Yeah a lot of people actually swap out the stock CJ and YJ axles for the 8.8 of the explorar. Not to mention if you can get one with the 5.0 now you really got some good low end torque. But thats for if you want something to beat around in the woods.

The Nissan Pathfinders are really nice if you're just going to use it for the grocery store and getting a couple things from Home Depot. Thats the gen previous to the one now

If you get an older Pathfinder you can beat up in the woods all day.

My girlfriends mother has an 04 4Runner and its pretty nice. I don't love it, but I don't really hate anything about it either (other than the fact its a yota...)

 

Personal Opinion. Don't like them.

 

Because why? I have plenty of reasons why I don't like XJs, you must have a reason why you don't like explorers..

 

Id go jeep if it's for chewing. Solid axle front and rear. No IFS crap. And if you ever need to upgrade axles there is TONS of support for jeeps.

 

hmm, I'm surprsied no one has mentioned the Bronco or Bronco 2.. Thats what I would go with. TONS of mod options for offroading with them. Easy to work on too!

 

I've got one! It goes just about anywhere I point it..


Part of why I suggested the Explorer is they're both a very similar platform, the Explorers already have the strong axles and 4.0 as well, they're also more civilized on the street for a daily driver.

 

Nice Bronco.

 

My uncle got killed in a car wreck in one. (long story) but i can't get one.

 

Is it going to be mainly an off roader, or an occasional off roader? Mostly a trip to home depot kinda thing?

 

If you don't like the grand cherokees, I would go with a TJ or the new JK. If its just an occasional off roader, you can throw on some big tires, a huge supply of aftermarket parts are available, if your traveling around in the summer you can take the top off/doors off/ etc etc. Theres lots and lots of choices for you; just please dont get a FWD independant rear suspension SUV.