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Re: The Xterra takes the lead...
Posted by DesertDawg
on 00:50:03 07/18/08
In Reply to:
The Xterra takes the lead... posted by CandaceS
You seem to be taking the search pretty seriously, so, yeah, you should probably at least look at the 4Runner. Truck frame, solid rear axle, locking center diff. Probably not quite as off-road capable as the Xterra due to no locking rear diff, but real world difference should be pretty small due to more wheel flex. The brake traction control system works very well.
The 4Runner has one, big distinguishing feature, imo, and that's the Torsen C center differential. This results in being able to run capably in 4WD (AWD), hi or lo without locking the center. It feels like having an open center for easy steering with no driveline stress on tight turns or grippy surfaces (you can run 4WD on pavement), but gives much more 4WD capability than a simple open center would. Might not sound like much via the written word, but I'm spoiled by it. Oh yeah, a power roll-down rear window, too. If you're considering used, it's worth noting that a styling change in '06 reduced body clearances a little which increased its overhang disadvantage compared to Xterra, at least in front and back. I believe there's more clearance under the doors on the 4Runner, though. Also, as far as the rear cargo area folding flat, I can only verify that the vehicles with the feature called "double-decker cargo system" will fold perfectly flat. I don't know for sure about the ones without it. I don't know, but I'm going to guess the Xterras belly tuck configuration may be a little cleaner. If you're going to frequently push the 4WD limits, you might find the Xterra a tad easier to push over obstacles, though no spot in DV stops my mostly stock 4Runner.
Happy hunting.
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