potential buyer

I'm leaning towards getting an 4runner as a replacement for my current 97 Isuzu Rodeo. Too many problems starting to pop up, and sick of "dealer only" repair work.

I have some questions:

1. What is the difference between the Limited, SR5, and Sport models (performance wise)?

2. What year is the "best" year to look at...I'm leaning towards 2002 or 2003 now, but not sure of any perks/problems in any of the years?

3. What are some typical problems that arise or I should look for in potential 4runners? Some stuff I'm used to w/ rodeos- trannys taking a dump, lug bolts constantly breaking, timing belts breaking, etc.

4. How would you compare it to a Nissan Xterra, Nissan Pathfinder, or Isuzu Rodeo?

I realize it's going to get bad gas mileage as any SUV, but any other heads ups you guys/gals could supply would help out immensely!! Thanks in advance for any replies

i have a 2001 pathfinder fully loaded it has all the extras.....and its for sale, because my 1991 4 runner w/ 180,000 on it is a much better truck all the way around.Tons of aftermarket parts, great motor, toyota uses quality parts,nissan (its seems to me) does not.well i hope this steers you away from nissan.I also haven't got 1 call for my nissan yet and its been on the market for month.My 1988 toyota truck w/ 140,000 on it sold in 1 day for $3000.00 nuff said?

I can write about the 2003....get the sport edition! or the LTD with Xreas. I am sold on Xreas. I have driven my SE with it and an LTD without for thousands of miles. It makes a big difference. I opted for the SE as it was $10k less than the LTD at the time of my purchase and I didn't need leather or navigation. You can order a SE with leather, sunroof, etc...

The 2003 is a great vehicle and it a large departure from the 2002s. Not as much ground clearance, but still great off-road abilities. It is an excellent vehicle.

I hear they get pretty good mileage for a 4000lb SUV. Something like 20mpg for the V6 and 22 with the 4.