FJ vs Tacoma opinions!

[argonzero]

So what do you think is better, an FJ or a Taco off-roading? Which has more capability? Which has more potential to be the better offroader? I know someone has some good facts/figures to back up their opinions!

The only thing I can think of is that its wider (though thats not always worse)...

[purity]

hard for anyone to say since the fj's arnt out yet. i would imagine an fj would be better than the 05+ tacos since the angles, overhangs, and wheelbase sounds better. maybe someone can post the specs for comparison, im too busy "working" to do it. :p

[AK98Taco]

hard for anyone to say since the fj's arnt out yet. i would imagine an fj would be better than the 05+ tacos since the angles, overhangs, and wheelbase sounds better.

That's the answer. The drivetrains are identical. Rear suspension on the FJ is just like the current 4-Runner. The only difference is the body.

FJ turning radius: 41.8 feet
FJ approach/departure angle: 34/30 degrees
FJ wheelbase: 105.9 inches
FJ overall length: 183.9 inches
FJ overall width: 74.6 inches
FJ minimum ground clearance: 9.6 inches

Taco turning radius, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, ft: 36.7/40.7/40.7
Taco approach/departure angle: reg cab, 35/26; access cab, 35/26; double cab, 35/26
Taco wheelbase, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 110/127.8/127.8
Taco overall length, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 190.4/208.1/208.1
Taco overall width, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 74.6/74.6/74.6
Taco minimum ground clearance, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 9.4/9.4/9.4

This for 4x4 models only.

I feel it will come down to the type of offroading, the driver's needs/habits/skills, etc.

[Valkyrie]

FJ what?

Better how?

What kind of off-roading?

Maybe delete this, reword it and try again (and attach a poll).

[purity]

That's the answer. The drivetrains are identical. Rear suspension on the FJ is just like the current 4-Runner. The only difference is the body.

FJ turning radius: 41.8 feet
FJ approach/departure angle: 34/30 degrees
FJ wheelbase: 105.9 inches
FJ overall length: 183.9 inches
FJ overall width: 74.6 inches
FJ minimum ground clearance: 9.6 inches

Taco turning radius, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, ft: 36.7/40.7/40.7
Taco approach/departure angle: reg cab, 35/26; access cab, 35/26; double cab, 35/26
Taco wheelbase, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 110/127.8/127.8
Taco overall length, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 190.4/208.1/208.1
Taco overall width, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 74.6/74.6/74.6
Taco minimum ground clearance, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 9.4/9.4/9.4

This for 4x4 models only.

I feel it will come down to the type of offroading, the driver's needs/habits/skills, etc.
sounds like the fjc and reg. cab are about evenly matched. but you cant get the v6 and elocker in a reg. cab.

[purity]

FJ what?
this is the fj cruiser folder old man.:p

[Doss]

Taco vs. new FJ...

depends do you need the bed or not?

I mean the FJ out of the box is going to be better off-road, that's its secondary purpose, its primary is to drive to the mall. Out of the box the 05 Tacos purpose is just to drive to the mall.

If I didn't need the bed space for my dogs I would have waited for the FJ.

[argonzero]

Lol, ditto on the "working"...

Yea, I think that moving from a Taco to a FJ is not a big improvement unless you want to look cool at the mall in which any new vehicle will envoke that "oOOoo" from on lookers. Our tacos have just as much potential dollar for dollar in upgrades for off-roading in my opinion. I guess we'll have to see when they come out.

... One plus though, anything would have a nicer interior then the pre 05 tacos :banghead:, but who cares.

[argonzero]

That's the answer. The drivetrains are identical. Rear suspension on the FJ is just like the current 4-Runner. The only difference is the body.

FJ turning radius: 41.8 feet
FJ approach/departure angle: 34/30 degrees
FJ wheelbase: 105.9 inches
FJ overall length: 183.9 inches
FJ overall width: 74.6 inches
FJ minimum ground clearance: 9.6 inches

Taco turning radius, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, ft: 36.7/40.7/40.7
Taco approach/departure angle: reg cab, 35/26; access cab, 35/26; double cab, 35/26
Taco wheelbase, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 110/127.8/127.8
Taco overall length, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 190.4/208.1/208.1
Taco overall width, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 74.6/74.6/74.6
Taco minimum ground clearance, reg cab/access cab/double cab-short, inches: 9.4/9.4/9.4

This for 4x4 models only.

