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

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner and the 2023 Lexus GX may be outdated in many ways, but they are also one of the best built and most reliable vehicles of all time. Automotive Engineer David Chao explains why these two models - built at Tahara plant in Japan - may outlast all other SUVs in the market in terms of reliability. In fact, David provides solid 10 reasons why these two can easily last 20, 30, or even 40 or 50 years down the road.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@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!!

[@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

[@americandude3825]

Sometimes when it’s that old it’s not a failure on a part tho. It’s just it’s life span. I have a 2008 sequoia 5.7L. 216575 trouble free miles. But….I’ve had to replace the front door speakers due to the originals literally crumbling into pieces from age. I had to replace the ac blower motor at 214k miles. I would say the original failed. Just wore out after 16 years! My paint…same thing. I hope I get to 450k like you. Got the wife a new rav4 XSE (under msrp) last year. Love that too. Pretty solid. I can see it lasting 15 years. But these ev cars…I can’t see them lasting 15 years without a battery replacement. That part is extremely expensive.

[@ashresearcher]

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

[@americandude3825]

@@ashresearcher I highly suggest something. My 2008 5.7L sequoia runs like new but the paint is shot on the roof and hood at 216k miles. It’s been bad for about 25k miles or so.

[@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.

[@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

[@john7912h]

5 to 6 years , what a waste , a lada will be as reliable in that timeframe… lol

[@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 👍

[@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.

[@Jontellis]

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Great video!

[@1SFOD]

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.

[@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

[@GlennKline-yv8pr]

Smart wife..I too chose the 4runner alot because of the rear hatch..2021 4runner limited owner...Lexas gx460 ..tailgating? Terrible!! Coming out of the grocery store "raining" lexus ..nothing to stand under..you get wet..groceries get wet ..hatch door gets wet ..inside and out...inside cargo area gets wet as well..4runner no problem..also towing and or bike racks..bike rack on 4runner/loaded with bikes..no problem...Lexus..remove all bikes so door can swing wide open. No thanks 😢

[@rugged9769]

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.

[@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.

[@jalama334]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@52hydra]

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

[@alexisgilgonzalez9268]

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

[@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.

[@alberthechme4001]

I bought the 2023 Toyota 4 Runner TRD off road Premium because of your recommendations.

[@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!

[@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!

[@mattt7815]

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

[@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.

[@diegoalberto1071]

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

[@kwameg.114]

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

[@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!

[@TOPDadAlpha]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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?

[@derrickaf1]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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?

[@maroonedmaniac]

Highly informative. Thanks Sir

[@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.

[@Bob-wg2xh]

Thanks for the video!

[@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

[@brettgreen9247]

Excellent video. Thank you good sir.

[@kashifrasheed2187]

Excellent analysis great video 👍

[@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

[@slide7132]

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

[@Juan0481]

Excellent analysis. Thank you sir!

[@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.

[@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.

[@ActionJohnson69]

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.

[@mrard1]

Thank you for the video! I own a 2012 4Runner and love it. I was looking at the GX460 because I’m getting older and want a more “plush” ride. Only thing that keeps me from pulling the trigger is the back hatch. Being that you owned a 4Runner Limited, can you confirm the improvements in overall comfort?

[@barbaraarsenault1192]

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

[@alexw.8999]

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

[@scoobysid04]

Another awesome video 😎

[@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 ❤

[@salemk.3098]

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

[@john300k]

Great video, I love my 2018 4Runner Limited!

[@DLewis-pc2op]

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

[@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.

[@aaronaaronso9013]

Great video

[@JohnRuggero]

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

[@tomdepoy3462]

Great video David! Do you think it is ok to put a Pedal Commander PC27 on it?

[@newmexicotransplant990]

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

[@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??

[@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. 😊

[@eugenejohnson7755]

Very good review.

[@AlexanderNatsioks]

Thank you, David. Great review. Just wondering if you can review Toyota models on Latin American market? I cannot find a review which could match one of yours.

[@briankalagher6687]

Thanks David! I love these trucks.

[@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?

[@kellsAC1]

For the past 15 years, I've bought nothing but GM V8 trucks and I loved them. I live in Toronto and drive down to Florida at least once a year. They were great drives but almost all the trucks had tranny issues and electric problems. I've never bought a Toyota and now have a 4Runner and GX. I'm hoping they take me to retirement. I take my cars to 300K and have a feeling that these 2 can do that for me.

