Looking for new multi purpose Toyota

[Martinjmpr]

I think the key is your use of the term "multi-purpose." To me that nixes the FJC because the FJC isn't really a "multi purpose" vehicle, though it's a superb single-purpose vehicle.

If you aren't finding a 4runner you like in your area, I'd say cast a wider net, or consider used.

 

[SWITAWI]

Mostly I agree with Martin. But I'd amend the above to say the FJC is a fine multi-purpose vehicle, just for fewer people than the OP has in his life to consider, lol. Maybe that's too fine a point, but when my stock FJC can get me down 65mi of deserted soft beach and is comfortably capable of triple-digit passing maneuvers on the interstate highway coming home, that's pretty 'multi-purpose' for a flatlander like me. But I will agree that it is not AS multi-purpose as the more roomy/convenient/economical (not to mention expensive) 4Runner or utilitarian Tacoma with its pickup bed.
:ylsmoke:
Casting a wider net or considering used is a always good thing. I live in Central/South Texas and found my truck in Virginia via CarMax. Lightly used '08 model with 12k miles on it back in '10. The final price justified their transfer fee which was cheaper than a one-way plane ticket at the time. Never limit your options, because you're only cheating yourself of possibly finding 'just the right one'.
:safari-rig:
And to earlier comments about the A750F transmission in the 4Runner/FJC/Taco lineup. Doesn't that tranny date back to the 4th-Gen 4Runners, 1st-Gen Tundra/Sequoia, and 100-Series Land Cruisers? All of which could be had with the 4.7L V8? I figure with that in mind the 5-speed auto should be at least as durable as the 4.0L V6 it's bolted to in these newer trucks. Except for its inherent indecision in choosing gears for passing, I have no issues with mine. Some of the guys down here running heavier 33/35in tires will see the A/T Temp warning light come on after extended hard beach driving in soft sand, but on lighter stock-sized running gear I've yet to have that happen to me.

Take the whole family and get in and out of the FJ a few times... I know our weekend trips we are in and out a lot.....

That would definitely put some things in perspective!

 

[Martinjmpr]

And to earlier comments about the A750F transmission in the 4Runner/FJC/Taco lineup. Doesn't that tranny date back to the 4th-Gen 4Runners, 1st-Gen Tundra/Sequoia, and 100-Series Land Cruisers? All of which could be had with the 4.7L V8? I figure with that in mind the 5-speed auto should be at least as durable as the 4.0L V6 it's bolted to in these newer trucks. Except for its inherent indecision in choosing gears for passing, I have no issues with mine. Some of the guys down here running heavier 33/35in tires will see the A/T Temp warning light come on after extended hard beach driving in soft sand, but on lighter stock-sized running gear I've yet to have that happen to me.

Did the 100 ever get the 5 speed? I know the Sequoia did starting in 2005, and I presume the Tundra got it then as well.

I test drove a 2001 100 series when I was shopping for my 4runner and I'm pretty sure it had a 4 speed auto (maybe the same A340 that was in the 3rd gen 4runner?) Felt like a tank, very solid, but I couldn't get past the poor MPG. Very nice interior, though.

 

[SWITAWI]

Did the 100 ever get the 5 speed?...

I found a list of models with the A750 transmission (E & F Variants) - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_A_transmission#A7xx

 

[SIZZLE]

I'm in the same boat as you with very similar requirements. I'm leaning toward the Tacoma due to price, cargo space, and visability. The cargo area in the 4Runner is very poor for the size vehicle it is and you feel like you're in a bunker. For me, the biggest drawback on the Tacoma DCSB is the 127" wheel base. Good luck!

 

[TaoZero]

My wife has a 5th Gen 4Runner and I have a new DCSB OR Tacoma. We take the 4Runner everywhere usually since it is WAY more comfortable. I would gladly pay the price tag of a 4Runner if all the goodies it has came in the Tacoma. I was debating on which vehicle to build into an expo rig and decided on the Tacoma vs the 4Runner because I like having the bed available for gear.

 

[Ace Brown]

Another Toyota you might take a look at is the first gen Tundra in a double cab. It's not much bigger than the current Taco and can be had with the 4.7 V8. I had an 03 ext cab and really liked it except for the dismal mileage.


