Suppose the 3rd Gen 4Runner doesn't exist any more...

ShooterMcGavin

New member
What do you replace it with? For whatever reason, the 3rd gen 4Runner simply is not around any longer. What do you get that is as competent off-road, reliable, inexpensive, tough, economical, etc... I'm wondering, what are the other options you'd consider?

...and no, please don't suggest replacing my $4,000 vehicle with a $40,000 one :) How about something used, somewhere around $5,000-$12,000?
 
Register to hide this ad
I'd look at Monteros, the fullsize 92-2000 models (SR and "winter package" trucks have rear lockers) and maybe a very clean Montero Sport with the 3.5L. Third gen Monteros (01-06) are an interesting option but the independent rear suspension and fluid-sensitive drivetrain turns me off a bit. Isuzu Trooper 92-02 is another option, just watch out for trucks with automatic transmissions and later 3.5L trucks that burn oil.

I recently looked at 2nd gen Xterras, but was turned off by the cheap interiors and poor ride from the rear leaf springs. But they are good bang for the buck with that 4.0L motor. Just watch out for the transmission (pink milkshake just like our 3rd gens), and timing chain guides on the earlier 05-08 trucks.

4th gen 4Runner is certainly a good idea as well!
 
What do you replace it with? For whatever reason, the 3rd gen 4Runner simply is not around any longer. What do you get that is as competent off-road, reliable, inexpensive, tough, economical, etc... I'm wondering, what are the other options you'd consider?

...and no, please don't suggest replacing my $4,000 vehicle with a $40,000 one :) How about something used, somewhere around $5,000-$12,000?

Id build up a Tahoe. I love my Tahoe way more anyway.
 
Tacoma or LC.
I would also consider a Jeep Cherokee XJ. I recently owned one in between Toyotas and I really enjoyed the simplicity of it (1994 model) and the torquey straight 6.
 
Land Cruiser, for sure. I actually like them better than 4Runners... but they are too pricey in my area.

If Toyota is part of the exclusion list, then my only other experience would be a Jeep Cherokee. My dad had one that ran great up to 300K was was competent pulling his 18 ft boat and running around in the snow.
 
I'd step back to the 2nd gen as well.

If no Toyotas were allowed at all, I'd take a 1st gen ranger with long travel and a 4.0 or 5.0 swap.
 
if I couldn't have a 2nd gen then a p38 Range Rover would be my second choice (hehe I have one!)

solid axels, air suspension, viscous velocity traction control.

heres mine:
 

Attachments

  • DSC_1111.jpg
    DSC_1111.jpg
    140 KB · Views: 605

Members online

Forum statistics

Threads
278,310
Messages
3,554,078
Members
248,016
Latest member
Advally Service

Trending content

Back
Top