Hi Scotty,
I'm looking to get a 4WD SUV, and I've settled on either a 2011-2015 Honda Pilot or a 2011-2013 Toyota 4Runner. My budget is around $20k. I know I would save money getting a Pilot (and they have way lower mileage than a 4Runner for my budget), but will an older Honda Pilot last as long as a 4Runner? Anything I should specifically avoid/look out for?
These vehicles are not comparing apples to apples.
The 4Runner in a body on frame build, and the pilot is unibody construction. The pilot seats 7 or 8 I think, and the 4Runner, 5.
The Pilot is a more comfortable people mover, and overall good vehicle. You will want to make sure the transmission has been serviced, as that is the weak point. Overall pretty reliable.
The 4Runner is a real SUV, and the 4wd versions are built tough for off road. I had a 98 and sometimes still miss it, but I needed something that could tow more, and has a more comfortable ride, as I am getting older and drive a lot.
The 5th gen 4Runner is more comfortable than the 98 I had, but it is still more truck like than a pilot.
The 4Runner has a very reliable engine, and transmission.
Maintenance records are important for both though.
Given the same maintenance, the 4Runner is going to last longer in general. They are known for reliability and durability, so the used price goes up, but they hold value well when you sell it.
So do you need a big cushy people mover, or a tough, possibly off road capable SUV?
The Pilot is a car like SUV. The 4Runner is a truck like SUV.
More city and freeway driving, get the Pilot. Option also to get the Highlander.
More off road, hauling, or trailering, get the 4Runner.
Well Mr. Kaizen, congrats on your 5K post! 🥳 I always appreciate your informative and considerate responses (and questions) as well as your good-natured manner.
Thank you!
The timing belt would be a deal breaker for me. According to internet information:
The 2011-2015 Honda Pilot 3.5L V6 uses a timing belt. The 2023 still uses a timing belt. Replacing the timing belt would cost you about $1000 for an independent shop to replace it each time every 100K miles. Even if you're lucky enough for a broken timing belt to not ruin your engine, it can still leave you stranded at a bad time and/or in a bad place.
The 2011-2013 Toyota 4Runner uses timing chain on both 4 cylinder & V6 engines. Timing chains usually last the life of the engine.
I changed brands from an 07 Acura TL to 07 Lexus ES because the ES has a timing chain.
