DRIVEN + VIDEO: If You're Buying A TRUCK, Do You Want An Old-school One, Like The 4Runner TRD Pro, OR Something NEWER?

It's funny. About once or twice a year someone will approach me and ask the following:

"Hey, listen, I don't want a crossover. I want an old-school-style sport-utility vehicle where I can put it into low range and lock the differentials. What can I buy?"

One would think these aren't your typical buyers of most SUVs today. But, you'd be wrong.

As seen in the review of the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, Doug DeMuro points out something VERY telling: The 4Runner actually outsold the Lexus RX last year. And, also for 2016.

Clearly, people are not giving up their rugged SUVs and when you see the following vehicles like the Wrangler have, there's a good reason for it. Having said that though, I've got to ask:

Spies, if you're buying an all-new TRUCK, would you prefer a more old-school-style SUV like the 4Runner or would you prefer something NEWER, like the Lexus RX?

What say you?



The 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is a $50,000 SUV with some old-fashioned characteristics. Today I'm reviewing a 4Runner TRD Pro to show why it's old-school -- and why the TRD Pro so cool.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 5/20/2018 6:21:44 PM

+1 Boost

Yep. Completely analogue. When the Zombie Apocolypse comes or the EMP pulse from an Alien invasion, if you drive a 4Runner, you will still be mobile and able to be part of the Resistance! #keys #dumbtech #zombiekiller

MDarringer - 5/20/2018 6:49:31 PM

+2 Boost

Virtually all modern cars are EMP proof and that has been documented.

A Wrangler pickup would be more what I would want in a 4WD.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 5/20/2018 8:42:01 PM

+1 Boost

@MD What Doug is missing is that some of the other 4Runner models actually have touch lock doors, keyless entry and push-button 4WD settings. The whole line is not the same as the TRD Pro in the video.

MDarringer - 5/20/2018 9:22:00 PM

+1 Boost

Who wants to drive a TurdPro?

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 5/20/2018 9:41:27 PM

+1 Boost

@MD - The TRD Pro is something like $54K CAD. The most expensive model in the lineup. It is not a cheap ride. Especially when you can get a demo model or an off lease of a $65k luxury SUV for that money.

MDarringer - 5/21/2018 8:24:52 AM

+4 Boost

That's roughly $45K US and while not outrageous in these days of SUVmania, it's a lot of money for a "Tacoma".

dumpsty - 5/22/2018 8:30:31 AM

+2 Boost

the loaded top trim 4Runner has a really nice interior & all the expected tech gadgets & larger wheel options found on all other CUVs. And the front fascia on the top trim is way more upscale than what you'd get on the TRD trimmed models. It's nice that the single model can go from rugged to premium effectively with only the specific trim options.

The TRD trim is probably the standard trim for the model in other markets. A 4Runner with 20in wheels, nav, chrome stuff, sunroof would be pointless in a lot of locations outside of the US.