Opinion: Q7 or 4runner for Winter/Daily

**ParadigmTony** · 10-11-2015 10:14 AM

Just figured Id ask what you guys think. I can't make up my mind. It doesn't help they are two completely opposite ends of the spectrum. Im considering a used 2014 Q7 S-Line, and a new TRD Pro 4Runner. The kid in me wants the 4runner, but I already have the A5. The adult in me wants the Q7. Sell me guys..

**LINDW4LL** · 10-11-2015 10:22 AM

Not sure why you'd consider the 4Runner unless you're big into offroading. Otherwise, the Q wins in every category I think- save for long-term cost to own where obviously the Japanese cars have the advantage when looking long term. Even still, the Q7 3.0T powertrain is incredibly stout and very low maintenance, too.

Plus, you can tune the Q7 for an easy 440+ hp

**d1amund** · 10-11-2015 12:17 PM

Also to consider: are you trying to impress your neighbors or needing more of an actual utility vehicle, notice I left the word 'sport' out. Do you need the vehicle to get down and dirty or is it more to haul the kids to indoor soccer practice in a snow storm? If I were to need a utility vehicle or truck, it wouldn't have four rings on the grille, that's my opinion.

**Johnhanson** · 10-11-2015 03:12 PM

My opinion fwiw, if you are honestly cross shopping a Q7 and 4Runner...how could you not get the 4runner? Almost half the price, more capable off-road with one of the last body on frame setups. Yeah, it might be less refined and a harsher ride, but it still has decent infotainment stuff, leather of you want, and everything else you need. I've been underwhelmed by every Q7 I've been in which is why I got my X5, while I honestly have loved every 4Runner I've driven - all the way back to the second gen in the 90's to the last generation. It's one of the few toyotas I have respect for as it has stuck to its roots and is basically a SUV Tacoma. It's a real truck. X5, Q7, pathfinder, almost everything else is basically a tall station wagon now.

**chrissurfr** · 10-11-2015 05:37 PM

4runner all day

**ParadigmTony** · 10-11-2015 07:17 PM

Im comparing the 4runner to the Q7 because I currently own a 4runner. Its time has come. I love my Audi, so I want to consider the options there, the Q7 is the only thing that comes close to a "SUV" no offense the the Q5 guys. But thats a car on a lift kit. Its actually my car on a lift kit lol. My current 4runner has 200k on the clock and has never needed anything but brakes and oil changes. Thats why Im really hesitant to go all in on Audi. My A5 has been in the shop 4x this year and Ive only had it a year. In fact its there now. (Oil leak) I was hoping to hear some Q praise. I do love that I can Tune it... But thats probably the last thing I need.

**Johnhanson** · 10-11-2015 07:39 PM

What year is your 4runner? I'm sure if you test drove a new 4runner back to back with a Q7 you would be impressed with how good the new 4Runner is compared to your current model and underwhelmed with the Q7 when compared with your expectations/price point. 4runners always compare unfavourably in their segments because they are actually built the old fashion way. And that's not a bad thing. It's not like a new pathfinder that is now basically a minivan meant to sell high volume and nothing like its predecessor. That's why Toyota has the highlander.

Funny. I have a buddy in almost same situation as you. Just got into an S5 and looking at keeping/replacing his 4Runner as he's a new dad. Looked at Audi/BMW and decided to save 50k and get a slightly used 4Runner because he loves it.

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-11-2015 07:41 PM

Originally Posted by chrissurfr

4runner all day

I'm with this guy for sure. The 4Runner is more sporty/youthful, rugged, super dependable, resale is really good, I could go on and on. I honestly never see myself in a Q7. The SQ5 sitting as it does it really pushing it for me, but I wanted to mod one. My A5 and Taco DC sport were the ideal package for me. Simply due to the cost, I'd never use a Q7 how I wanted, while I'd have no issue taking a 4Runner into the woods/mud, I'd not freak out about where I parked it, and I'd haul/pull anything reasonable.

Nom...