I feel it will come down to the type of offroading, the driver's needs/habits/skills, etc.

Awesome fact finding AK98Taco!

[CYi5]

Argon's question is also referring to 95.5-04 tacos vs. FJ cruiser. (forgot to mention that part :)).

[Anthony Sordi]

what wait for them to come out my local dealer ship got 3 in today. I live in but f no where up in canada so they have to be down your way by now. They look cool couldnt test drive because they just arrived and still in plastic. Good prices too base is 30g cnd a full load is 37g canadian so american prices are going to be much much less.

[Valkyrie]

this is the fj cruiser folder old man.:p
Holy Crap! When did we get that? :D

I feel like Rip Van Winkle all of the sudden....

[argonzero]

Anyone really considering trading in or buying one of these?

[Paul]

Angry Andy told me he is planning on buying one. He said he was having a hard time getting everything he wants though.

[Mike]

Angry Andy told me he is planning on buying one. He said he was having a hard time getting everything he wants though.

Apparently all the ones trickling in so far are automatics.

Later,
....Mike

[Paul]

Thats what he was telling me, only it involved a bit more profanity and some smoke being blown in my face.

[argonzero]

I'm sure that every dealership is going to charge a nice markup on the FJ. Heck, can you believe that for the first time in pontiac history they are selling a vehicle over MSRP? The Solstice is actually selling 2k over, its shocking even the dealers lol. I'm sure there are are way more people anticipating the FJ then that crappy little rebadged Vauxhall VXR220, soo good luck on that vehicle!

Is Angry Andy going to make it a wheeler, and keep the pickup? (two wheelers would burn one big hole in my wallet/credit!)

[Mike]

I'm sure that every dealership is going to charge a nice markup on the FJ. Heck, can you believe that for the first time in pontiac history they are selling a vehicle over MSRP? The Solstice is actually selling 2k over, its shocking even the dealers lol. I'm sure there are are way more people anticipating the FJ then that crappy little rebadged Vauxhall VXR220, soo good luck on that vehicle!

Is Angry Andy going to make it a wheeler, and keep the pickup? (two wheelers would burn one big hole in my wallet/credit!)

Don't forget the Project Angry 4Runner! :D Our driveway is full of Toyotas.

Later,
....Mike

[ripkinC]

Taco vs. new FJ...

depends do you need the bed or not?

Out of the box the 05 Tacos purpose is just to drive to the mall.


Ok, one can always use a bed, Now I have a 98 with bench up front, love it, think all trucks should have a option for a bench seat on ALL models... makes the lovin easyer, but the bed in the back is roomyer, you can do a lot of junk in the tacomas trunk :)

OTB taco only for mall? maybe a "city" (I mean a regular super base, 2 wd with no lift ans small tires)
I got my 98 (used) with the TRD off-road package, it was more than capable to off roade in the mall parking lot... Parked on top of a VW bug first day I had it. :rofl: but seriously, with the TRD off road pkg. I think any taco could handle all normal off road tasks. (ok true not with thoes crapy dunlops they are coming with) Now the FJ may be able to do the rubicon out of the box with the optional 33's but how many go from dealer to the wrecker (I mean your likely to scrach and dent) with out doing some tests and must-needed money wasting (boys and their toys) mods (we all know thoes suspension stickers give you an extra degree of enter/depart angle, and the big ones give more ground clearence. Just like thoes other stickers that give 5 extra hp. :saw:
I know your only kidding, but what you said first is the main determinate, DOES ONE NEED BED SPACE period.

