Strengths
- Reliability is segment-leading by a wide margin
- Off-road capability rivals Wrangler at less cost
- Resale holds value remarkably
- TRD Pro is a future classic in real time
Weaknesses
- On-road dynamics are 1990s-grade
- 5-speed automatic is ancient
- Interior is dated late in life
- Fuel economy is poor
Notable tech
- Body-on-frame (still)
- KDSS sway-bar disconnect
- Crawl Control
- Multi-Terrain Select
- TRD Pro with Fox internal-bypass shocks
- Manual transfer case (TRD Off-Road Pro)
Common issues
- Lower ball joint wear
- Pinion seal leaks
- Rear differential breather contamination
- KDSS valve seizing
Used-market budget
$30,000
Typical price point for a well-maintained example with full service history. Cars priced significantly below this often require remedial work.