JAPANESE BODY ON FRAME SUVs COMPARED HEAD TO HEAD
We are fortunate enough to own both a 2010 Nissan Xterra Off Road (primarily my wife’s rig) and a 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off Road (primarily my rig). Both of these vehicles are extremely capable off-road, but there are some interesting comparisons and differences.
These 5th Generation 4Runners and 2nd Generation Xterra models overlap for five years, from 2010 to 2015. They have a lot more in common than differences, yet I can’t help comparing them.
IDENTITY CRISES
- The 2nd generation Xterra “Off-Road” was renamed the Xterra “Pro 4X” in 2011. This SUV was produced from 2005-2015.
- The 5th generation 4Runner “Trail Edition” was renamed the 4Runner “TRD Off-Road” in 2017. This SUV was produced from 2010 to present.
Similarities in the Xterra and 4Runner
- Japanese Body and Frame Midsized SUV’s
- Similar sized V6 Engines with 5-speed transmissions
- Manufactured to actually go off-road
- Factory Skid Plates
- Locking rear differential
- 5000-pound towing capacity
- Seating for five
- Excellent Reliability Records
OFF-ROAD GADGETS
WINNER: 4Runner
Both vehicles have a locking rear differential and the ability to turn off unwanted traction devices. While the Xterra has “Hill Descent” to automatically regulate the speed of your descent down a hill, the 4Runner has “Crawl Control” which has the ability to work downhill and uphill, and you have several settings on the speed of the crawl.
The 4Runner also has “Multi-Terrain Select” which regulates wheel spin with throttle and brakes on various surfaces for increased traction. The 4Runner has “A-Trac” which helps keep torque on the wheel with less traction.
Another feature I like on the 4Runner (TRD models only) is the manual transfer case to shift into 4H and 4L, as opposed to the dial control on the Xterra. Sometimes the Xterra takes quite a while to actually shift into 4H, as you watch a blinking indicator on the dash, waiting and hoping it engages.
This can be a little nerve racking on occasion when driving in snow. Also, something just feels better about manually shifting into four while drive, as opposed to twisting a dial on the dash.
EVERYDAY DRIVER
WINNER: 4Runner
The 4Runner is a pretty enjoyable everyday driver. It tracks smooth down the highway with comfortable seating and a nice driver position. The 4Runner also has nice amenities, such as power seats, puddle lights, power rear window, optional sunroof, daytime running lights, lots of power outlets and a well-lit dash. The interior is spacious and control knobs are easy to grasp. It just feels good to drive.
Although the 4Runner is more comfortable and refined as an everyday driver, the Xterra does excel in a few areas, including incredible visibility out the back. It’s also nimbler than the 4Runner and it gets up and goes quicker when you step on the gas. This may be from the lighter weight, different gear ratio’s or something else, but it is definitely quicker and more responsive than the 4Runner.
Overall the 4runner just wanders less and feels more modern and sophisticated as an everyday driver. Perhaps the coil spring rear suspension in the 4Runner as opposed to the leaf spring rear suspension in the Xterra is another reason the 4Runner feels a little more refined and a little less truck like driving on the pavement.
STORAGE AND CUBBIES
WINNER: Xterra
The stock roof compartment on the Xterra is nice. You can throw muddy shoes (we like to trail run) and wet clothes up there and quite a few other things, although it is not terribly deep, it holds more than you might think. The Xterra also has a pretty deep bin under the rear cargo area that fits jumper cables, recovery strap, tools and quite a bit more, and a couple more cubbies on each side of the back-cargo area, great for bug spray, sun screen, and more. The Xterra has two glove boxes and a nice center console for storage up front.
The 4Runner just does not have the same amount of storage but does have a generous center console storage bin and a nice storage area on the passenger side of the cargo area for jumper cables and a few other items. If you are one of the few with the sliding rear cargo deck, you do have a shallow storage area under there too. This all being said, I have to keep a tool box in the back of the 4Runner to store some of my gear, whereas the Xterra, I can get away without the extra tool box.
