ENGINEER EXPLAINS 10 REASONS WHY 2023 TOYOTA 4RUNNER & 2023 LEXUS GX WILL OUTLAST ALL OTHER SUVs

[@WALL-E559]

I have a 2001 Toyota Land Cruiser with almost 419k miles. The paint held up pretty well. Original engine and transmission. I recently replaced the catalytic converter at 417k miles.

[@randyparmesan1383]

Got 225k just broken in 👍🏼

[@phendrix9476]

313K on my ´97 Land Cruiser. Had just a couple hiccups (nothing major) but original untouched drivetrain. Would happily drive it across the country. The fuel may bankrupt me though. Haha

[@ashresearcher]

Did you need to put ceramic coating or ppf to make your paint last?

[@ashresearcher]

@@americandude3825 thanks

[@arashefi]

Good for you. You will see 0000000

[@jimbob2324]

I can testify the 4Runner are long lasting and durable vehicles. Had my first one, a 2013 4Runner, for eight years, and put over 162k hard miles on it as it was my patrol vehicle. Other than routine maintenance never had a single problem…thing was a tank. We loved it so much we bought my wife a 2017 4Runner TRD Off Road and to date not a single problem. I trust the 4Runner so much I bought an Army Green TRD pro 4Runner. My brother has and his wife have a 2013 and 2017 4Runner. My father has had two 4Runner’s, an FJ Cruiser, and now a 2023 Tacoma.

[@danielfair4675]

I've still got my '98 Limited I bought new. BUT 😁, it's only got 70,000 original, garage kept miles on it. Needless to say I've always had a couple other extra means of transportation also.

[@tman4life01]

TRD OR is the best one

[@JoeBuck-uc3bl]

It’s the perfect vehicle to pair up with a small gas sipper IMO. Because of the bad gas mileage. Buying a new 4Runner and a new Corolla would be perfect!!

[@Jontellis]

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Great video!

[@daved7024]

Thank you David for an excellent and fair evaluation of the Lexus and 4Runner. I agree you just can't beat old school basics. 😊 Toyotas forever 👍

[@loriethornton12]

I have owned three new GX Lexus. A 2006, 2012 and a 2017. 17 years of use and not one penny spent on a repair. They have performed flawlessly. I just bought a 2023 GX Luxury trim in Caviar with red interior. Has the towing package and off road package. I believe the 2023, since it’s the last V-8, will be a timeless classic that could go down as the best SUV ever built. I love what I see from the new GX as well. I predict it will be a smash hit. I am on the list to get one. However, I am now planning on keeping my 2023 and let my wife have the 2024. I’ll see if the 2023 can outlast me. I am 57 so I bet it does!

[@blurglide]

Why replace them so frequently? They'll run forever, and after 2012 they're all very similar.

[@panpanaderia2163]

6 years powertrain warranty

[@stephenmendes2289]

Another fabulous review - but more than that - this is the type of long term quality mentality and explanation that American consumers need to make educated purchasing decisions. Thank you David for providing an engineer’s perspective!

[@lawlzownage1844]

David is in Vancouver, British Columbia. But yes, his logic is what folks in North America need to hear.

[@kevinburleysr8168]

I purchased a 2020 4Runner a year ago. I loved it expect the headlight output. I test drove a GX and traded in the 4Runner. The GX is THE BEST VEHICLE I HAVE EVER OWNED. I will keep my V8.

[@CeeJay591]

Had the same year 4runner with the same headlight output issue - didn’t want to fool around with aftermarket fixes and traded to the GX as well. Much improved in all aspects…

[@jimtwyman4034]

I had the exact same experience. Purchased a 2020 4 Runner Limited and then traded it on a 2020 GX.

[@bobsacamano6402]

Do you guys use premium in the GX? Been seeing a lot of mixed reviews

[@kevinburleysr8168]

@@bobsacamano6402 I do use premium gasoline.

