FJ or 4th Gen 4runner

[Firerunner4143]

I have currently a 2002 3rd gen 4runner, It has a 163k on it and lifted etc.. My debate is when i go to buy something else what should I get. I was looking at a 4th gen 4runner with a v8, but the FL are nice too as I can get a rear locker atrac etc.. or maybe a 100 Land cruiser. Would like a little more room etc.. I know the v8 4th gen are nice little more room than my 3rd gen though the FJ are pretty nice. Just looking for some feed back pro’s and con’s

 

[Combat Chuck]

FJ as in the FJ Cruiser, or a Hundy?
under the hood, the FJC is basically a 4th-gen 4Runner V6, while the V8 4Runner's basically a UZJ100 Lite.

long story short:
whatever flops your mop.

Though I think the FJC has less room than the 4Runner, and with how large the newer Runners are, and how pared-down the 200-series Cruisers are, they'd probably be about the same.

 

[MacLean216]

I have a third gen 4runner and a FJ cruiser. A
re you going to build the new vehicle up or just drive it? How large is your family? How do you intend to use it?

 

[hikervince]

Can't answer regarding 4th gen, but I have had a 5th gen trail edition for almost a year, and am very pleased with it. I drove several FJs and was very dissatisfied, especially with rear visibility and rear-seat access. I have much better visibility in the 5th gen. It has great interior space, but is still considerably smaller than the Land Cruiser. I had it in a lot of rough places out West last summer, and it vastly outperformed my previous Isuzu Rodeo. Some people complain about the lack of a V-8, but I find the 270-HP V-6 to be very powerful. Hope this helps.

 

[Duane]

well I have never driven an FJ yet but I am thinking that unless you want a front and rear lockered version for offroading and or a standard transmission then the 4Runner is the hands down winner.
Extra 2 doors, visibility, better fit and finish, easier to sell as it appeals to a wider audience etc etc etc.... I would assume better mileage from aerodynamics alone let alone gear ratio advantages if they exist.

I think it would be cool to own an FJ but if I had to just put 1 vehicle in my driveway its a 4Runner all the way....
of course I am a biased 4runner owner though
As much as I like our 3rd gens our friends have an 04 and they love it, mileage comparable or even better and it doesn't have the 5sp auto like the 05+.

 

[Front Range 4x4]

I recently sold my FJ62 in favor of a 4th gen 4Runner and like it very much. I'd say the major consideration is what your plans for it are as 4x4. I'm toning down what type of trails I do anf the 4th gen is proving to be a good choice for my needs.

 

[pillguy]

Ditto on the 4runner, wider audience and more flexible vehicle platform.
Why do you want to unload your 3gen 4runner?

FJ as in the FJ Cruiser, or a Hundy?
under the hood, the FJC is basically a 4th-gen 4Runner V6, while the V8 4Runner's basically a UZJ100 Lite.

long story short:
whatever flops your mop.

Though I think the FJC has less room than the 4Runner, and with how large the newer Runners are, and how pared-down the 200-series Cruisers are, they'd probably be about the same.

 

[97kurt]

With the 3rd gen being superior to both Its a tough choice. 4 doors with the 4runner and a v8 option in the earlier years. But there are lots of options for the FJC and from what I have seen its easier to fit 35's in the wheel openings of the FJC. Other than that their suspensions are identical.

 

[ThePNWonderer]

I have had 3 3rd gens. (‘97,’98) I now drive a 2006 4th gen V8 AWD Limited & absolutely love it! However (I do miss the manual transmission of my 3rd gen).
It comes factory with center locking diff. & DAC. Honestly, it will take you anywhere you need to go off road, has plenty of space and great visibility. Performs on pavement as well. - Great road tripper.
FJ are very limited in their use. Not good commuters, lots of blind spots and tiny back seat w/ limited cago room. (They are off road toys)