Looking for first expedition/overland rig

[bloodycape]

I think MPG would be similar on both seeing as the Montero comes in at around 400-600lbs more vs the Xterra S/C. The Xterra models with supercharged & 4x4 make 18mpg freeway(goes up to 20mpg in the non-s/c V6 models), and 14-15mpg city out of a ~19 gallon tank. I think some of that has to do with the fact the Montero comes with a 5-speed auto vs the 4-speed auto of the Xterra; plus the VG33 V6 in the Xterra is a bit of an older design so that may be a factor also. That gen Montero you are looking at also makes 18mpg highway, while city is a lower 13mpg out of a ~23 gallon tank. Not a real different in mpg, but the Montero is a bit larger, so that may or may not be a plus for you.

I personally like the Xterra more vs that gen Montero as it is a smaller suv, and comes with the sort of unique(at least to me) roof-rack that offers extra bit of storage. Plus I think you have some cheaper power upgrade on the Xterra, if needed, since your particular model comes with a supercharger, which is never really a bad thing.

[reece146]

The problem with supercharged engines in the real world is that they require premium gas and in truck applications very rarely provide the addition fuel economy per dollar-litre that the manufacturer promises.

As a general rule don't believe any manufacturer's claims for fuel economy for their trucks. They are mostly all "cooked" results via rolling road tests without real world aero drag applied. They apply a formula after the fact that doesn't cut it.

IME the best rule of thumb for finding cruise mpg accuracy is comparing cruising RPM and torque at that engine speed across a bunch of different vehicles. Build a spreadsheet; if one vehicle has really good mpg numbers and has a mountain of torque at those speeds then the mpg numbers might be in the realm of real world attainment.

There are web sites with real world data out there. Not hard to find via google.

[nasko]

I am very familiar with what they are rated for, I was looking out for real world user info. Checked Fuelly.com but there is not enough empirical data for the Montero. I definitely do not want to add power to the X, if I had known more back then when I got the X, I would have waited longer to find one with the NA engine. Live and learn, the X has been fairly reliable, happy with it, was just seeing what is out there and the Montero looks good.

[bloodycape]

I got my info from a mix of fueleconomy.gov site and forums via google search. The S/C VG33 max tq starts at 2,800 rpm and 4,800 rpm for hp vs the 3.8 in the Montero at 3,250 rpm for tq, and 5,500 rpm for hp. That maybe a good place to start, and then see from there where your crusing rpm would be when you are on your normal route and see if you can compare that with what the Montero makes based on user reviews.

[4D55 Performance]

Comparing the Montero to the xterra is like comparing apples to oranges. The Montero is in a whole different class. The Montero is a flagship SUV like the Land Cruiser and the Nissan Patrol. The xterra is a budget SUV and it's in the same class as the Montero Sport.

[nasko]

I don't mind the budget badge ) Perhaps I should just drive a Montero to see how it drives.

[4D55 Performance]

I don't mind the budget badge ) Perhaps I should just drive a Montero to see how it drives.

Nothing wrong with budget SUV's. In many ways they are better than there luxury counterparts. They typically have smaller yet more fuel efficient engines, they can have older but less complex off-road systems, parts and repairs are typically cheaper, most of the time they can be had with manual transmission for those who prefer shifting and the cost a lot less.

[nasko]

I have seen the older Pajero/Montero and really liked them, but the newer ones - the 3rd Gen look a bit more car-like. (no frame other than the suspension, independent rear, etc.) Is the 3rd Gen, as capable as the previous ones, or is it geared towards luxury? I saw a few 3rd Gen Montero's that seem to do OK in the dirt, and in all honesty it is not like I will do anything extreme, the Xterra in almost stock form does everything that I ask of it off road. Would the 3rd Gen match that? Here are a few pics of my usual trails I take the X throughIMGP7527.jpgIMGP7565.jpgIMGP7594.jpg

[scrubber3]

The 3rd gen should go anywhere a stock X goes.

[bigmack]

That is a pretty sweet looking ride.