**ParadigmTony** · 10-11-2015 07:43 PM

Originally Posted by Johnhanson

What year is your 4runner? I'm sure if you test drove a new 4runner back to back with a Q7 you would be impressed with how good the new 4Runner is compared to your current model and underwhelmed with the Q7 when compared with your expectations/price point.

05 Limited. V8 AWD. Im actually not getting rid of it. Refuse. Now its nostalgic. I have the PO for the TRD PRO 4Runner on my desk. Its gotta be ordered because they're building low quantities. Luckily the dealer is agreeing to order it for me with just a signature, and if I want to back out can. However it will take 6 weeks, and the used q7 I am eyeing will likely be gone.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-11-2015 07:44 PM

Originally Posted by Mops@SupremePower

I'm with this guy for sure. The 4Runner is more sporty/youthful, rugged, super dependable, resale is really good, I could go on and on. I honestly never see myself in a Q7. The SQ5 sitting as it does it really pushing it for me, but I wanted to mod one. My A5 and Taco DC sport were the ideal package for me. Simply due to the cost, I'd never use a Q7 how I wanted, while I'd have no issue taking a 4Runner into the woods/mud, I'd not freak out about where I parked it, and I'd haul/pull anything reasonable.

Nom...

Mops.... I think you just sealed the deal.

**DJPardy** · 10-12-2015 05:26 AM

If you want to buy $3k in brakes and tires every 25k miles buy a Q7.
If you want a reliable "beater" that is capable and relatively comfortable get the 4Runner.

**HazeMyth** · 10-12-2015 06:14 AM

4Runner all damn day. As far as depreciation goes, the 4Runner is right up there with a Tacoma. Even at 3-4 years old, they're still worth nearly what they were brand new. 4Runners are absolutely amazing in the snow, too. Make sure you get the Crawl Control feature though. There's no point in spending that kind of money on a new toy and not buying the best option available on it.

I figured all TRD models came with Crawl Control, but according to a friend who had just bought one, that's actually not true.

**Atmmac** · 10-12-2015 08:33 AM

I'd go for the 4Runner for sure. Not a big Toyota fan but it sounds like you have had great luck. Might as well reward the brand that has served you well.

**mozman68** · 10-12-2015 09:24 AM

I think my only problem with the 4Runner would be 4WD vs. Quattro.

4WD is NOT AWD and while actually a lot of fun and probably better in the deep snow, it is a pita on slick surfaces. As a daily driver during the winter, especially where you live, I would probably go with a Q5...Q7 is bigger than my Honda Odyssey...

**HazeMyth** · 10-12-2015 09:46 AM

I've never had any issues driving 4x4s on slick surfaces. People just need to remember that just because you get traction to get going doesn't mean you'll have the traction to stop. That issue persists whether or not you have AWD, FWD, 4x4 or RWD.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-12-2015 10:32 AM

Originally Posted by mozman68

I think my only problem with the 4Runner would be 4WD vs. Quattro.

4WD is NOT AWD and while actually a lot of fun and probably better in the deep snow, it is a pita on slick surfaces. As a daily driver during the winter, especially where you live, I would probably go with a Q5...Q7 is bigger than my Honda Odyssey...

My 4Runner is actually AWD full time. With 4hi and 4Lo options, locking center differential as well. I wish there was some adjustability on the Q7. Although even in 4lo, this thing aint goin anywhere haha. The TRD Pro 4Runner is 4wd though that sucks. But I suppose with the crawl control if I end up spinning off the road Ill be able to get myself out...

**The Outrage** · 10-13-2015 11:22 AM

I'd go with a 4Runner unless you need a school bus.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-13-2015 09:12 PM

Originally Posted by The Outrage

I'd go with a 4Runner unless you need a school bus.

Wins!

**greenturbo** · 10-15-2015 06:27 AM

Q7 was my choice. I've got both. See sig. Test drove the 4runner and it kicked butt too.

Sent from my SM-T520 using Tapatalk

**ParadigmTony** · 10-15-2015 01:43 PM

Well its done! Ordered the 4Runner

**HazeMyth** · 10-15-2015 01:47 PM

Originally Posted by ParadigmTony

Well its done! Ordered the 4Runner

Good choice! I hope you've got some plans for it. The wheels on the 4Runner in the picture you posted are actually the same wheels we'er planning on putting on the Taco.