BACK WINDSHIELD WIPER
WINNER: 4Runner
Okay, this one might seem trivial and you wonder why I bring it up, but it has actually been a big deal. The rear wiper on the back of the Xterra is almost worthless. It fails to clear even small amounts of snow or mud. In fact, it can’t even successfully clear all the water off the window. I took it back to the dealer three times after I purchase the Xterra and finally realized it’s not broken, it’s just a horrible design. The wiper arm applies such little pressure onto the window, it can’t clear much of anything, it just smears it across the window and/or the blade just skips over it. Whoever designed the Xterra wiper obviously didn’t live where it snows.
The 4Runner rear wiper is wicked cool coming out of the spoiler and clears the window crystal clear, whatever is on it. It’s a weird thing to be excited about, but that was one of my favorite things on my new 4Runner. I guess a functional rear wiper is one of those things you don’t appreciate until it doesn’t work.
SOUND SYSTEM
WINNER: Xterra
No Contest here, the Rockford Fosgate system in the Xterra is 100 times better than the Premium Audio System in the 4Runner TRD Off-Road. Only the 4Runnner Limited has had the option of the JBL sound system (pre-2019), although I have heard the JBL system is better than the premium system, people say it’s still not that spectacular.
The Rockford Fosgate system in the Xterra has full, powerful, high-quality sound and deep base, which includes a sub-woofer mounted under the driver’s seat. It is truly awesome. Our kids like to borrow the Xterra just to use the sound system. I have replaced all eight of my 4Runner speakers with high-quality speakers, which has much improved the sound but still does not compare to the Xterra. At least it’s no longer cringe-worthy.
The stock 4Runner speakers have extremely tiny magnets, which produce very little base. Not sure if Toyota was trying to save a few pennies here, or more likely was trying to shave every little bit of weight off the truck, as the stock speakers feel like feathers. Note, the Xterra Pro 4X did get an upgrade in its final years with a small LCD display for the stereo, back up camera and navigation system. Still with the superior sound from the Rockford Fosgate stereo.
OFF ROAD PROWESS
WINNER: Both
From my off-road trail time in the Xterra, limited time off-road in the 4Runner and everything I have read, both of these SUV’s are very capable off-road. They are both body on frame trucks, with four low and high gear options, lots of low-end torque, locking rear differential and close to 10 inches of standard ground clearance.
The Xterra shines a little more in some areas with a slightly better approach and departure angles, being a little smaller and nimbler, stock off-road lamps (ok, I barely ever use these, but nice to know they are there) and better visibility.
The 4Runner shines a little more in some areas like more electronic tractions aids, manual transfer case (On TRD models), pre-drilled threaded holes in the frame to easily add rock sliders and huge aftermarket for armor, sliders, winches, skid plates and other off-road accessories and modifications.
SIDE NOTE – BULL BARS AND NERF BARS:
From my pictures, you can see we have a bull bar on our Xterra. This does reduce your approach angle, so if you’re trying to push your truck to the limits off-road, I recommend you skip the bull bar. We still have a good enough approach angle and my wife likes the looks of the bar, plus feels a little safer with commuting every day through a forested area, heavily populated by deer. Unfortunately, deer collisions are a common occurrence where we live, although we have been lucky so far.
The other accessory you might skip if you are trying to maximize your off-road ability is running boards or nerf bars, especially if you don’t have a lift. They hang down and reduce your clearance. Also, they are not made to withstand impacts or pressure and can tear off and/or bend striking the ground, rocks or logs. A better choice is rock sliders, which tuck up higher on the frame and are made to take a beating. Rock sliders can double as a step, although will likely be a little higher step.
Certainly, nothing wrong with bull bars, nerf bars or running boards, just know there is sometimes a tradeoff for the looks and convenience. Do what you want though, it’s your truck. For example, your wife being able to climb in the truck is probably more important than losing a little clearance on the trail. Just depends on your personal needs, uses and priorities. If everyone’s rigs looked the same, it would be a boring world.
