TRD Pro Vs Platinum

[tpmacleod]

I’ve been a long time 4Runner owner with five under my belt. My current 4Runner is a 2014 Limited. The 6th Gen will be my first new purchase. Originally, I put in an order for a Limited but I am not fond of all the chrome. I’ve now switched to a Platinum order and took one for a test drive the other day. It is an awesome drive. I saw a TRD Pro on a lot the day after and loved the look.

Figuring this will be my last SUV purchase for many years to come, I am trying to figure out which model I will be most happy with. At first thought, I wanted the Limited for the third row. But soon my kids will be too big to utilize that space. I moved over to the Platinum for the blackout features and a more premium look and feel. However, the TRD Pro looks so much better.

Besides the four wheel drive capabilities, what are the pros and cons of the two models? I’m looking at creature comforts like sound system, heated and cooled seats, dual climate and of course drivability on the street as a daily driver.

I have looked for some comparative videos but haven’t found one.

I appreciate people’s thoughts, insights and personal experiences.

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[elecfuyu]

Hi Friend from Vancouver.

The real difference between the two is the off-road ability and Full time 4x4.

TRD Pro has fox shocks (for offroad), rear lockers, sway bar disconnect, rigid fog lights, TRD intake.
Platinum has adaptive suspension, no rear locker (ATTRACK system), no sway bar disconnect, regular fog.

TRD Pro is Rear wheel drive. 18inch wheel with AT tires.
Platinum has Full time 4x4. 20inch wheel with Street tires.

other than those, anything else is basically the same just some asthetic difference.

It really comes down to ur choce if you are going to take it serious off-road.
Platinum is pretty capable off-road too, just need some good tires to go with it, and maybe smaller wheel. But def won't comepare to the TRD-Pro stock vs stock.

I personally chose the Platinum for the Full-time 4x4 due to rain and light snow in Vancouver, and also I didn't want to wait for the TRD-Pro and it's premuim price tag.

Also you can always change the asthetics on the platinum to look like TRD-Pro if you want.

If you are looking for comparison on youtube, recommand searching Limited as there is not many reviews on Platinum. Reviews on the Limited would be the same just not for the hybrid system.

 

[TRD Pro or Die Trying]

I’ve been a long time 4Runner owner with five under my belt. My current 4Runner is a 2014 Limited. The 6th Gen will be my first new purchase. Originally, I put in an order for a Limited but I am not fond of all the chrome. I’ve now switched to a Platinum order and took one for a test drive the other day. It is an awesome drive. I saw a TRD Pro on a lot the day after and loved the look.

Figuring this will be my last SUV purchase for many years to come, I am trying to figure out which model I will be most happy with. At first thought, I wanted the Limited for the third row. But soon my kids will be too big to utilize that space. I moved over to the Platinum for the blackout features and a more premium look and feel. However, the TRD Pro looks so much better.

Besides the four wheel drive capabilities, what are the pros and cons of the two models? I’m looking at creature comforts like sound system, heated and cooled seats, dual climate and of course drivability on the street as a daily driver.

I have looked for some comparative videos but haven’t found one.

I appreciate people’s thoughts, insights and personal experiences.

Tim, I don't think I'll be able to give any great insights, but I thought I'd chime in because I am currently struggling with the same decision. I'm also torn between the Platinum and the Pro. I currently drive a 2007 4Runner Limited and I'm excited and ready to upgrade to either the Platinum or the Pro.
In practical terms, the Platinum is the better choice for me. I live in Florida and would rarely, if ever, need the off-road prowess that the Pro provides. I love the blacked out look of the Platinum, the leather seats, the HUD, the adaptive variable suspension, etc... For months I was set on getting a Platinum (Underground is my preference).
But then guys like @Badkarma8541 and others started posting pictures of their new Pro's.....and they look so damn nice! Then I started watching every 2025 TRD Pro video ever created and the heart wants what the heart wants. The Pro's stance is so aggressive and it just looks awesome!
So, what do I do? Get the less expensive, more practical Platinum that really fits my lifestyle better (and is still a really awesome SUV)...... or get the Pro because that's what I really want but I wouldn't really use the features that it's built for and is significantly more expensive?? It's a tough decision. It's a significant amount of additional money for my household to go all the way to the Pro.
So what is holding me back? Why am I not in a new 2025 4Runner right now? Well, two reasons. The Platinum's are simply not available anywhere around me right now, but really the more accurate reason is I'm saving more pennies to probably upgrade to the Pro. I have driven my previous 4Runner for almost 20 years and plan to drive the next one for 20 years, so you might as well get what you really want. Right?

 

[Nodak]

the only major difference is do you want FT4WD or PT4WD (each type of system has pro's an con's)

outside of that its just minor QoL differences between the two

cosmetics and princess features vs off road features

 

[Dr_Al]

I'm in the same boat. To me it comes down to color. The Pro comes in a very limited number of colors. If you want red you can't get it. My Rav4 is AWD while my Tundra has a switch. I really don't have a preference towards one or the other. I do want a rear locker but I can install one myself.