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-15-2015 01:48 PM

Love it! Black the Toyota, Bilsteins up front for about 1.5-1.75, 1" spacers rear, ditch the rubber for a bit more tall, space 12mm and show me! Check out SCS wheels sometime too. I ran them on several Tacos. Awesome value, and none of that faux off-road BS.

Edit: Sliders too

**ParadigmTony** · 10-15-2015 03:52 PM

Originally Posted by Mops@SupremePower

Love it! Black the Toyota, Bilsteins up front for about 1.5-1.75, 1" spacers rear, ditch the rubber for a bit more tall, space 12mm and show me! Check out SCS wheels sometime too. I ran them on several Tacos. Awesome value, and none of that faux off-road BS.

Edit: Sliders too

Ohhh Mops always spending all my money... Plans include: XPEL Stealth full vehicle. Black the Chromes, Better rubber (maybe wheels lol...), Spacers, Roofrack, rock rails, and investigate the suspension. It currently has Bilstein/TRD monotube shocks on all 4 corners. I have my eyes on this Pelfrey bumper.

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-15-2015 06:36 PM

Originally Posted by ParadigmTony

Ohhh Mops always spending all my money... Plans include: XPEL Stealth full vehicle. Black the Chromes, Better rubber (maybe wheels lol...), Spacers, Roofrack, rock rails, and investigate the suspension. It currently has Bilstein/TRD monotube shocks on all 4 corners. I have my eyes on this Pelfrey bumper.

Full stealth will be SUPER badass! SCS wheels are cheap, and have the certs too. Def a rack system. Hit Demello sometime. I love their stuff. I've run several sets of their sliders/rails. Your shocks are good. You don't need to run the Bilstein coilovers up front. Hit ToyTec. I've run their front spacer/coil rear AAL leveling kits. I'm not a fan of the bumpers unless Wrangler, FJ etc.

Hard to see, but here is my 09 with Yak system, and Demello double round sliders…

IMG_1565 by Audiyos, on Flickr

Last Taco with SCS S6's…

IMG_3605 by Audiyos, on Flickr

IMG_3539 by Audiyos, on Flickr

IMG_2318 by Audiyos, on Flickr

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-15-2015 07:23 PM

Ha, just ran across this. S6's...

Mops on the move

**ParadigmTony** · 10-15-2015 08:31 PM

Originally Posted by Mops@SupremePower

Ha, just ran across this. S6's...

Mops on the move

Well there ya have it.. I checked out SCS I'm more than in-trigued. Not sold on the bumper, just like the led and egress. That taco is fire. But Id expect nothing less from you.

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-16-2015 06:16 AM

Originally Posted by ParadigmTony

Well there ya have it.. I checked out SCS I'm more than in-trigued. Not sold on the bumper, just like the led and egress. That taco is fire. But Id expect nothing less from you.

Hit Vin and tell him I sent you. He's the owner.

Mops on the move

**HazeMyth** · 10-16-2015 06:19 AM

Mops, I'm assuming you've got some contacts that give good deals on some of the parts I'm looking at right now for the Taco...

Nerf bars, bull bar, tonneau cover. That's what I'm hoping to slap on before winter starts. We're waiting on wheels, tires and suspension until these current tires are in need of replacement.

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-19-2015 12:25 PM

Mops on the move

**ParadigmTony** · 10-19-2015 07:53 PM

Just talked to vin. Solid dude. Going with stealth 6 on terra grappler mt. Demello slides, and pelfrey stealth winch. Still looking for a rack. Haven't found a winner yet. Although gobi is the front runner.

Thanks for the help mops.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**Mops@Nemesis** · 10-19-2015 08:04 PM

Originally Posted by ParadigmTony

Just talked to vin. Solid dude. Going with stealth 6 on terra grappler mt. Demello slides, and pelfrey stealth winch. Still looking for a rack. Haven't found a winner yet. Although gobi is the front runner.