CRUISING RANGE
WINNER: 4Runner
With the 4Runner’s slightly better gas mileage and gas tank that holds two more gallons than the Xterra, you do notice the better cruising range. Also, with the larger cargo area, the 4Runner is just a more capable vehicle for longer trips with more room to bring extra gas and other supplies.
STYLING
WINNER: 4Runner
Well, I guess this is pretty subjective. I love the looks of both vehicles, but the 4Runner has that bad ass factor about it and looks a little more modern than the Xterra. The headlights on the Xterra look a little dated. I do like the iconic asymmetrical lift gate on the Xterra, which actually houses a first aid kit. Neither one looks like all the unibody SUV clones coming off all the assembly lines now. Whether you’re in an Xterra or a 4Runner, you stand out from the crowd.
NISSAN XTERRA (2nd Generation) DETAILS:
NISSAN XTERRA SPECS:
• 4.0L V6 with 261 Horsepower, 281 ft torque
• 15-16 mpg city / 20-22 mpg highway
• Ground Clearance 9.5 inches
• Approach Angle 33.2 degrees
• Departure Angle 29.4 degrees
• Wheelbase 106.3 inches
• Width 72.8 inches
• Curb Weight 4438 lbs.
• 5000 lbs. towing capacity
TOYOTA 4RUNNER (5th Generation) DETAILS:
TOYOTA 4RUNNER SPECS:
• 4.0L V6 with 270 Horsepower, 278 ft torque
• 17 mpg city / 20-21 mpg highway
• Ground Clearance 9.6 inches
• Approach Angle 33 degrees
• Departure Angle 26 degrees
• Wheelbase 109.8 inches
• Width 75.8 inches
• Curb Weight 4750 lbs.
• 5000 lbs. towing capacity
OVERALL WINNER
WINNER: Well, it depends
If your buying new, the choice is easy. The Toyota 4Runner is the last true body on frame, mid-sized, Japanese SUV sold in the States. I don’t think you will be disappointed, it’s an awesome rig.
If you’re looking for used, particularly 2010-2015, you do have a choice between the two. I would recommend looking at the 2013 Xterra and newer to get the LCD monitor in the dash or the 2014 4Runner or newer for the updated body design, Entune, and some other interior improvements. So, I guess the sweet spot looking at these two vehicles used would be 2014 and 2015 model years.
If you are looking for a less expensive, more bare-bones Japanese SUV that is truly capable off-road, the Xterra is actually a nice truck and you will likely be extremely happy with it. It has great storage, functional roof rack, nice visibility, a high-end stereo, locking rear differential and good approach and departure angles. It has a certain unique personality to it that we actually love.
If you are looking for an off-road capable Japanese SUV that is a more comfortable everyday driver and better equipped for longer trips or overlanding, the Toyota 4Runner is probably your best choice. The power seats are very comfortable, cargo area generous, lots of traction aids and off-road gadgets, highly customizable, manual transfer case, sunroof option, looks badass and just fun to drive.
Or if you like spending a ridiculous amount of money on gas, you can buy them both. Haha. There are quite a few facts and plenty of opinion in this article. I hope you found it interesting and feel free to ask questions or comment. Enjoy those trails!
Don’t forget this major point! You can pick up 2 xterras for the price of one a miled out 4 runner .Used toys are way over priced.