I do like the extra ground clearance of the pro. Being way up north a foot of snow isn't unusual. There's usually 4 or 5 days a year when I get home and the Rav4 struggles. The Platinum would do much better but the Pro would be a better choice.

 

[jiggie]

Unless you’re gonna make use of the full off-road capabilities of the pro, stick with the platinum.

We have the platinum and love it. I mean, it’s pretty much the “luxury” 4Runner with all the extra features exclusive to it and is still off-road capable, but not to the extent of the TRD Pro.

It’s also several thousand cheaper. The only downside is the platinum seems to be the rarest of the trims, so be prepared to do a lot of hunting and or waiting to secure one.

 

[tpmacleod]

Hi Friend from Vancouver.

The real difference between the two is the off-road ability and Full time 4x4.

TRD Pro has fox shocks (for offroad), rear lockers, sway bar disconnect, rigid fog lights, TRD intake.
Platinum has adaptive suspension, no rear locker (ATTRACK system), no sway bar disconnect, regular fog.

TRD Pro is Rear wheel drive. 18inch wheel with AT tires.
Platinum has Full time 4x4. 20inch wheel with Street tires.

other than those, anything else is basically the same just some asthetic difference.

It really comes down to ur choce if you are going to take it serious off-road.
Platinum is pretty capable off-road too, just need some good tires to go with it, and maybe smaller wheel. But def won't comepare to the TRD-Pro stock vs stock.

I personally chose the Platinum for the Full-time 4x4 due to rain and light snow in Vancouver, and also I didn't want to wait for the TRD-Pro and it's premuim price tag.

Also you can always change the asthetics on the platinum to look like TRD-Pro if you want.

If you are looking for comparison on youtube, recommand searching Limited as there is not many reviews on Platinum. Reviews on the Limited would be the same just not for the hybrid system.

Thanks for the thorough reply. Have you already picked up your Platinum? It is such a hard choice. I will never use the full capabilities of the TRD Pro but I do really like the look. I started to modify my Limited into a TRD Pro but stopped when the front end switch was looking a bit too complicated and expensive for me.

I loved the feel of driving the Platinum. Immediately I knew it was a 4Runner when driving it. The vehicle felt so familiar but with a lot of upgrades. I was a little disappointed with the digital rearview mirror as my aftermarket Wolfbox is bigger with better resolution. The heads-up display also seemed a bit weak as well. The viewing angle was off and I could not see the display unless I was slouching. I am sure there is an an adjustment somewhere.

The one area I may get stuck on is the blue seating. I do like my black.

 

[tpmacleod]

Tim, I don't think I'll be able to give any great insights, but I thought I'd chime in because I am currently struggling with the same decision. I'm also torn between the Platinum and the Pro. I currently drive a 2007 4Runner Limited and I'm excited and ready to upgrade to either the Platinum or the Pro.
In practical terms, the Platinum is the better choice for me. I live in Florida and would rarely, if ever, need the off-road prowess that the Pro provides. I love the blacked out look of the Platinum, the leather seats, the HUD, the adaptive variable suspension, etc... For months I was set on getting a Platinum (Underground is my preference).
But then guys like @Badkarma8541 and others started posting pictures of their new Pro's.....and they look so damn nice! Then I started watching every 2025 TRD Pro video ever created and the heart wants what the heart wants. The Pro's stance is so aggressive and it just looks awesome!
So, what do I do? Get the less expensive, more practical Platinum that really fits my lifestyle better (and is still a really awesome SUV)...... or get the Pro because that's what I really want but I wouldn't really use the features that it's built for and is significantly more expensive?? It's a tough decision. It's a significant amount of additional money for my household to go all the way to the Pro.
So what is holding me back? Why am I not in a new 2025 4Runner right now? Well, two reasons. The Platinum's are simply not available anywhere around me right now, but really the more accurate reason is I'm saving more pennies to probably upgrade to the Pro. I have driven my previous 4Runner for almost 20 years and plan to drive the next one for 20 years, so you might as well get what you really want. Right?

Well it sounds like you are stuck in exactly the same spot as I am. It is near impossible to get any hybrid up in Canada. The one that I did see was 10K over MSRP for a used one. If I am spending that type of money, I want new and a TRD Pro. I have driven my 2014 for almost 10 years and drove my 2005 for about 8. I have deposits at a few dealerships and it seems no one can control what inventory they are getting. There are some dealerships not accepting deposits on hybrids. It may come down to what comes in first and how bad I want the vehicle at that moment.

 

[tpmacleod]

the only major difference is do you want FT4WD or PT4WD (each type of system has pro's an con's)

outside of that its just minor QoL differences between the two

cosmetics and princess features vs off road features

I kind of want both. But definitely like the look of the TRD Pro better.

 

[tpmacleod]

Unless you’re gonna make use of the full off-road capabilities of the pro, stick with the platinum.

We have the platinum and love it. I mean, it’s pretty much the “luxury” 4Runner with all the extra features exclusive to it and is still off-road capable, but not to the extent of the TRD Pro.

It’s also several thousand cheaper. The only downside is the platinum seems to be the rarest of the trims, so be prepared to do a lot of hunting and or waiting to secure one.