[AngryAndy]

I'm sure that every dealership is going to charge a nice markup on the FJ. Heck, can you believe that for the first time in pontiac history they are selling a vehicle over MSRP? The Solstice is actually selling 2k over, its shocking even the dealers lol. I'm sure there are are way more people anticipating the FJ then that crappy little rebadged Vauxhall VXR220, soo good luck on that vehicle!

Is Angry Andy going to make it a wheeler, and keep the pickup? (two wheelers would burn one big hole in my wallet/credit!)


I have my name at 5 bay area dealerships, and only one of them has called me back in regards to a vechicle...

Like Mike said, 90% of this first batch is all automatics....and I wanna stick.

Most dealerships have said that since I know exacly what I want, I will probably have one 'custom ordered' for me...meaning that will take longer. Hell I dont care, I just want the damn thing...fuck, i want every option available anyways, so I would think that there will be something coming in SOMEWHERE nearby sometime soon.

As far as pricing goes, they seemed to be asking MSRP, which I am fine paying...but NOTHING over.

This would be my mall runner, DD, and the 'reliable' rig. The taco will stay, as well as the 4runner.....

[argonzero]

This would be my mall runner, DD, and the 'reliable' rig. The taco will stay, as well as the 4runner.....

Lol good to hear, represent the last real toyota pickups (pre 05, sorry 05's =D) and and save yourself the 10 grand in mods on the FJ. That said, I'm sure we all know your going to end up dumping a load of money on that FJ.... who could resist lol.

[Anthony Sordi]

Ya all the rigs at our dealer are auto as well. No one wants to pay a grand for the dumb thing to shift at the wrong times for you. Not a huge fan of the white roof if the dealer can get me a base model with stick I will pick it up but first mod is color match that roof sorry but white roof on a black cruiser i dont think so looks like a boydster. Our dealer is sellin them at msrp. Oh and angry did any dealer tell you when second shipment be in and if there be more sticks?

[Paul]

The white roof is one of the only retro things about it. I think its cool.

[AngryAndy]

Ya all the rigs at our dealer are auto as well. No one wants to pay a grand for the dumb thing to shift at the wrong times for you. Not a huge fan of the white roof if the dealer can get me a base model with stick I will pick it up but first mod is color match that roof sorry but white roof on a black cruiser i dont think so looks like a boydster. Our dealer is sellin them at msrp. Oh and angry did any dealer tell you when second shipment be in and if there be more sticks?

Got a call today from Dublin Toytota, they got ONE in....of course it was sold already, but he let me come look and sit in it. He had the TRD exhaust, which I liked...also had upgraded to 16" wheels and offroad tires. Stock is 17's....and non-AT tires. Also had the heavy-duty floormats. Liked them also. Stereo sounded very nice, the subwoofer was quite a help. Also had a switch on the dash to turn OFF the sub.

He did not mention when they will get more in. He did show me this months build numbers....85% were auto's, 10% stick (fully loaded) and 5% stick (less loaded, possibly base models). He did not know if those production stats will change over the next month either. He did say they would be ordering some with sticks, cause I am not the only person asking about stick.....

Sounds like I just have to custom order one.....and I KNOW as soon as I do that, one of the five dealerships I have my name at will call and tell me they have something available......

[expeditionswest]

Having driven and spent time in both....

Tacoma- Function

FJ- Form

Trail performance gives the edge to the FJ, while the Tacoma is much more functional, more room for gear, easier ingress for passengers, etc.

I really do like the FJ, but I am much more of an anti-chrome, pure functionality kind of dude.

At the end of the day, both are great rigs, so you cant go wrong. It is the aftermarket modifications that will make the selection really extreme trail ready anyways.

Just my $.0000002

[argonzero]

Yea just order it, anything worth while is worth the wait. Mini Coopers have a six month waiting list! ..unless you like paying 35.9K for a vehicle that starts at 20k (filled full of pork options). I'm sure it'll take a while to order, but you'll love it more then paying 12k in crapola.