I had to pick between these 2 when the starter on my 01 pathfinder with 305K on it crapped out and i didnt feel like dropping the front axle my self or paying $800 for some one else to do it. In the end I picked up a 2012 Xterra ProX4 for 1 reason, 6 speed manual (the V8 option in the 4th gen 4runner was hard to give up). A real single overdrive close ratio not that BS double overdrive crap my Z28 had. All the electronics will never give you the same control as a manual, i cant even count how many times ive made it up a hill or gone through a mud hole that raptors or wranglers got stuck in because of having control of the clutch and the ability to swing my rear end around at will. since I was 16 ive only owned manual transmission, except for that pathfinder (cant complain when it was free), 95 6spd Z28, 98 5spd RCSB silverado, 06 5spd RCSB Z71 colorado, 12 6spd wrangler rubicon, 08 ranger fx4 lvl2 5spd. Ive wheeled automatics before but theyre just not as fun. It,s too bad that no one makes a at least a V6 (V8 would be better) manual, 4×4 with a rear locker anymore, except jeep but the jeep I owned was the first truly unreliable vehicle I’ve owned, also thr 1st vehicle I had to take to a shop, mostly because it was new and under warranty but I didnt want to touch the fiat engine and mercedes benz trans. Also after some research i found out the Xterra has the same chassis as the Titan and Titan suspension swaps are a cheap way to get a long travel IFS, and the VK56 V8 swaps in easily which takes care of the only glaring weakness of the Xterra. Also GMs LS V8s swaps well with the manual as well, alot of people pull the 6 speeds out of frontiers and xterras to use in other LS swap projects as its a true close ratio, good for 700hp, cheaper, and easier to find than a T56.
Thanks for this great review! I have a 2008 Xterra Off-Road (6 speed manual). Absolutely no problems, sitting at 155k miles. Right rear window sticks but that’s with 12 years of dog drool dropping down there.
Been looking at the 4runners – love the styling and rear window that goes down in back for the dog. 2020’s have that big new stereo screen and all the safety features. But really wish it had a stick. Drove a buddy’s ’14 4runner limited and it felt a little sluggish compared to the Xterra. Similar engine specs, figure it’s just much heavier. Really love the bigger interior…but hey, I got a full-sized fridge in the Xterra with the tailgate closed. It’s still pretty roomy. Would rather have a sunroof than the rooftop box.
Also love the X’s Rockford Fosgate stereo w/woofer under the driver’s seat, like you said. The sound is fantastic: I’ve been worried about changing vehicles and losing that. Swapped out the stereo a few years ago for a Pioneer touchscreen w/Android Auto + Apple CarPlay, still has a single-disc CD. Incredible investment: feels like a new car. Anyway…interesting to hear even the 4R’s best JBL system doesn’t compare.
Think you just talked me into keeping the X and waiting for the 2022/23 4runner! Thanks for the review and all the great comments.
The 4runner feels slugish because of torque management programming wont let you use true full throttle until a certain speed. The xterra has it too i gor rid of it on mine and my 0-60 dropped 0.4sec and when my GF got rid of it on her 4runner her 0-60 dropped by almost 1 second. Its usually more aggressive on cars with automatic transmissions which is why a 300hp 5.3L colorado is slower to 60 than a 261hp frontier.
Hey Colin, Yes, 4Runner feels sluggish after driving the Xterra with a similar engine size. The 4Runner gets the job done, but sometimes your not sure if it will. haha. Xterra takes off like a bullet. I also really like the Xterra leaf springs for towing, it handles the tongue weight of a trailer much better. I love the roof box on the Xterra, but use the sun roof a lot more on the 4Runner. I do really appreciate the extra space in 4Runner though for long trips, camping, store run, etc… My 4Runner does not have all the new tech and safety features. Keep wondering when the 6th generation will be released, but already know it’s not in 2021, maybe it will be 2022. I would almost wait at this point, unless they completely ruin it and make it a uni-body or something, but I don’t think they will do that. Sales are good and it is kind of the 4Runners niche to be body on frame and off road worthy. Good luck with your purchase when you pull the trigger!!
What model and manufacture is the Bull Bar on the Xterra?
What model is the Bull Bar on the Xterra really like how simple and clean it looks on it?
Hi Dustin, The Bull Bar is unbranded. I liked the simple look too and that it was all black. If you search “Bull Bar Xterra Black” on eBay right now, you will see it up there from several sellers (for less then $100). I did have to trim a little plastic underneath the truck to make it fit (but no one can see it), otherwise, was easy four bolt install. I did remove the recovery hook to get the Bull Bar on there, but funny you bring it up now, as I plan to get the hook back on there somehow this spring, along with the Bull Bar. I have been off-roading without the hook, but after getting my 4Runner stuck once last winter and needing to use the recovery hook on it, I want to get one back on the Xterra too. We have had the Bull Bar for 9 years and it is holding up great (no real rust ext…). Good luck with your purchase and install!