[@jimtwyman4034]

I always use premium in this vehicle.

[@4Runner123]

Bought 2022 4Runner TRD PRO thought it was last year. My wife managed to get 2023 GX460 Executive package for all the reasons you stated. Keep it simple for longevity and both have a great track record.

[@shawnc3030]

Couldn't convince the wife to get the GX460 (she hated the tailgate opening out instead of up). She ended up with the 2019 4 Runner Limited. Love the truck.

[@romilataylor6218]

Opening tailgate left to right is much easier- not as heavy as opening up/down.

[@dantorini63]

Same reason I'm leaving the GX for the 4Runner

[@Retired1-b4v]

We bought a 2023 GX 460 Premium Plus in Starfire Pearl with Roya Red interior, and we love it. At the same time, so many other people are complaining about how dated it is and lacks technology. It turns heads and commands respect, and suits our needs. You can keep the Kia and Hyundai SUVs and all other SUVs. It performs flawlessly on Texas beaches with street tires while jacked-up trucks get stuck left and right.

[@ruggedland]

I’ve taken my 2023 GX out on hundreds of miles of forest roads here in CO in last few months and it performed flawlessly. Such a well built vehicle

[@hikerhobby1204]

Thank you for your post! I bought mine last week.

[@52hydra]

Thank you for your unique insights. Picked up a 23 ORP today and this makes my purchase feel a lot better!

[@mtelfer2654]

Hello from Ohio! I love your videos and look forward to them each week. Thank you for the great information.

[@christophersamuelson451]

David another very informative video. Looking forward to more updates on the next generation 4-Runner and how it stacks up against the 2023. I hope you will be able to address tow capacity comparisons. This is a subject I suspect other viewers might have an interest in too. Thanks for another great video!

[@eugetolentino]

David I have been watching you forever and you are one of the reason why i bought my first Gx460 Executive trim. I’m loving it every single day.

[@AutomotivePress]

That is awesome! Thank you for watching my videos!

[@ashfordkofi8933]

I currently own a 2014 GX460. This truck drives like brand new. It's smooth, quiet and solid on the road. Power delivery is OK, though fuel economy is not the best. The only service done is brakes and oil change.

[@dylansran6129]

Great job as always. This channel is so underrated.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you so much 😀

[@brianh2476]

Thank you David for your usually insightful analysis of these two vehicles. Now I have a better understanding of what I should be looking for in a new vehicle.

[@JavierCR25]

I just got a 2016 GX with 38k miles on it. I’ve owned well over 40 vehicles (including an IS300 back in the day), and I must say this is one of the, if not the best all around truck I’ve ever owned.

[@alexisgilgonzalez9268]

Excellent Analysis professor. Congratulations! I’m part of the Toyota family.

[@edmundcharles5278]

Dave : great review of the 2023 GX and 4 Runner! I just picked up a 2023 GX and I am loving gnat silky smooth V8 and limousine-like ride!

[@davidbrandon1437]

I agree. I plan on keeping my 2021 TRD off road 4runner until I'm gone from this earth. Thanks for all the great videos.

[@jkujda]

Because of you and Car Care Nut, we have a 2023 4Runner in the garage now. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! Would like to get a Land Cruiser eventually

[@vx6771]

Thank you David for such a thorough quality review. The current GX and 4R embodies proven reliability and optimized quality, something that the new model GX and upcoming 4R have yet to achieve. As much as I am excited for the incoming GX550, after this video, you make me want to rush out to buy the predecessor GX460 (if only they were available). What a quandary.

[@edmundcharles5278]

The Lexus GX V8 is still available, but hurry before production is shut down in the next few months.

[@jonathanhuynh880]

So Lexus still building the gx460?

[@thomasfranta7028]

Just purchased a 2023 4Runner Limited for the very reasons you stated. I had a 2008 Sequioa which still drove very well. Thank You for your insight

[@cawtaba44]

Always love and appreciate your videos and insight. I’m currently waiting for my new 4Runner to arrive. Can’t wait to get it!