[Anthony Sordi]

ya not a fan of buying the full load some options they offer you just dont want or need or end up changing with mods any ways so why pay xtra for them. Drove one today very nice had lots of zip to it they wouldnt let me take it off pavment. I still cant decide if i want to sit and wait for the right fj or just buy the 06 access cab sr5 4x4 they have. Its everything i want stick and all and its there now no waiting the salesman said he be willing to let me drive it off teh lot for 30 500 when list price is 32 500 so seems like pretty good deal to me.

[HappyTrails]

One of the stealerships here said they were charging $2k over msrp, and they actually presold a lot of them at that price. All the ones they are getting shipped in are auto and loaded with a bunch of crap that makes them close to $30k.

I got them to agree to drop the $2k markup, and they can order a base model manual with locker for about $23k +/- which does not seem too bad. I was actually thinking about getting one, but I think I have decided not to.

[Doss]

Having driven and spent time in both....

Tacoma- Function

FJ- Form

Trail performance gives the edge to the FJ, while the Tacoma is much more functional, more room for gear, easier ingress for passengers, etc.

I really do like the FJ, but I am much more of an anti-chrome, pure functionality kind of dude.

At the end of the day, both are great rigs, so you cant go wrong. It is the aftermarket modifications that will make the selection really extreme trail ready anyways.

Just my $.0000002


Perfectly said. :kewl:

[argonzero]

I think that for FJ Vs Taco, the only thing that the FJ got is the wheelbase... Other then that, both (in my opinion) are the same after you get decent travel out of the rear Tacoma suspension.

[nos4you]

I think that for FJ Vs Taco, the only thing that the FJ got is the wheelbase... Other then that, both (in my opinion) are the same after you get decent travel out of the rear Tacoma suspension.

FJ has a lot less overhang for better approach and departure angles.
Means less bumper scrapes!!!! :D

[argonzero]

According to AK98Taco's research, we have better approach angles and better turning radius. Also, it seems like we have more clearance between the wheels (front to back) so we can go over more things/rocks in a relatively flat area, though since we are longer im not sure if we'd high center more often then the FJ. Stop bashing my truck Mike! =P

[Rockrawler]

I still wanna know how a longer truck with the same suspension & steering has a tighter turning radius that a shorter rig... Although the approach angles are close, aftermarket bumpers will dramatically increase the numbers on the FJ. Look at (the lack of) whats behind the bumpers, especially the front

[argonzero]

The only thing I can think of is a harder steering angle... I think everyone's wondering what a couple mods are going to do to that thing.

[tbrown]

This is right from Toyota here are the specs I have. Notice the tuning radius is far smaller then was originally posted. I have a Tacoma I still say that out of the box the FJ wins hands down.

Door Count 4 doors
Maximum Cargo Volume 66.8 cu.ft.
Exterior Length 183.9 "
Exterior Width 74.6 "
Exterior Height 70.9 "
Wheelbase 106 "
Front Tread 63 "
Rear Tread 63 "
Turning Radius 20.9 '
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 5,330 lbs.
Curb Weight 4,050 lbs.
Payload 1,325 lbs.
Max Trailer Weight 5,000 lbs.
Max Trailer Tongue Weight 9,200 lbs.
Drag Coefficient .40
Front Legroom 41.9 "
Rear Legroom 31.3 "
Front Headroom 41.3 "
Rear Headroom 40.3 "
Front Hiproom 55.4 "
Rear Hiproom 51.0 "
Front Shoulder Room 58.4 "
Rear Shoulder Room 53.9 "
Interior Cargo Volume 27.9 cu.ft.
Interior Cargo Volume w/Seats Folded 66.8 cu.ft.

[GOT COPE?]

So what do you think is better, an FJ or a Taco off-roading? Which has more capability?

