I have had a 2000 4Runner for the past 6 years, and it seems to have finally hit its demise. I recently took it to the Toyota dealer, and it will cost more to fix than it is worth. The whole rear axle seems to be shot, bearings are gone, and the breaks seems to be stuck to the tire when it is cold out. The car also had 200,000+ miles.

I am looking into a newer 4Runner, Highlander or Rav4. My preference is a newer 4Runner as I love the ride of it, and I enjoy bigger cars. Would I notice a difference in gas mileage between a 2000 4Runner with 200,000+ miles and a newer 4Runner, and has anyone downgraded from a large 4Runner to a Rav4 or even highlander?

Any input would be appreciated.

 

If your concerned with mileage then the 4runner or the highlander is not a good choice. If your interested in the Rav, you might want to consider the Honda CRV. My wifes 08 CRV has over 100K and runs and rides as good as new. Never one problem and is amazing in the snow. She gets about 25 mpg everyday. Not sure what the Rav gets. My 04 4Runner with the V8 is a thirsty beast.

 

4runner's aren't known for gas mileage. However, if you get the 4.0 v6, you'll have similar or slightly better gas mileage. I looked up both on fueleconomy.gov (great site for these types of questions btw). The 2000 v6 4x4 has an average of 16, 2003 v6 4x4 has an average of 17.