[@elliottcorbett9992]

We pulled the trigger and bought a GX before they change over. We had a 2017 and love the small changes they made over the years. This should last us till we are in our 90’s. I respect your reviews.

[@TOPDadAlpha]

I have owned 3 Forunners..... I drove them to the ground with almost zero problems. Great vehicles.

[@kwameg.114]

Thank u for making these one of a kind videos! 🙏🏽

[@marcvivori1561]

I just bought clean CARFAX one owner FL 2021 GX w/ 29k miles with the Premium Plus and Trailer tow package. Original MSRP was $59,800 and I paid $45,500 after much time and patience. I watched for Domestic Dealers selling orphan GX’s. Most Ford and Chevy Dealers can’t get top dollar for a Lexus when they are up against a neighboring Lexus Dealer. I’m retired and I wasn’t willing to spend $65k for a new 2023. Every Dealer I checked was adding $1,000’s in ridiculous charges up to an obscene $6k. Lexus Dealers are currently asking from $52k to $56k before they add anything. Take your time and look in FL where lower mileage vehicles with no rust are plentiful. They are also cheaper in FL than Atlanta or Dallas. I know I shopped tirelessly. I paid $650 to have it shipped from South FL to Atlanta in an enclosed trailer.

[@stevefischer197]

Your videos are great! Very good information. I plan on buying a used late model GX 460 very soon. Have you ever thought about doing a video on things to look for on a used GX? I would also be interested in where I can get the body gap inspection tool you use and possibly the paint thickness meter.

[@diegoalberto1071]

David is the best Toyota salesman on earth... Wish I could still get a new LX570

[@jameswall3522]

Thank you, you've confirmed all I believe about the 4-runner. I have a 2015 Trail Premium I bought in 2014. It's a great vehicle, the most solid vehicle I have ever owned and is my 3rd Toyota. I am considering a 2023 4-runner before the next iteration comes out. I believe a 2023 4-runner will be a better buy.

[@sinister184]

Just look at the Panasonic battery included in the 4r (probably also in the GX?). They’re known to last 10 years before replacement.

[@AnthonyBanks-fu4xv]

Great and informative video from a true expert. I own a '19 GX and a '14 4Runner. If you prioritize reliability, styling, and simplicity....these are the best SUVs the world has to offer. Thank you David!

[@aaronaaronso9013]

Great video

[@Sheepmansheep]

I prefer the 14-19 models of the 4runner due to having a real physical key and less tech that could break. I own a 14 trail premium....83k so not a ton of mileage but i took it to the mechanics recently to have them inspect everything and the word they used to describe it was immaculate.

[@gtogeno]

We own a 2021 GX and a 2015 4runner... love them both... problem free! I just recently upgraded the GX to the 10.5 inch car play/android auto screen, permanently installing it with wiring behind radio stacks. Really nice upgrade.

[@ChKashifRasheed]

Excellent analysis great video 👍

[@reynaldomartinez4291]

The next generation of these vehicles with their turbo 4 cylinder engines and more tech, will not fair as well in reliability and durability. These are old tech vehicles with excellent build quality. Truly, the end of an era.

[@brkbtjunkie]

They said the same thing about these vehicles when they released the them. And the previous vehicles, and the previous vehicles… ad nauseam.

[@unworthyServant08]

Given a few years, all the kinks in the new power trains will be ironed out, and we’ll be saying the same things about them as well.

[@derrickaf1]

Respect:)! Thank you for another great and very interesting review...

[@JohnRuggero]

Bought a 22’ GX luxury last year. Absolutely awesome vehicle. Hope it will last 20 years or more.

