Almost Perfect
Written: Apr 29 '04
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Pros: Styling, Power, Price, Standard options
Cons: Exhaust Odor
The Bottom Line: I would recommend the vehicle for it's off-road and on-road capability. Design is wonderful.
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| bhogbin's Full Review: 2004 Toyota 4Runner 4WD |
Rather that write a lengthy review about all the features available (see other reviews for this) I will tell you about the vehicle I own. In October 2003, I purchased a Dorado Gold 2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5. I was able to work the dealers for under 30,000.
I was looking for a truly off-road capable SUV and the 4Runner is one of the few that meets this requirement. Another factor was that the vehicle had to have some elegance as I consistently pick up clients as part of my occupation. I was initially turned off by the 2003 SR5. Toyota did not paint the lower body molding on the SR5 package in 2003 and the package looks gaudy and incomplete. Luckily in 2004, this changed creating a more complete package influencing my decision to purchase.
I opted for the SR5 due to a lack of added value in moving up to the Sport or Limited packages (although I do miss leather). I also opted for the V6 rather than upgrade to the V8. I made this decision based on the higher horsepower in the V6 and better gas mileage.
While happy with the V6, I now wish I would have purchased the V8. The V8 is based on a tried and true Lexus design and is much more reliable according to Consumer Reports. That said, the V6 accelerates very strongly and has been 100% reliable so far. Although at 18 MPG, I am disappointed in the fuel savings since the V8 will net you 17 MPG.
I am very pleased with the build quality of this vehicle. Fit and finish have been impeccable. The SR5 has a number of excellent standard features that make me even happier I did not waste $8,000 on the Limited package. The climate control system is wonderful, and something I always wanted. I can now set the temperature at 70 and there is no need for further adjustment by myself - or my wife. I also like the retractable rear window - something unique to the 4Runner.
Overall I am extremely happy with the vehicle. I only have a couple of complaints:
The transmission works well, but sometimes does not shift immediately into gear. For example if slowing down to a stoplight if it changes and I hit the accelerator, it takes a second before the transmission kicks in. Possibly not noticeable to all people, but I prefer an immediate response when the gas is applied.
The biggest complaint is the odor issued by the exhaust. I currently have 9500 miles on the vehicle, and from the first day off the lot it has issued a very strong ammonia/sulphur smell from the exhaust. This happens under normal acceleration. It is often so repugnant that my wife has become ill. I have questioned the dealer on the issue and they inform me that Toyota has told them this is the result of the gasoline not the vehicle. However since I purchase gasoline all over the DC metropolitan area, and from different vendors, I suspect this is not the case. I am planning on taking this vehicle back to Toyota again for this issue. Unfortunately not that it is April, I am unable to have the back and rear windows open due to the odor.
Again, overall I am very happy with the vehicle and would recommend it to anyone - just make sure your does not issue the odor as this greatly affects the pleasure of a wonderful vehicle.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 29800
Condition: New
Model Year: 2004
Model and Options: SR5 with 17" Wheels, SunRoof and Spoiler
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Epinions.com ID:
bhogbin
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Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 0 members
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