Oh lets see, Id pick the 95-04 Tacoma :D

[topless4runner]

The main advantage the FJ is going to have regarding off-road prowess is for those new to wheeling as the FJ can be had with toyotas newfangled ATRAC traction control BS. it uses the ABS bits to mimic LSDs f/r, making it effectively point and shoot; im not really down with computers doing the driving for me though. plus you have to get both options packages to get it, which amounts to around $4300. f-that. one nice thing they did, which i wish they would offer on the Taco, is a stand alone rear locker for $340, as opposed to the $3695 you have to pay to get it on the '06 taco. oh, and if you can find one the stick comes with the locker standard.

i really hope the FJ does well, then maybe toyota will see that there is a market for a stripped down 4x4 SUV in the states and build us one without so many compromises. :2cents:

[Anthony Sordi]

Well for anyone on teh edge of how they look I have to say they look bad on teh net in pictures u really have to go look at it in person and then you say wow. Black looks amazing in person and they drive great. Seeing the black one today with color matched roof makes me want one lol

[purity]

Notice the tuning radius is far smaller then was originally posted.
that sounds more reasonable than the 41" turning radius. the fj looks like it could make some real tight turns.

[AK98Taco]

This is right from Toyota here are the specs I have. Notice the tuning radius is far smaller then was originally posted. I have a Tacoma I still say that out of the box the FJ wins hands down.

Where in the hell do you think I got my numbers? ;)

From: http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/future/fj_cruiser/

Section: Specifications

I'm not saying any of these specs are correct, but they are from Toyota.

[tbrown]

Where in the hell do you think I got my numbers? ;)

From: http://www.toyota.com/vehicles/future/fj_cruiser/

Section: Specifications

I'm not saying any of these specs are correct, but they are from Toyota.
Weird, a pamphlet up here in Canada says 20.9. Anyone one go test one out. :D

[AK98Taco]

Weird, a pamphlet up here in Canada says 20.9. Anyone one go test one out. :D

This is why it's good to have more than one source.

[Genlrony]

the Locker kinda made up my mind. I looked one over today that was a manual. Im sold. but I think I want one in black cherry.

[AK98Taco]

the Locker kinda made up my mind. I looked one over today that was a manual. Im sold. but I think I want one in black cherry.

What do you mean?

Both the Tacoma and the Cruiser can be had with a rear locker.

[Anthony Sordi]

he means in manual the rear locker in stock but on at tacoma u have to get trd which is pricey so he can get a base manual fj for much much less and still have rear lock. My boss is buying one this coming week so shall see how it is. I want one but am still thinkin and have to wait for manual anyways.

[whitetrd]

I would say an 02-04 dc.

[tbrown]

I would say an 02-04 dc.
Just curious, but why?

[Anthony Sordi]

because he owns on and people always think there shits the best lol. 01 was the best year for the 01 - 04 double cab because u got blisteins rather then tokicos.

[TACO 4X4]

because he owns on and people always think there shits the best lol. 01 was the best year for the 01 - 04 double cab because u got blisteins rather then tokicos.

'01-'04 DC's are mostly the same, '01 is not the best year...read here before posting crap you don't know about:

http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=30057

[elgecko]

My freind just picked up his FJ yesterday. It's automatic, 4x4, rear locker, factory sliders (suprisingly). I didn't get to see it really perform but we did take down some rutted SoCal desert roads. Despite what the specs say, the FJ "seems" wider. The ride on dirt was pleasant, he must also have the traction control since it started beeping as we drifted through a turn.

I suspect the off road capabilty is similar to the Taco...it's a completely different type of vehicle. If you want a truck, get a Tacoma. If you want a SUV, have a look at the FJ. I wish I was in the market for a SUV.

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/elgecko42/album?.dir=7476&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/elgecko42/my_photos

[4X4]

that sounds more reasonable than the 41" turning radius. the fj looks like it could make some real tight turns.

There's no way the turning radius is 20.9 ft. Even a little Jeep Wrangler has a turning radius of 36 - 37ft.

[Dick Foster]

Who can resist? I can because I have a real FJ as in FJ40 and not that plastic, posered up mall running bullshit abortion that Toyota America dreamed up.

[Anthony Sordi]

'01-'04 DC's are mostly the same, '01 is not the best year...read here before posting crap you don't know about:

http://ttora.com/forum/showthread.php?t=30057

Not lieing i owned a 2001 Tacoma double cab from new it had blisteins not tokicos. Think your a big shot given me a link scroll to the bottom of that link see who was the last to post in that topic oh snap it was me.

