Toyota 4Runner vs Jeep Grand Cherokee, Our Friend from Belgium and Diesel Used? [Ask Nathan]

2015 motor mountain usa Wyoming jeep wrangler road trip
Motor Mountain USA – Wyoming

In this edition of Ask Nathan:

  • Toyota 4Runner or Jeep Grand Cherokee?
  • Friend from Belgium wants a truck!
  • Good diesel replacement?

jeep wrangler rubicon vs toyota 4runner trd pro drag race

Today’s first question comes from a viewer who is choosing between a Toyota 4Runner and a Jeep Grand Cherokee. Difficult choice!

Hi Nathan,

I am in the market for a newish SUV maybe 2013-2014 looks like it’s down to the Toyota 4Runner sr5 and the Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo (trying to stick to the base models and maybe do some modifications down the road) I’m leaning towards the 4Runner because of Toyotas well known durability I like the back window and the 3rd row option and the fact that the 4Runner seems like a BEAST off-road. The jeep however keeps catching my eye with its sleek look and luxurious interior. I’m not a big off reader (YET) but do enjoy getting outdoors as much as possible and would like to keep up with my friends new Jeep Wrangler. This will not be a daily driver but more of a weekend warrior and road trip vehicle. What would you recommend?

 

Grand Cherokee Overlander

A: That’s a hard one!

Roman and I agree that, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the best all-around vehicle in its class, the Toyota 4Runner is spectacular in the rough. If you’re considering towing, hard off-road living and expect trail damage, the Toyota 4Runner is the way to go. On the other hand, if you need a commuter that can double as an occasional off-road vehicle, that Jeep Grand Cherokee is a fine choice.

Either way, they are both excellent choices.

Best of luck!

N

Although pricey, the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is a MONSTER off-road. Check out the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk if hard-core off-road capability is what you seek.

This next question is from a fan from Belgium who is looking for truck advice.

Q: Hi team,

Hope you guys are doing good !

First of all, I wish to congratulate ALL of you, for the job you do !!

I follow very regularly Roman and Nathan, on there reviews/presentations of vehicles !!

Keep it up !!

Yet, I would like to ask you, if you would accept/agree, to help me with a decision I need to make. Of course the final decision will be up to me, but, Nathan and Roman have that in-depth knowledge !! But, Nathan and Roman have the hands on expertise and experience !!!

You see, I live in Belgium, and we do not have ALL models of trucks available here (we can order them, but, they are not offered/available, as you have in the States, where you can walk into any dealership, and check out the vehicles as well as test drive them) !

I have lined up a few vehicles, and would like to know if you can help, based on :

I am not talking, or you don’t need to take into account Size of vehicle and engine, as I know that a Jeep wrangler is much smaller than a F-150 for instance.

I am looking for (a vehicle that will PERFORM very well ON & OFF Road) :

Reliability and dependability (On & Off Road)
Off Road capabilities !!!
Driving and Riding comfort
Standard (out of factory) equipment/options
(Usable) cargo space
Here are the vehicles I need to make my pick from :
2016-2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (Limited or Hard Rock Edition)
2017 Ford F-150 RAPTOR
2016-2017 Ford F-150 FTX or Ford F-250 Heavy Duty (4 X 4)
2016-2017 Dodge RAM 1500 REBEL
(2017) Nissan TITAN WARRIOR (I know it is a concept vehicle, but, you never know it may go into production)
I would like to know, what you Roman or Nathan, would buy, if it were for themselves. That would give me a pretty accurate idea, decision maker.

P.S. Is it true that (Miami) Florida is the State where new cars are cheapest to buy ? Or is it another one ?
I really would appreciate your thoughts and help


Kind Rgrds / MVG / Salutations Distinguées

Michel Z

A: Greetings Michel!

Roman and I are split on this question: Roman likes the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor (big surprise) and I find the Jeep Wrangler and Ram Power Wagon to be best. Yes, you listed the Ram Rebel, which is pretty good, but my choice would be to go all out and get the monster Ram Power Wagon.

The current Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is rock-solid reliable, has a ton of personality and is seriously capable on large trails. The Ram Power Wagon is more of an industrial tool and is built to be the best utilitarian vehicle out there. It’s beefy, tough-as-nails, and comes with a factory winch. Still, the Jeep Wrangler might be the best choice given its size and capability.

The Nissan Titan Warrior looks awesome, but; seeing that we have not driven it, I cannot recommend it.

Both the Raptor and Power Wagon are VERY big and may not be that easy to navigate on old European streets.

Michel: I am terribly sorry about the terrorist attack in your beautiful country. I traveled there when I was younger and Belgium was an incredible experience. I hope you and your countryman recover and stay safe.

N

Make your old truck sound & perform better with a Performance Exhaust
Make your old truck sound & perform better with a Performance Exhaust

The last question comes from a fan who is looking for used pickup truck advice.

Q: Hi Nathan,

I am in the market for an older model (2011-down) 2500/3500 diesel pickup. I currently have an extended cab 2003 Silverado 2500 LB7 with 86000 miles, which I absolutely love. Not only is there no emission regulations on it but it gets decent MPG. I would have no problem keeping it but it is very difficult to fit more than one car seat comfortably in the rear. I have no preference on year or manufacturer, just as long as its a diesel. However would prefer to stay as far away from the new emission restrictions as possible. I do some light towing, just some small excavating equipment occasionally and hope to have a fifth wheel camper soon. Just wondering if you have any suggestions.

Thank you,

Lance

ram-2500-power-wagon-photo

A: Hi Lance!

Great question! We have lots of truck reviews and suggestions on TFLtruck.com.

Andre likes the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and I am partial to the Ram 2500 pickup trucks with the beefy 6.7-liter diesel. I think it’s the best trade-off between a serious work truck and a comfortable driver. There’s plenty of space for passengers (in both trucks) and they tow a lot.

Either way, you will have a better interior and outstanding power.

N

Speaking of diesel trucks – have a look at the Jeep Cherokee Concept video!

Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.

From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.

Got a question for Nathan? Drop him a line at: asknathan@tflcar.com


nathan adlen Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.