Thanks for the help mops.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Vin is awesome. Nice move on the grappler MT, and Demello sliders. I don't know jealously, but I'm JELLY! What type of rack are you looking for? I like Küat these days. Super solid product.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-19-2015 09:00 PM

I want a full length roof. But on a more stealth height. Then if I decide later I can opt for a 40" led bar across the front.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**8T_BoCO** · 10-20-2015 05:32 AM

I have no reason to own a truck, but the reliability of Toyotas is hard to deny, so great choice (again), Tony.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-20-2015 07:08 AM

Originally Posted by 8T_BoCO

I have no reason to own a truck, but the reliability of Toyotas is hard to deny, so great choice (again), Tony.

Thanks bud. I wish I didn't have a reason either. But the foot or two of snow that will soon drop and hang out till april tells me otherwise. Albeit I could definitely winter the quattro. Its just not a nice thing to do, and converting everything between summer and winter set ups sucks. Ill take a vehicle I can drive over snow banks instead.

**ak_siberian** · 10-20-2015 09:15 AM

Not sure what the end aim is between the Q and Toyota.

My choice would be a Gen 2 Touareg with air suspension and V8 or V10 (if you live in lower latitudes). Will out tow anything in it's class (7,650 pounds), AWD, air suspension you can't beat, nothing absolutely nothing in it's class that comes close to the torque of the V10, and a lot cheaper to pick up than a Q. Just my 2 cents

siberian

**SKinBhamAL** · 10-20-2015 09:21 AM

We've had a 2005 4Runner Limited 4WD V8 in the family since new. For what it is, finest vehicle ever made in my opinion. 145,000 miles and drives like new. We also have a 2013 4Runner Limited AWD. It's not as nice as the 2005 as they appear to cut some corners in this newer generation and discontinued the V8 and rear air suspension. But, given the market today, I think you made the right choice, especially with the modifications you want to add.

We did a family hand me down program where I got a new Audi A5 cabriolet for my son's 16th birthday. :--)

**ParadigmTony** · 10-20-2015 03:39 PM

Originally Posted by SKinBhamAL

We've had a 2005 4Runner Limited 4WD V8 in the family since new. For what it is, finest vehicle ever made in my opinion. 145,000 miles and drives like new. We also have a 2013 4Runner Limited AWD. It's not as nice as the 2005 as they appear to cut some corners in this newer generation and discontinued the V8 and rear air suspension. But, given the market today, I think you made the right choice, especially with the modifications you want to add.

We did a family hand me down program where I got a new Audi A5 cabriolet for my son's 16th birthday. :--)

Yeah, Ive had 3 4Runners. My Current 05 Ltd v8 is hands down one of the best built, handling and reliable vehicles I have ever owned and honestly driven. Its at 227k and I literally look for things to fix at this point. Its the reason it will probably stay with me. And Im not even going to pretend I have taken good care of it. Just drive the shit out of it.

Heard from Toyota today, the bumped me a bit. Looks like Jan 16 earliest before I see the new girl. Sad, but luckily I got the old girl still. I suppose I can just have all the parts ready and waiting for her to get here.

**HazeMyth** · 10-20-2015 06:03 PM

So it's going to be stock for like 20 minutes? I like your style! When we bought the Tacoma it was kind of a last minute thing, so we unfortunately didn't have parts waiting for it. We did order quite a few things from our phones while we were waiting for them to detail it though.

**ParadigmTony** · 10-20-2015 07:54 PM

Originally Posted by HazeMyth

So it's going to be stock for like 20 minutes? I like your style! When we bought the Tacoma it was kind of a last minute thing, so we unfortunately didn't have parts waiting for it. We did order quite a few things from our phones while we were waiting for them to detail it though.

YUSS!! Well done!

**talkinghamster** · 10-21-2015 07:59 AM

4Runner. i had a loaner Q7 and was very underwhelmed with the interior for the money..

it drove well though, but for the money I would not buy one.

Thread: Opinion: Q7 or 4runner for Winter/Daily

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