[@donjuanddavis]

David, I have a 2003 Lexus GX 470 with over 200K and I just pulled a Uhaul 6' x 12' trailer last week fully loaded 200 miles at 75 MPH and it didn't blink. I did the same thing last summer 400 miles and it performed flawlessly. The only thing I didn't like about the GX was the air suspension. It was causing me headaches and did the strut masters conversion to coil springs. I wouldn't hesitate to drive this vehicle cross country. I have a 2014 Lexus GS 350 and prefer driving the GX 470 as my daily driver. It's more comfortable and quieter. The only downside is the gas mileage. The GX is a tank.

[@BronxBombers_726]

I totally agree with your assessment. I’ve owned 2 Toyota 4 Runners and loved them dearly. My plan is to buy a 2022 or 2023 Toyota 4 Runner or Lexus GX. 😊

[@TheExpert7.62]

Great video David. I agree those two SUVs will last a very long time, especially if they are maintained. I absolutely love my 2022 4Runner! 5005 aluminum is not only more expensive, but it cost more to work with as well. I believe this is the main reason why Toyota refuses to utilize it in the construction of its vehicles. I really do not think it is because steel resists denting.

[@kubhlubkoj]

Thank you! I own a 2013 4runner and had never fix any major issues on the engine. Always had Toyota Dealer Oil change w Synthetic Oil with every 10k change. I love my Toyota 4Runner. Has about 140k now since bought it brand new 2012.

[@DLewis-pc2op]

Thanks David..............you're appreciated!!!!!!!!

[@maroonedmaniac]

Highly informative. Thanks Sir

[@josesolano1300]

Great video!!! Thanks…. I predict that while available the current 4Runner will outsell both the new GX and Land Cruiser. What will Toyota do then?

[@bobsacamano6402]

There’s a reason 4Runner had it’s best sales year to date, even when critics call it a “dinosaur”. Turns out some people like a quality vehicle with reliable powertrain

[@Mercylyst]

David I agree I have a 2500 hd Silverado & I want to downsize and these are the 2 vehicles I'm really looking to buy it's a hard choice I'm waiting for the 4 runner to come out now to compare the practicality awesome video ❤

[@eugenepluta1462]

I just baught a 2024 SR5, based on his, CareCare Nut and Scotty Kilmer's reviews on this vehicle. I am certain the car will serve me well

[@Tahara-Aichi]

9:04 that's correct about the 1gr-fe being used out of the United States in the land cruiser 300 series and the 70 series as well. That being said the 1grfe will be still in production for years to come.

[@Juan0481]

Excellent analysis. Thank you sir!

[@alexw.8999]

You talked me into my 2022 460. Thank you sir!

[@brettgreen9247]

Excellent video. Thank you good sir.

[@mt00a]

I’ll buy the out going pre-owned LX 570 as soon as I have enough $$$ and time to enjoy it. The new LX600 and GX550 don’t offer much except the reduction in reliability.

[@jalama334]

423,000 on my 2004 Limited V-8 4Runner ..still going strong

[@joemartinelli8556]

Is the 4runner still rolling?

[@jalama334]

@@joemartinelli8556 Yes !

[@jalama334]

@@joemartinelli8556 455,000 miles now

[@Bob-wg2xh]

Thanks for the video!

[@newmexicotransplant990]

Such a great video. Just purchased the 2023 GX and it's been great so far!

[@JDsModernMartialArts]

Im clear up to almost 700 miles on my new 2023 TRD ORP. I really appreciate these educational videos thank you sir 😊

[@briankalagher6687]

Thanks David! I love these trucks.

[@slide7132]

David, thanks for the great video. As a GX owner I completely agree with you.

[@ricardolimberti497]

I just loved the knowledge and passion,i current own a 4runner, and willing to get a lexus gx470 in near future ❤

[@barbaraarsenault1192]

Great presentation. I’m a fan of the car care nut channel too. You both have Excellent channels.

[@dianewright6537]

I find your comprehensive reviews very informative and enjoyable. This question may have been addressed previously but I want to ask about type of fuel to use. I have read and heard that Regular or High test fuel can be used in place of Premium as recommended. Would you be able to clarify this?