Thanks for reply! I was able to get all black one off Amazon for $105 which is great price. I got on real quick and didn’t have to do any cutting how I’ve read some others have.
For much more Nissan Xterra is much more car than Toyota in motor and body suspension, more powerful and economical I bought one in the USA and the suit for COSTA RICA that even the FJ40 does not have to do anything next to the Xterra. Toyata is an overrated car nothing more but it is not as good as it is believed.
I’ve had both and the 4Runner is far better than the Xterra. I’ll get probably 150k -200k with little problems with my 4Runner and I got 79k out of my Xterra before having to spend major cash on repairs.
To begin with, it is a bit unfair to compare two vehicles that take 8 years of separation. The last year of production of the Xterra was in 2015 and the 4 Runn er is still being produced. The xterra transmission and gear system is old school while the 4Runner has many gadgets and is more advanced. I have both and I will say that by far I go with the Xterra in an offroad environment. With the 4Runner I had some problems in ups and downs in mud and stone area. The sound system on the xterra is brutal while the 4Runner is fine. …. The comfort on the road is better in the 4Runner while the Xterra is more rigid. 4Runner and had many safety recalls while none in the Xterra. In the 4Runner I had to give him more repairs while in Xterra only normal, oil, pads, tires. So I like the Xterra more.
Hi JJ, Thanks for comments. I tried to be very intentional and clear with the different years/models of the 2nd generation Xterra and the 5th generation 4Runner when making the comparison in the article. Sorry if that did not come across. These two vehicles did overlap for 5 years, from 2010 to 2015. 2014 and 2015 models of both trucks had their mid life cycle refreshes at that point. So that is best years to compare and the years I would look for if searching used. The only real difference in our 2010 Xterra and the 2014-15 versions is the head unit was upgraded with a monitor and navigation and it was rebadged as a Pro 4-X. Glad you love your Xterra and it is still treating you well! We love ours. Just put on some new Bilstein 5100s on it. Ride is much better on and off road and it gave it all a slight lift. The Xterra does shine with being more nimble, better departure and approach angles, and better visibility as mentioned in article. Very fun and easy to drive off road. We too have had really no repairs on our Xterra, just normal maintenance. What a blessing after our previous vehicle was in the shop all the time. Still hoping Nissan decides to bring the Xterra back when it comes out with a new generation Frontier. Hope you have a great Fall season!!
I have a 2001 Xterra XE 4×4 with 345K & a 2012 Xterra Pro 4-X with 189K ( I do a lot of driving). Both are bone stock with tire up grades and daily drivers when not roaming trails or cruising the beach. If you keep up on the maintenance & drive with your brain & not your ego, they will last a long time! I haven’t even replaced the clutch in either one!!!
Well, all I can say is should have gotten a 4runner they run forever and hardly give you any problems I have a 1998 4runner limited it is in perfect shape, not a scratch in it 241000 I keep up the maintenance like a pro. I replaced everything except the motor, trans, front and rear ends, been offered $10.000 for it. I would never sell it, it’s my baby. I personally, think the 3erd gen is the best looking 4runner because they have chrome and character along with nice lines and they can go anywhere. So if I were you, sell you Xterra and get a used 4Runner just make sure you get the 3.4 liter engine I saw a guy on the forum, he had 700.000 miles on his with the original engine that’s insane the best part about the 3.4 is its a non interference engine which means that if the timing belt breaks it won’t screw up your motor. makes you think right. larry b
In my opinion, 3rd gen 4runner does not have the beauty of Xterra or next-gen 4Runners. I should agree with you on the everlasting engine.
