fortuner 2.7G or Grandis?

[niky]

Look macho? :lol:

Unfortunately, there is still a stigma against MPV's and minivans in our local culture (just like in the States). Kesyo mukhang pang-pamilya, pang-driver, etc. Image is everything ika nga. hehehe.

To its credit the Fort can do some towing (if you order the optional uber expensive tow hitch). But you can also slap a tow hitch on a Grandis and tow a caravan if you wanted.

The Fortuner can climb curbs and can easily clear other road obstacles/debris. Just don't strayt too far off the beaten path because the 2.7G is a 4x2 and off-road driving is more about traction and control than ground clearance and macho looks. The Grandis will be easier to back up onto a steep and slippery driveway because most of its weight is on the drive wheels. The Fortuner will do the same antics that my former Besta did (spin tires needlessly).

It's still a personal choice. Just weigh all the virtues and the vices.

Agree... it's amazing how many people think that just because it's an "SUV", it'll go anywhere.

Off-roadability is not only about clearance, it's about traction. The Toyota Fortuner 4x2 doesn't have a rear-axle LSD (the Torsen LSD is for the central locking diff of the 4x4). In other words, it's an open rear differential. In other words, just like an FX or Revo, you can get stuck more easily on slippery surfaces.

Unlike the Everest/Ranger, with a rear axle LSD, which gives better traction on slippery surfaces (though it's much better if a locking front differential were available for both vehicles).

Front-wheel drive vehicles like the Grandis have great traction because, like OTEP says, the weight is all over the drive wheels. They're more stable than rear wheel drive vehicles in slippery conditions, and less likely to spin out or tip over. Heck, Junior WRC uses front-wheel drivers. They're very predictable on loose surfaces.

If 99% of your driving is on roads, be they cement or light dirt trails, the Grandis is safer. I take our FWD sedan to our farm (even in the rain) with no problem. It's hard to get stuck, but when you actually do (it takes really deep mud to do it), you simply dig out sideways by turning the wheels.

If you take dirt trails with huge bumps and holes, then a 4x4 Fortuner is better. All a 4x2 will give you is more clearance.

And floodability? Do the smart thing... whatever you're driving, just park it and wait it out. Whether it be an SUV or a van, all vehicles nowadays have electronic boxes that can get ruined by floodwater if you get stuck in the middle too long. About the only current vehicle I'd feel safe in a flood in is a Crosswind... no fancy electronics to go *pffft*. All it needs is a snorkel and it'd be perfect.