difference in head unit. The new one is way more modern in implementation. It can even read SMS Text messages for you. You can browse your iPhone play lists via bluetooth and search your library via voice control. Neat! Also received HD radio. I've tried enTune but its slow and not worth bothering with, IMHO.

The 13's also have HID lights with level control.

One thing they did change is that CD/DVD drive only holds one disc at a time. I believe the previous gen had a 6 disc changer. Also you can no longer view the Nav screen on the rear entertainment screen. Too bad. It was like riding on an airliner before.

The interior color available for the 13's are black and beige. Before it was a light grey and beige. I liked the grey better.

To me it was worth the upgrades.

Good luck, as a new owner that was on the fence forever, I'm wondering why I didn't get one sooner.

 

[Skiime]

Awesome, thanks for the quick reply. That's exactly what I wanted to hear. Is there only one USB input for the LC or is there another one in the glove box? The only one I saw was in the middle console. Not sure if I would want to leave my iPod sitting in plain sight. I'm a big audio nut and have always done custom audio on my previous vehicles but it seems the '13 has some pretty nice features.
Oh, anyone want to buy an '05 4Runner? Can't decide if I want to sell outright or trade in.

 

[elkaholic]

The only USB is in the console. I personally have my iPod in a black case and run a short black cable. With the black interior, it is not even noticable.

 

[codyaustin5]

I would agree on the '13 for the extra cost. The new and additional features are well worth it. In addition the cooled seats, upgraded leather and all other features now standard like heated steering wheel, rear dvd ect.... One note on the LED's which is a disappointment they only work with headlights on or 1 position you still have halogen daytime running lights which is silly to me.

I came from the same boat always having 4Runners. Wife drives a '14 Trail which I really enjoy driving as well. Good luck with the search.

 

[THEROK]

Simple: Buy the newest, lowest mileage you can afford.

I personally love the new GX and LX spindle grill design. But the 200 LC is king.

I will say that the handiest feature above all is radar cruise control on my '14. I haven't used the DVD/movie thing once as it's still in plastic. The text/msg reading thing is a gimmick, but cool to impress chicks except be careful with content.

 

[Billfish]

......cool to impress chicks except be careful with content.

Haha, aint that the truth.

 

[texas]

You have to push a button to have the Nav system read the text message aloud, so I think you'll be safe.