Rust eventually kill any car so choosing the very old ones no matter how sturdy they are, is going to be waste on money because of rust.
on the radiator and the transmission fluid mixing together the way i stop that from happening is to replace the radiator every 5 years they are not that expensive. also the aftermarket trans cooler are a little small to keep the fluid cool. toyota made a bad design with the placement of the thermostat when the thermostat is closed the cold water behind it takes way too long to heat up to temperature creating a lot of back pressure in the system after I put an aftermarket digital temperature gauge in my 4runner I noticed the thermostat would not open until it got up to 190 degrees even after driving for 13 min the lower hose was ice cold. So what I did was replaced the radiator the hoses flushed out the block took the new thermostat and drilled 2 1/4 ” holes at the top and bottom put it all back together and now the temperature never goes over 175 degrees and relieved all the tremendous back pressure on the upper hose. it has been almost a year and the truck runs much better than before. the original temp gauge is not reliable if it gets to 3/4 there is a good chance that you will have blow a head gasket. oh i also install a aftermarket electric cooling fan for when i am off road on a hot day with the ac on. i have it hooked to a switch so i can regulate the temp as i see fit works for me. seems to me that the back pressor is the culprit for the radiator failing. just makes sense to me
i have a 1998 toyota 4runner limited its almost 20 years old but you wouldn’t know it when you see it it is in immaculate condition i have rebuilt it from the ground up everything except the engine it has 238.500 miles on it and still runs like new the 3.4 liter motor is built like a swiss watch all i have to do is keep the oil clean and change the timing belt and water pump every 100.000 miles and it will run forever i have see guys on the 4runner forum with 750.000 miles on there rigs that is amazing. i am the second owner of this truck the lady who owned it before me had the oil changed at the dealership every 3000 miles documented on the car fax it has never been in an accident the paint is almost flawless except for some rock chips i have been offered $8000 dollars for it but i would never sell it i cherish this truck almost as much as my les paul guitar it took me 7 weeks to find it i paid 5.700 for it and it keeps going up in value i don’t know what it is about the 3erd gen 4runners that make them so popular they are an icon the benchmark of what a real 4 wheel drive truck should be.larry b
Hi Ryan, Sorry you had so much trouble with your 2007 Xterra. Maybe we got lucky, but our 2010 has had zero repairs beyond normal maintenance. Consumer Reports rates the specific year 2010 Xterra as one of the most reliable used midsized SUVs, but obviously, there are always exceptions. With the $10,000 dollar price difference between a comparably equipped Xterra and 4Runner, 4Runner does have a nicer overall build quality. I like the 4Runner much more as an everyday driver, but off-road I almost enjoy the Xterra a little more, just because of its nimble size and great visibility. The Xterra feels a little more like driving a Jeep Wrangler off road, and not as much like a tank. But they are both capable and fun for sure. Thanks for your feedback on the article. Enjoy that 2018 4Runner! I have been overall extremely happy with mine so far!!
Well said $10,000 difference on same year model I’ll leave it there. Owner of 2010 off road . Just got back from Moab . Fins and things on stock vehicle DONE!
Had an 2007 xterra i must say garbage!!! I got a 2018 4runner after the xterra blew their were way to many problems.
I’d wager that Ryan’s issue was the dreaded SMOD, which not only affected the Xterra but the Frontier too. Other males and models has it as well. Cost cutting (Toyota is guilty of this too) lead to the idea of running the auto trans fluid and engine coolant in the same radiator and over time the thin aluminum wall breaks down and causes auto trans failure.
This was a super easy fix (loop the trans lines or get an external cooler) but majority of those who aren’t mechanically inclined learned this the hard way.
With that said, I love my 2007 Xterra. One of the extremely few SUVs that you could get in a manual! No issues other than a evap ($40). It’s going on 170k without a hiccup!
I have a 2007 Xterra with $120k miles. Mostly stock except for rock sliders. It’s a manual and going strong. I don’t do serious off-roading very often but when I do it’s next to modified 4Runners, land rovers, and rubicons. I love the Xterra more than my super-fun wrangler for sure.