Thanks for the information. I didn't realize that the Platinum was the hardest to get. It may come down to which model comes in first. Wait times are up to a year (or more) in Vancouver.

 

[tpmacleod]

I'm in the same boat. To me it comes down to color. The Pro comes in a very limited number of colors. If you want red you can't get it. My Rav4 is AWD while my Tundra has a switch. I really don't have a preference towards one or the other. I do want a rear locker but I can install one myself.

I do like the extra ground clearance of the pro. Being way up north a foot of snow isn't unusual. There's usually 4 or 5 days a year when I get home and the Rav4 struggles. The Platinum would do much better but the Pro would be a better choice.

I am pretty simple with the colours. Looking for black or underground. I am on the fence with the blue interior of the Platinum. I am not too worried about snow where we live but of course, I always want to be prepared!

 

[jiggie]

Thanks for the information. I didn't realize that the Platinum was the hardest to get. It may come down to which model comes in first. Wait times are up to a year (or more) in Vancouver.

Can you get something from the Seattle area and bring it back, or would that be a customs/import nightmare?

 

[tpmacleod]

I am in California right now and might pop into a dealership to get some information. I am sure the demand in Seattle may be just as high as Vancouver. I feel the conversation alone would put the vehicle's price above what I can get in Canada. I will play around with the numbers. I also have not idea what duty is on a vehicle when crossing the border.

 

[BillyG4Runner6G]

I’ve been a long time 4Runner owner with five under my belt. My current 4Runner is a 2014 Limited. The 6th Gen will be my first new purchase. Originally, I put in an order for a Limited but I am not fond of all the chrome. I’ve now switched to a Platinum order and took one for a test drive the other day. It is an awesome drive. I saw a TRD Pro on a lot the day after and loved the look.

Figuring this will be my last SUV purchase for many years to come, I am trying to figure out which model I will be most happy with. At first thought, I wanted the Limited for the third row. But soon my kids will be too big to utilize that space. I moved over to the Platinum for the blackout features and a more premium look and feel. However, the TRD Pro looks so much better.

Besides the four wheel drive capabilities, what are the pros and cons of the two models? I’m looking at creature comforts like sound system, heated and cooled seats, dual climate and of course drivability on the street as a daily driver.

I have looked for some comparative videos but haven’t found one.

I appreciate people’s thoughts, insights and personal experiences.

I was very fortunate to get my TRD PRO and I absolutely love this thing for it's Off Road prowess and all of the off-road capabilities. I was initially drawn to the aggressive look and this thing is a beast. I have no plans to beat this thing up off roading it any time soon. I am still trying to get use to my shiny new toy, plus I haven't even engaged 4x4, rear locker or disconnected my sway bar yet. I have modified every vehicle I have ever owned to some degree, and it is refreshing to have finally found a vehicle that is pretty close to perfect. To be honest, I will be adding a few mods to this baby but I will keep it pretty simple and stock looking. I have some Westscott Designs rock sliders on the way and down the road I will be adding larger tires (Nitto Recon Grappler 295/70R18) to my stock wheels and possibly adding a Westscott pre-collar lift.

If you know you will be driving on road pretty much 100% of the time and never plan to drive on the beach, go mudding or rock crawling I would consider the Platinum. Having more color choices, full-time four-wheel drive, smoother ride and power running boards are all things to love. I think you may like the look of a smooth hood line too. Don't get me wrong I love the look of a hood scoop, but I wish they would have integrated the hood scoop into the hood a little cleaner like the 5th gen instead of just plopping this sharp-edged box on it. I would prefer a smoother scoop because this thing is in your face and holds water in all the grooves and channels. Would it kill Toyota to actually make a functional hood scoop? At least make it a heat extractor even though and true intake would have been a killer way to go.
Best of luck in your choice. I don't think you can go wrong with either one. If you are someone that doesn't modify your SUV's and just enjoy a daily driver that can do it all than the Platinum sound like the one.

 

[Everybodyduck]

It is not about money. Anyone who can afford a Platinum can easily afford a Pro if that is what they desire. Without the air dam, the vehicles are nearly identical. Both are capable of massive tires. The Pro is the better rock crawler if you're that hardcore. The Platinum is more comfortable and road-friendly, with enormous off-road capability. The high-gloss plastic flares on the Pro were a design error. The matte is a better look on the lower trims. The same color flare on the Platinum looks premium.

I can tell you that I have also owned several 4Runners over multiple generations, beginning with a Gen 1. I had the opportunity to explore both the Pro and the Platinum before purchase. The Platinum reminded me of why I fell in love with the 4Runner to begin with. It is the most luxurious, most powerful, and most tech-advanced 4Runner to ever come off the assembly line in Japan. I bought it on the spot and absolutely love the truck.

I would add that it was individuals on this site who provided me with the allocation chart information that made it possible for me to locate an available Platinum. I had another 4Runner specked out that was going to be delivered in mid-July, but when I found this Heritage Blue Platinum on July 1st, the quest ended and the journey began. Good luck, and here's hoping you're as satisfied as I am with your purchase.

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