[EndersTaco]

There's no way the turning radius is 20.9 ft. Even a little Jeep Wrangler has a turning radius of 36 - 37ft.

According to the Brochures from Toyota

Tacoma Reg Cab.............110" Wheelbase and a......36.1' Turning radius
Tacoma C Cab.............127.2"..............................40.7'
FJ Cruiser...................105.9"..............................41.8'
Prado...........................110".................................31' (Min Turn Radius 5.7m + Width(1870mm x2) = x .03937 = /12 = Curb to curb turn in feet)

Leads me to wonder if there is a typo in the brochure and if it should read 31'. If I get bored tomarrow will take one out here on the lot and measure it.

[TACO 4X4]

Not lieing i owned a 2001 Tacoma double cab from new it had blisteins not tokicos. Think your a big shot given me a link scroll to the bottom of that link see who was the last to post in that topic oh snap it was me.

your right 2001 is the best year because of the shocks...what was I thinking... :rolleyes:

[argonzero]

I like my 04 because the engine bay is cleaner, the cruise acutator is not in plain view and theres an open space where it should be. Tokicos did suck when I first got the truck, but oh well they got swapped out quick.

[4X4]

According to the Brochures from Toyota

Tacoma Reg Cab.............110" Wheelbase and a......36.1' Turning radius
Tacoma C Cab.............127.2"..............................40.7'
FJ Cruiser...................105.9"..............................41.8'
Prado...........................110".................................31' (Min Turn Radius 5.7m + Width(1870mm x2) = x .03937 = /12 = Curb to curb turn in feet)

Leads me to wonder if there is a typo in the brochure and if it should read 31'. If I get bored tomarrow will take one out here on the lot and measure it.

Why would 41.8 be a typo? That sounds right to me. The FJ cruiser is not an extremely small vehicle.

And actually the Prado has a turning radius or 11.4 meters, or 37.4 feet. I looked it up on Toyota's Australian website.

[dropped74]

I drove one Sunday and it felt like it had a very tight turning radius. Tighter than the Tacoma I drive right before that. By the way I love to see this post because I am torn between the two. I have my truck from high school that I have fixed up and my wife has an rx300 so I really need neither but I like them both and am really having a hard time deciding which I would enjoy better.

Nolan

[argonzero]

Just went to go see the FJ and I was not impressed. I brought my tape measure to see how it stacks up to my Taco.

With the skid plate, the front clearance is at a maximum 10 inches, arms slightly lower.
The gas tank is also 10 inches from the ground. Everyting is quite low. Slider clearance is 14.5 inches. On my Tacoma, sliders are 19.5 inches off the ground, highest point on the skid is 12.5. There doesn't seem to be much you can do to lift ect over 3 inches like a coil over lift or spacer. Wheel wells are pretty tight. After seeing it in person, I'm positive that the Tacoma is just as a capable as the FJ. The Taco looks way more aggressive too, I'm sure everyone would agree that the early Tacoma is one of the best looking trucks ever made =D.

[argonzero]

The frame on the FJ was very beefy though, certianly doesn't look as thin and flexy as the taco.

[Proxy]

I think I'd rather have the FJ Cruiser for off-road more than the '05+ access cab Taco I was previously researching.

When comparing it to a 4-Runner, which MSRP's at $6k higher, its a no-brainer. Definitely a worthy competitor (if not leader) in the inexpensive, but functional 4x4 SUV market.

[OR_05Taco]

I think I'd rather have the FJ Cruiser for off-road more than the '05+ access cab Taco I was previously researching.

When comparing it to a 4-Runner, which MSRP's at $6k higher, its a no-brainer. Definitely a worthy competitor (if not leader) in the inexpensive, but functional 4x4 SUV market.

Not really a valid point since you pretty much have to pay MSRP for a FJ right now, but some are getting up to $4K off of 4runners' MSRP. :2cents:

[k_os]

they are very similar rigs, there are some minor un-inportant difference but the mayor diff is the wieght balance and the wheelbase distance which could make a diff. Other than that very similar.