[@eugenejohnson7755]

Very good review.

[@elizabethwhite4606]

David, very much enjoyed your in depth review. A great team: The current Tried and True Toyota 4Runner and Lexus GX460. My 4Runner conquers any kind of weather here in Texas.

[@john300k]

Great video, I love my 2018 4Runner Limited!

[@Unfinished_Thoughts]

Toyota is the living proof that a business can be highly profitable while still maintaining high quality standards at reasonable prices. While other manufacturers reduce costs by laying people off and cutting parts’ cost, Toyota’s excellence is based in the continuous improvement of its collaborators through training and continuous supplier development.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Let's hope they stick to their traditional approach. Like all automakers, Toyota has been forced into some compromises due to the supply chain issues of recent times. David alludes to this in the video.

[@scoobysid04]

Another awesome video 😎

[@artistnyc123]

I have the 2009 Highlander with a 2GR-FE engine and is the last year built in Japan

[@fbettr2627]

The 5th generation TOYOTA 4Runner and LEXUS GX460 are built like tanks. Legendary SUVs built in Japan by passionate and proud automotive workers. Subscribed to your channel based on the quality of this video.

[@baburejaz]

Excellent excellent and excellent advice

[@ShinobiTekken]

GX 460 will outlast the GX550

[@apollomedia7210]

Why?

[@DouglasFerling]

Non-turbo V8, less complicated, potentially better built (as implied in this video).

[@miltoncardoza]

@@DouglasFerlingThat’s right. Once the turbo seals mess up, you gotta change the turbo. It’s a hassle. Turbos don’t last long.

[@ericcarbonell9927]

You can fix anything, but at what cost? The 460 is built with excellent quality and design as is the 550. But the additional tech and weight saving changes will lead to shorter times between breakdowns and increased cost of repair.

[@ianwoodul7732]

​@@miltoncardozanot necessarily true

[@jeffhadley3362]

1.2 million miles on my toyota 4 runner and still going strong, no problems and no issues

[@leardi58]

Make a video of it

[@Uno91180]

@automotivepress. David, I recently bought a Lexus IS500 and one of the main buying points for me for as it was made in the Tahara factory. I love the car, steering is numb, but other than that I love it. It seems of great quality and craftsmanship. It gives me the idea that it will be around for a while. How do you feel about the longevity of the is500 and 2UR-GSE??

[@chays19751]

I worked at Toyota in my college Co-Op for multiple semesters and the body fit is literally a work of art. They do it by sound and feel bending doors and panels to that level of quality by hand, not using some magic lasers or fit jigs.

[@Glide-USMC]

We’ve owned our 2008 GX 470 for 14 years which looks, runs and drives like new at 200,000 miles. Regular maintenance and good interior/exterior care have been key. What’s great is you can go to a five star restaurant by night in the GX then get dirty the next day off road. It’s built like a tank (Land Cruiser quality). Next vehicle will likely be another GX.

[@arashefi]

I believe now it’s sunset for the great traditional cars. Thank you David for the review. 🙏🏼

[@anthonyiannozzi6777]

I have a 2022 4 Runner Trail Special Edition and love it, especially the cooler it came with and power back window.

[@timothypdevine]

2008 4Runner. Never a problem. I'll probably drive it for the rest of my life. I'm 54. I've LOVE to get another 4Runner, but why?! It's so sad that people feel like they need to get a new vehicle every 3-5 years just to spice things up. I guess I'm boring.

[@dirtydawg-66]

Excellent video. Just traded in my 2013 FJ with 222k miles for a 2023 Pro TRD 4Runner. Hope it’s as great as the FJ was.

[@SuperLooneyrooney]

I'm planning to buy a 4Runner in the coming months and this nice vid really confirms I'm going to be making the right choice. I wish i had enough money to buy another and keep it on ice for use down the road.

[@yuddytuddy7990]

Thx for sharing, Sir… 👍👍👍

[@nancyclark8503]

I love my 2014 4 runner. Goes to all its regular maintenances and never ever a problem. Next vehicles ids a gx 460, but I will keep my 4 runner.

[@jdub929]

Love our 2021 TRD Off-road 4Runner. Wish I could afford another one.

[@adih2367]

Hi David, another awesome video. I’m debating on buying a 2024 Tacoma or buying the last gen of the 4Runner. Which would be my 3rd one. I’m assuming the 2024 4Runner will remain unchanged and could possibly be the last one of the 5th gen. Can you confirm this?

[@nl86]

Thank you David for your insights as a detailed-oriented engineer. As an anesthesiologist, I can appreciate the need to understand every little detail. Question: can the GX take regular unleaded gas? There are recommendations but there is also real life pragmatic actions. Is the longevity of the engine significantly affected? Thanks!

[@johnmagruder6292]

I have a 2004 4.7 4runner and I love it!

[@lorenzoronpedrique2952]

Most of the information can be applied to the FJ Cruiser too as they share platform and components.

[@pamspencer5733]

The prices are sky high! I've been wondering,how is the manuals acceleration? Hard to trust dealers:)

[@salemk.3098]

great video! where will the 6th gen 4runner be built?

[@jay-qk5bw]

Do you recommend an Oil change on 1,000 or 1k mile on a new 2023 lexus gx?

[@BrianPetersen-l2w]

I've owned my 2008 4Runner SR5 for 15 years and everything still looks and works like new. The paint is still perfect, and the interior is like new. I get 20 mpg in the city (rear wheel drive). Best vehicle I have ever owned. I think it will last another 15 years easily.

[@InGratitudeIam]

You definitely know "all things Toyota." My complaint is that the 5th Gen 4Runner didn't get a 6-Speed transmission. They could have easily installed that as an option for the 2014 model year and newer. I believe that is an unfortunate decision from the marketing department to "drive" people to the Lexus over the Toyota.

[@joliettraveler]

I wonder what your opinion of ceramic coating is?

[@petermayonejr.3420]

Thank you sir for your excellent commentary and analysis! I just recently purchased a new 2023 TRD ORP 4Runner in stunning "ice cap" and I absolutely love it and the attention to detail on the vehicle that Toyota is renowned for, as you just pointed out in the video. This is my 2nd 4Runner; way back in '95, I purchased my first one, a new '95 and got over 350,000 miles out of her. I would never consider purchasing an American vehicle with the option of Toyota or Lexus!

[@tonyhaltmar1383]

GOOD STUFF!!

[@Ill06Taco]

Nobody points out the fact that these platforms have been in production since 2003

[@marcodarko6941]

Loved the video David, thank you for your analysis! We are having a VERY hard time trying to make the decision on a 2021 GX460 Luxury (35k miles) OR a 2023 4Runner Limited with 18k miles. I am also going out soon to look at a 2018 Sequoia Platinum with 56k miles.. decisions, decisions.. it is quite a tough one. All three are priced very well to move them. We unfortunately lost a 2023 Tundra Limited TRD Pro in the last week due to an accident, an inattentive driver that failed to yield.. 45 mph head on, right smack into their kisser. Nobody was hurt beyond anything minor thankfully but I do feel the Tundra was a mistake though it held up very well for the impact it took. However now we get a chance to right the situation as I was shopping the GX prior to the Tundra a year and a half ago in early 2023. The vehicle was not my daily driver for me and neither will the next purchase but my input is necessary. This is really quite a tough choice though to say the least and I didn't think it would be that way as we both like the two models very much. I personally drive a Highlander that I am more than satisfied with so we can't have them all!

[@lesklower7281]

I have learnt something today how well put together Toyotas and Lexuses are put together and l will take a second look at my 26 year old Toyota hilux also the paint work is still in reasonable condition l washed it the other day and it was absolutely filthy and my hilux lives outside in Australia no rust issues