Wishing for a smaller Cruiser

[Bryan E.]

As my 94 LC gets higher mileage, and after last years gas prices, I'm finding myself wishing for a smaller, lighter, more fuel efficient yet off road capable rig. My previous favorite was a 85 Toy pick up four wheel drive. Wish I still had that baby.

Not looking for a hard core rig, but want something that will do medium trails. I was disapointed at seeing the size of the FJ Cruiser, and especially about reading the fuel mileage. It's lack of solid front axle leaves me to wonder if there is something else that would fit my needs better. I love the durability of the Toyota's so I keep hoping, I'll figure out something to use.

I guess, original Rav4 but built with a solid frame and full solid axles like the 85 mini's had, is too much to ask for?

Do I just need to take a better look at this current FJ or is there something that will fit my needs better in the works?

Just thinking out loud here. My best ever vehicles have been Toyota's and wanting to stay with them, but might need to build something custom to meet my needs.

Any thoughts?

 

[KLF]

'85-89 4Runner. 22RE engine, bulletproof, 20+ mpg. Parts are cheap and plentiful. Easy to maintain. Done.

 

[SupraTuRD]

I really like the third gen 4-runner (1996-2002). The 3.4L V6 is a very good engine although the fuel ecomomy isn't the best. I'm not sure if Toyota made any 3rd gens with the 2.7L 4-banger... but if they did, that might be a great option for you.

 

[jmylie]

If you are set on a solid front axle, none of the current Toyota offerings have them. You'll have to look for something a bit older.

The FJC is capable off road but it is not small. Smaller than any Land Cruiser (80 series and up). Fuel mileage is between 18 to 22 mpg, depending.

Joe

 

[joebob2586]

If you want a modern 4x4 that is small with a Solid Front Axel then you are basically looking at a jeep.

 

[steveFJ80]

Maybe an FJ Cruiser with a smaller engine would be perfect - for instance a 3.0L that would yield higher fuel efficiency.

When I go to China I always notice the same car there (Audi A6 with 2.0L, Mercedes S class with 2.8L) has a tiny engine compared to the models in the US. I couldn't get the tech specs on the FJC on the Chinese site but the Land Cruiser is sold as 4.0L and 4.7L. So it wouldn't surprise me if they are putting a small engine in the FJ over there and in other markets. I am not interested in small engines really, but I am very interested in a diesel option!

 

[Rix86]

want something that will do medium trails. I was disapointed at seeing the size of the FJ Cruiser, and especially about reading the fuel mileage. It's lack of solid front axle leaves me to wonder if there is something else that would fit my needs better.
Any thoughts?

get another 85.

 

[toddslater]

Rode in an FJC at his years East Coast Pig Run. If you are looking for a new Cruiser that is capable... and you'll be doing medium trails, you'll be doing them with your eyes closed in an FJC...the FJC is definitley your baby. It is very capable...stay with them (Toyota) you'll be glad you did. Hell, I bought one for the for xmas last year. It's her DD ...right now her last DD was the 97 40th with F&R factory lockers In short, I was very impressed with the mildly built FJC w/lift, sliders, skids, and some tires. It did very well indeed

 

[77cruiser77]

How bout a BJ42. Old school looks. tough with solid axle. Will likely be more than capable enough for what you would need and can do more than a FJ Cruiser with 25-30mpg to boot

 

[Rockrawler]

I guess, original Rav4 but built with a solid frame and full solid axles like the 85 mini's had, is too much to ask for?

.

http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=514048&highlight=rav4

OK... Maybe the engihne wont get the best mileage:

Dont know if he ever finished it, but its a cool concept
http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/showthread.php?t=514048&highlight=rav4

 

[6740inCo]

If you are set on a solid front axle, none of the current Toyota offerings have them. You'll have to look for something a bit older.

The FJC is capable off road but it is not small. Smaller than any Land Cruiser (80 series and up). Fuel mileage is between 18 to 22 mpg, depending.

Joe

Never in my life have I gotten 18 mpg on mine, heck, not even close

 

[steveFJ80]

Why independent suspension?

Were the solid front axles phased out for a reason other than to cut manufacturing cost? That sucks, I wish the FJC had a solid front axle like the 80 series.

 

[Happy Trails]

'85-89 4Runner. 22RE engine, bulletproof, 20+ mpg. Parts are cheap and plentiful. Easy to maintain. Done.

I couldn't agree more.

 

[tromz]

just my .02. Import a 70 series with a 22 r

 

[1911]

Were the solid front axles phased out for a reason other than to cut manufacturing cost?

Ride quality on-road.