[@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.

[@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.

[@yuddytuddy7990]

Thx for sharing, Sir… 👍👍👍

[@JDsModernMartialArts]

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

[@Sippi66]

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.

[@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!

[@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

[@joseanibalrobles8319]

Excellent information since I’m in the market for a 2023 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.

[@anthonyiannozzi6777]

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

[@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

[@abid77]

David - would you be able to do a review on a new Infiniti Qx60 and it's Nissan sibling... I'm curious to see where Nissan / Infiniti quality is in the current state and if these vehicles are durable / reliable...thanks again for your thoughtful insights...I appreciate your reviews.

[@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.

[@baburejaz]

Excellent excellent and excellent advice

[@fredf4562]

Can there be thicker paint on parts from the factory?I was told yes by Lexus Canada if there is a small defect they pull the car off the line and fix and respray ( clear coat).

[@arashefi]

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

[@jay-qk5bw]

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

[@Whatintheworlt]

I have a 2015 is250. Radio has failed but the car itself drives like a dream. 122,000 miles. Not sure if I'm going to keep it or sell it yet. I got a new '23 TRD ORP yesterday specifically because of the 10th reason you listed. That interior is so simple. It has what I need and nothing more. Hoping to run it to half a million.

[@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.

[@artistnyc123]

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

[@ShinobiTekken]

GX 460 will outlast the GX550

[@apollomedia7210]

Why?

[@user-pu8lj8fw7u]

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

[@miltoncardoza]

@@user-pu8lj8fw7uThat’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

[@tonyhaltmar1383]

GOOD STUFF!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@timmynguyen6121]

What about the sequoia 5.7 or 4.6. Engine. Can you do a review on those thanks

[@mrsalviboy94]

I own a 2011 Lexus gs350, the quality of that vehicle is just so good, everybody believes is rather newer than what is it, have had a couple offers but I live it as my daily driver, smooth ride reliable all I’ve done is maintenance that’s about it after 6 years of ownership, I’m ready to put my on a 2021 GX or RX350 f sport, worth every penny, sure you don’t get the latest tech nor the polish interior but you buy Lexus for quality, durability and reliability not the latest and greatest.

[@Kristian_Saile]

I have had 4 Land Cruisers over the years, one I owned and used very, very hard for over 20 years alone. While I think the new Land Cruiser Prado we are about to get in the states is undeniably cool looking and really tugs at my heart strings with its 60 series looks, I realized why get a new, unproven Prado with way more tech when I can get the 5th gen 4Runner which is essentially the current Prado with the proven powertrain and build quality and just the right amount of modern tech yet retaining the simplicity…. And did considerably less money. So we are picking up a ‘23 4Runner in the exact spec we wanted, that was sitting on a dealer lot AND got a $3,500 discount on it which was a great surprise. Another big deciding factor for us was the lack of 3 row option on the new Land Cruiser. Having 3 kids, that was a key determining factor.

[@savagestash4354]

I have a 2005 sequoia with 250k miles, also have a GX470 with 110k, both have the 2uz motor and run like new. Minimal repairs on both, will drive the GX forever and gave the sequoia to my son.

[@CCAROmusic]

Just got a new sr5 2023. I love the car. However, each time I put it into drive from a dead start and start driving off I hear a weird noise that kind of sounds like the hand break for a split second from below the steering wheel and it never happens again until the next dead start. Is this normal for the 4Runner? It’s quite subtle and it took me a few weeks to really notice it, but now I can’t not hear it and it happens every time. I know it’s a truck like vehicle and so maybe it’s a normal sound, just wanted to make sure? Thank you all.

[@jimmyz5831]

I have a Lexus RX hybrid which is also amazing but I think it is made in the US. Do you think the quality is less at the US factories?

[@miked6523]

Interesting. Glad i own a 2023 gx. Where can we get those measuring gap tools?

[@AB-yc1np]

I wondered the same. Went to Amazon, figured it out in 30 seconds. To you.. figure it out

[@miked6523]

@@AB-yc1np My time is to precious and I hate Amazon