Let me help you here. I think from reading your post that the FJ is probably not gonna make you happy. Just because it makes me happy or anyone else is not the point. You have functions and features that you would like and you should get what you want. I have the MT6 and i will say that it sticks to the road like glue in rain. I have no ice here and i never see snow. Im not saying one is better than the other but they are for different purposes. I suggest you go ahead and get the Qx4. You have experience in it and liked it. Get what you like.
Good luck
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I really appreciate the level headed inputs to my un-informed dilemma. I can't imagine how anyone could disrespect a '01-'03 QX4, it is NOT unreliable by any means. I had one for a few years, absolutely as reliable as my 2003 Solara. The QX56 is the piece of junk, not the QX4.
Anyways, I have a max budget of $30K. I can always put a heated seat kit into the FJ, add navi, etc...not a big deal and a bit fun to do also. I like the 4runner idea too....but I think that may go way over budget for me...and I think the rear end is ugly. Overall I really like the FJ despite it's issues such as visibility.
Another option I have is to buy a '98+ 4runner 4X4 and get a AWD car. Seeing as how the FJ is basically using a bunch of Tacoma/4runner hardware, I think the older4runner may be a good choice for getting out too.
I would say if you want to have awd and would like to stay with a VERY reliable system get a subaru. Either the outback or forester. Heck even the legacy or wrx. would do. They have lots of new options now from when i owned my wrx and i have to say it was the most fun car i have ever drive. I had about 17k in atermarket items on it so that helped But for the price you will not get a better performing AWD vehicle than a subaru. And it is directly under toyota for reliability.
I figure with the stability and traction control the FJ comes with that I should be fine without AWD. I looked at new Tacomas and new 4Runners also. I won't buy a "Made In America" Nissan product, the Frontier's, Xterra's and Pathfinders are absolute junk compared to the old Japan built R50 Pathfinder/QX4's or any Toyota SUV.
Optioning out a 4Runner to the max gets up to about $42K...yikes.
Anyway, I think the REAL point to getting an FJ is how unique they are...I can see that the FJ is not really the "best" at any one thing besides being unique. Anyway, I promise not to mention "Datsun" products in the same breath as the FJ anymore...haha
I have the AWD 6 speed manual FJ. After I got it my wife sold her BMW 3 Series AWD wagon because she preferred the ride and room of the FJ for our forays to the mountains. She doesn't drive it as often as I do, but doesn't mind the manual. Having lived in Seattle I understand the concerns about the manual in traffic. However, the FJ transmission and clutch are both as smooth as you could want. I choose the 6 speed specifically to get AWD and don't regret the decision.
I have the AWD 6 speed manual FJ. After I got it my wife sold her BMW 3 Series AWD wagon because she preferred the ride and room of the FJ for our forays to the mountains. She doesn't drive it as often as I do, but doesn't mind the manual. Having lived in Seattle I understand the concerns about the manual in traffic. However, the FJ transmission and clutch are both as smooth as you could want. I choose the 6 speed specifically to get AWD and don't regret the decision.
I like the specs on the 6MT also, however I have been making a case for getting a new car with my wife and needing to switch to an AT is the biggest reason I have been pitching so she does "feel my pain". If I bought a 6MT FJ she'd be pretty mad at me. I currently have a 5MT V6 Solara so I am quite familiar with how nice Toyota's with manuals can be, but still, needing 1-1.5 hours to cover 20 miles drives me nuts
I really appreciate the level headed inputs to my un-informed dilemma. I can't imagine how anyone could disrespect a '01-'03 QX4, it is NOT unreliable by any means. I had one for a few years, absolutely as reliable as my 2003 Solara. The QX56 is the piece of junk, not the QX4.
Anyways, I have a max budget of $30K. I can always put a heated seat kit into the FJ, add navi, etc...not a big deal and a bit fun to do also. I like the 4runner idea too....but I think that may go way over budget for me...and I think the rear end is ugly. Overall I really like the FJ despite it's issues such as visibility.
Another option I have is to buy a '98+ 4runner 4X4 and get a AWD car. Seeing as how the FJ is basically using a bunch of Tacoma/4runner hardware, I think the older4runner may be a good choice for getting out too.
The FJ has distinctive looks and seems to meet your budget. It is utilitarian though so don't expect premium creature comforts. If you ever decide to take it off road it has all the bells and whistles to do that too.
I am not an expert on AWD by any means, but my AT FJ seems to hook up really well even on a slippery mud incline in 2wd! Remember the FJ is a beast and weighs in at 4K#'s!
China, Have you come up with a short list for your purchase yet?
Well, if you mean "short list" as in cars I would consider, only the Tacoma would be on the list with the FJ. The FJ is WAY cooler, but the Tacoma might be more "useable" being a homeowner and all.
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FJORD previously said:
The FJ has distinctive looks and seems to meet your budget. It is utilitarian though so don't expect premium creature comforts. If you ever decide to take it off road it has all the bells and whistles to do that too.
I am not an expert on AWD by any means, but my AT FJ seems to hook up really well even on a slippery mud incline in 2wd! Remember the FJ is a beast and weighs in at 4K#'s!
THX for the input, that is what my buddy says about his 4dr Chevy 2500 Duramax 4X4, it really never has any troubles in 2WD either.
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