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[Sport43537]

I took my tape measure to the dealer and measured the rear room in the Taco DC , 4runner, and FJ. With front seat in furthest back position, the FJ had 2" more leg room than Taco. Side to side was nearly identical. 4 runner had a lot more leg room in rear seat. The rear of the FJ compared to the cargo area of 4runner was also very close, but the 4runner has 4 more inches of room (tail gate to rear seat). The FJ rear opening had 4 inches more clearance (top to floor) than 4runner with 3rd row. Side to side was identical. The rear doors on the FJ are awkward, but they do open a full 90 degrees. It does feel like in your in a cave in the back seat. 4runner has a lot more leg room in rear seat and easier to get in and out of, but the FJ entry/exit wasn't bad at all. Driving all 3, I liked the FJ the best by a big margin. More head room than 4 runner, great front visibility, blind spots suck, but the FJ seemed but more athletic than 4runner. 4runner felt like a station wagon. Taco has second favorite. The only thing I didn't like about Taco was the doors felt paper thin and the "C" channel from didn't inspire confidence. However, I do recognize the Taco is an extremely durable truck (used by SF says a lot to me!!!). The 4runner rear view camera also didn't make since, since it was in the center stack (nav screen). I liked the rear view on the rear mirror in the FJ much better. I loved the new 2014 wheels on the FJ. The biggest attractions to the FJ are "fun to drive" (except blind spots), approach/departure angels, locking diff, ATRAC, Crawl Control, washable interior, and I think with a OME lift and some 285's, I'd have a great multipurpose vehicle for daily driving, towing a pop-up, room for kids and gear. I'm 99% sure its gong to be an FJ in the morning......I really appreciate everyone's comments!

 

[Derek24]

No car has blinds spots when you stick on some spot mirrors. I have no problems with my FJ! Good luck tomorrow with your ur chase!

 

[Desert Dan]

When your kids get older they will want their own door. You might do better with a real 4 door.

 

[Ace Brown]

No car has blinds spots when you stick on some spot mirrors. I have no problems with my FJ! Good luck tomorrow with your ur chase!

The FJs worst and most dangerous blind spots are the A-pillars and mirrors won't help there. In fact the tall mirrors that are stock on the FJ contribute to the blind spot.


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[TaoZero]

I agree the doors on the Taco seem thin, I plan on installing some Dynamat this winter. That should help a bit.

 

[JCMatthews]

A good thing about any vehicle, is that ownership is not permanent. If the FJ does it for you now, go get it. Drive it a while see how it works. After your family gets bigger in number, or age, you might need to change. Enjoy whatever you purchase (sounds like it will be the FJ). You will find out what works for you and what does not.

 

[SWITAWI]

...I think with a OME lift and some 285's, I'd have a great multipurpose vehicle for daily driving, towing a pop-up, room for kids and gear. I'm 99% sure its going to be an FJ in the morning......I really appreciate everyone's comments!

Word of advice... AFAIK there are at least two grades of OME lift for the current model 2010-2013 FJC (originally they had 3 I believe); one for stock weight trucks, and one for trucks with front/rear aftermarket bumpers, a winch, and constant heavy loads. The 'heavy' suspension will ride like a buckboard wagon with an otherwise stock truck so this is something you should consider. Talk with someone at ARB, Toytec, Metal-Tech, or others about your truck and how you use it before committing to a suspension purchase. There are a lot of frustrating companies out there to deal with, but I know from personal experience that the three I just mentioned by name will respond to queries in a timely manner via phone or email and will even carry on a dialogue while you weigh your options.
:safari-rig:
Also, if you're going to do any camper towing or make a trip with a heavily loaded hitch-mounted cargo carrier on the FJC while it's still stock, some airbags from AirLift (P/N 60809) or Firestone (P/N 4135) in the rear coil springs will make that experience a lot nicer. Either one is about $90-$100.

AirLift install thread from ohiobenz on FJ Cruiser Forums - http://www.fjcruiserforums.com/forums/how-technical-articles/170065-airlift-1000-airbag-install.html

 

[darien]

Get the Taco. Nothing is as versatile for your various needs as a pickup truck. Throw a camper cover on the back and open up the slider window and it's a great expedition vehicle. The rear seat is plenty big for kids, and adults who aren't too leggy. If you're thinking of not even getting the locker/TRD, then offroad-ability isn't high on your list, but even so you could get the TRD and be perfectly capable on some amazingly bad roads. You have wonderful visibility in a pickup. Plus a pickup is a PICKUP - and once you have one, you suddenly have 1,000 jobs that need doing with a truck. It's the swiss army knife vehicle and would satisfy all your needs.

I wouldn't have an FJ - I test drove one fully intending to buy it on the spot when my dealer got the first ones in, and was disappointed at how bad the visibility was. I mentioned this to the salesman and he said "Yeah, well we're hearing about a lot of wrecks..." Everyone has their own requirements on this front, and all other fronts, and for you rear seat room may be the deal breaker, but put your kids in the back seat of a new Taco 4 door and see if they like it. Or you could just say "This is our new truck, and you will like it." :bigbossHL: