RedRunner_87

I guess I will put this here, since I'm not sure where to put it. In about 6 months I will be in the market for a Toyota SUV. My Jeep I don't feel will be lasting to much longer, and with getting only 10-11mpg in the city and 14 on the freeway it is killing me to drive. I often drive between Flagstaff and LA(1K round trip) and down to Phoenix. So I would have around 15K to spend on a SUV or put down. So here is what I am thinking about.

4th Gen 4Runner: Either V6 or V8(was told that 05's got the better V8...VVTI maybe?). My friend says he is getting 19-20 overall and 22mpg on the freeway with his 05 V8 and cat-back. So that doesn't seem to bad at all. So I was wondering the pluses and minuses of them and what you guys are getting mileage wise with what engine. I was thinking the Sport model.

3rd Gen 4Runner: I really like the 3.4L(my mom has a PreRunner Tacoma). I have never driven a 3rd Gen, so don't really have a feel for them. I know I could buy one straight up with 15K, but I don't want to go any higher than 00. Not sure if I should just go a little newer and get a 4th Gen. I put about 20K miles a year on my cars. Also want to know what you guys are averaging mileage wise.

I know they are SUV's, but I need a 4wd for going into the desert and into the forest, as well as the snow we get up here during the winter. I can't stand to drive a car either, so Im trying to get the best bang for the buck with my next purchase.

Hoopster

What is the price range you're working with? I've gotten as high as 22.5mpg freeway in my 3rd gen 4runner. My wife averages around 17 around town. I love driving it!

RedRunner_87

I will have 15K to spend on a 4Runner...if I get a newer 4Runner I would need a loan but would want to keep the payments less than 300 a month.

Asha'man

3rd gen. I want a 3.4 truck soooo bad lol. I thought you loved your Heep?