Help me choose between an Xtrerra and FJ Cruiser

[swiggz]

Hey everyone, my name is Sam and I'm new to this sport. I discovered it on YouTube while researching FJ Cruisers. Right now I'm rolling in my 2000 Subaru Forester "Charlie". He's pretty old, and I'm looking to upgrade soon. I need help deciding between a Nissan XTerra and a Toyota FJ Cruiser. Which one is better for overlanding? I'm not huge into rock crawling, so I'm not really taking that into consideration. I love the look of FJ's, and as this will be my everything car, that's a big driving point. However, I can get an XTerra (2002) for way cheaper, and that gives me more money to spend on it. Could you guys give me some input on the subject?


Sent from my iPhone using OB Talk

 

[4xFar Adventures]

Well the Xterra is only 2 years newer than "Charlie". What year FJ Cruiser are you looking at? They're both popular on the trail and what's best to some might be someone else's gripe. I'd suggest taking them for a drive. You probably won't take them on a trail for a test drive, but look for the differences between them. How far do you want to modify it? If it's your everything vehicle, keep in mind how the ride comfort and quality will change when you throw parts on it. Also, look in your area for a group or club. Sometimes you'll find groups dedicated to one brand, other times it's open to anyone as long as it's a 4WD. Talk with them, or better yet, go for a day trip and jump around between vehicles. That's how you'll really know what works for you and your needs.

 

[bajatacoguy]

FJ


—————————

Hey Now!

#3533

 

[Steve]

I moved to the Rig Q&A forum, and changed the title so it would be more descriptive.

 

[Ironhide Fx4]

I would choose toyota over nissan any day. However, there are some sweet Xterras on this forum. I would also not rule out the 4runner, unless you have your heart set on one of these 2.

 

[pierceg]

As an FJ owner im biased.
But ive seen a nissan in action and it proved worthy.
I do wish the FJ had a V8 and 4 doors, but thats my only gripe.

 

[TnK1]

If you have a family and smaller kids xterra getting a car seat in and out of an fj can be a pain, the fj has a bigger aftermarket where as the xterra is a more niche market. I personally went with the fj to get more space over my tj and it was already lifted [emoji39]


Sent from my iPhone using OB Talk

 

[TnK1]

As an FJ owner im biased.
But ive seen a nissan in action and it proved worthy.
I do wish the FJ had a V8 and 4 doors, but thats my only gripe.

I will second the wish for a v8 in the fj even the 4.6 or 4.7 would've been nice but the 5.7 with 400 torque would be a dream!


Sent from my iPhone using OB Talk

 

[Denver6161]

I'll throw in my .02. I had two different Xterras and I regret selling them all of the time. I don't think you could go wrong with either rig so I would take the previously offered advice and drive both. I think one of the reasons I loved the Xterra so much was because it just fit me and my style so well. There is still plenty of aftermarket support if you know what to look for and I wouldn't downplay the relative comfort of the on-road driving habits the Xterra provides.

 

[jhill15]

I've had 2 xterras as well, a 2004, and a 2009. While I like the look of the 2.5 gen xterra the 1.5 gen is a way more solid rig as far as reliability is concerned. I sold my 2004 with 165k on it for $7k and it was very stout, the 2009 "135k" I traded in because the rear diff went out and it wasn't covered under any warranty. That was within a few months of owning it.

The fj's have way more to offer as far as 4wd is concerned. A-trac, rear diff lock...
But you also sacrifice some room. Toyota is famous for its reliability and bullet proof technology. That being said, there is guy who comes in my work who drives a 2003 xterra with 375k on the clock...on the original engine!!! No kidding at all!!! Every time I see him I ask how it's doing...his response is, still kickin!

Sent from my LG-H900 using Tapatalk

 

[VanIsleGuy]

I have 2 Xterras. One stock and one modified and love them both. But my recommendation would be to go and drive both trucks. See what feels best and meets your budget. Which ever you get, make sure it's got a service history. I dont know which FJ model is best but I am sure one of members with one will chime in. For the Xterra, an Off-Road or Pro4X edition because they have rear elocker. I have an S and SE and wish I had a locker. I love the FJ and the only reason I don't have one is that we had 2 small kids in cars seats at the time of looking. Trying to fit a car seat was a pain. Trying to get a kid in and out even more so.

Sent from my SM-T700 using OB Talk mobile app