Sooo many comments slipped through the filter. Yeah man, I think having a truck is going to be a big change. Its not as much truck as what you have of course, but having a place to hide away from poor weather with some heat sure is going to be nice!
I think you go with the Lexus GX 550. Why? It's a 6-cylinder, it's not a hybrid, and it's got Lexus quality. Lexus quality is a whole other level beyond Toyota. Lexus service is also a whole other level beyond Toyota or any other brand. When installing weird accessories that haven't been installed before on any vehicle, the Lexus dealership will be more forthright with you and trustworthy. If you haven't owned a Lexus before this may sound silly, but a lot of people who don't even want a Lexus drive a Lexus because the dealer service is miles beyond what you get with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, etc. Also, the Land Cruiser has the same motor as the Lexus RX 500hs and those haven't been completely trouble-free.
Saw it coming a mile away, but I think you made the right decision. I went from an FJ to a mid size crew cab short bed and the added space is phenomenal. You’ll notice a huge difference. Can’t wait to see the canopy camper on it 😉
I am so excited to see you modernize your FJ and see your new Tacoma build! I just got my FJ a year ago and am looking for ideas on where to start my own build. Thank you for doing what you do!
I just ran into your channel today and just subscribed as I’m super stoked to see you start building out your Taco! I’m planning on getting the Land Cruiser when I can get my hands on one, so I will definitely be watching you for some ideas as I start to build that up at the same time!
My Fj build will prove to be helpful as well, as I think I have nailed down a pretty functional SUV setup. Your LC will have a lot more room which will make a big difference for you! I wish I could afford both, the LC looks awesome!
Well I’m going to look forwards to your new build Overland 4x4, unfortunately down under. We do not get this model of Toyota. But I’m extremely excited and looking forward to my brand-new Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier with the V8 diesel engine and Manual Transmission. It’s going to be one of the very last new Troopys available in New Zealand.
@@IndependenceOverland Thanks, my Dad purchased his first four-wheel-drive in 1974! It was a new FJ40 and I find it ironic that my first Toyota is a New 78 Troopy and I’ll be picking Her up in the first two weeks of 2024.
@IndependenceOverland you'll be surprised the tacoma wheel base allows you to do steep/longer rock climbs than shorter wheel base. I love it, never feels tippy either.
Never heard of the Trail Hunter here in Australia but looks like a sick vehicle! Those interior shots too, wow! I’m an FJ fanboy 100% but excited to see what you’ll do with the Tacoma. Your hard work is paying off. Enjoy!
Thank you sir! I am an Fj fanboy too of course, and I’m sure the Fj will be recovering the Trailhunter from time to time. Part of the reason I’m modernizing the Fj a little is so it doesn’t look too ancient next to the new truck!
Same with me. Had my heart set on Grenadier til the price increase and started looking at 4-runner or Land Cruiser. I currently drive my 14 FJ, 80,000 miles.
Yeah man pricing got crazy! And the Australian increase is on top of what it already cost, so next year it could get up to almost 100k here. If it were a 70s Land Cruiser, I might be willing to save longer but for an unproven platform its a hard pill to swallow. I really do hope they prove to be solid vehicles, but I cant afford to risk it.
I feel ya on the time it takes for maintenance. I’m am in the middle of rebuilding my Kings and trying to manage the holidays at the same time. I think the best investment for owning a rig is 1. A warranty 2. Proper tools 3. Another vehicle(daily driver) and oh ya … seat covers.
Yeah, I’ve had all the stuff to rebuild my Kings for like 2 months now. 5 years ago it would have been done already, but filming + editing in all my free time makes it even harder. We have a Rav4, so I’m never truly stranded but it’s more of the wife’s vehicle and I hate having to call her to come pick me up, because the “2 hour job” turned into working until midnight 🤣🤣
Hey congrats on your new beefy boys - that scooter looks awesome - dawg gone it - went and bought one - tho not the Varla- i bought one for this ol mans creaky bod- has a seat and lots of springs LOL. Looking forward to the build out on new rig great choice. Happy safe trouble free driving and plethora of new adventures.
There’s only so much you can do with an SUV…. Yeah everything lol. I’m sold on the land cruiser. The hydrid system is genius and has been installed in so many Toyota vehicles already I wouldn’t blink. I have had a truck once upon a time and I could never go back to a truck. Maybe if the trucks only purpose was overland and you had a good cap but still having all my stuff in my van with me just works and makes sense. To each there own though.
@@IndependenceOverlandI’m sure you are going to do something cool. If I had it my way I would have a 4x4 van but suv is halfway between truck and van lol. Trucks standalone in the modern age are too much one foot in and one foot out. If every vehicle is trying to fit every need none of them are truly great at anything. The jeep gladiator is an off-road,family mover, truck thing that isn’t good at any of those things. Modern trucks are not trucks but suvs with small beds, small cars are medium cars with small cargo areas. When single cab trucks rode like crap but lasts forever, and suvs guzzled gas but did 75% of everything, and small cars were cheap AND got great fuel mileage. Now we are somewhere between everything and nothing really makes sense. That’s just my feelings though.
So happy for you and your new Trailhunter! Can’t wait to see your buildout - know it will be inspiring! I’m waiting for my TRD Pro to come in - didn’t pay over MSRP - but had to look around for sure at multiple dealers 😂 Also liked your Varla scooter! Looks like a blast! If you have time, what size of tire to you recommend upgrading my TRD Pro to? Thinking of adding small lift and go to 17” 34-35” Thoughts if you have time. Thanks so much! Keep up the great channel!
I’m gonna do a 17 and 35s. These top tier Tacomas already have a slight lift so I’m not sure you will need to do any lifting to fit a 35. I should know fairly soon.
Should do a 200 series, but for new the GX. Taco Trail Hunter will be sweet though! You loose all the sealing off the elements generally, but can be done if done right with a slide in of sorts could get the versatility you need. Can't wait to see!
Awesome choice! I am excited to see your new content with this new truck. Everyone is buying the trd off road. Glad to see your going the trail hunter route. Depending on how expensive it will be I want one too. Hope I am surprised and it is cheaper than 60k
I've been in the market for some sort of E commuter vehicle. I used to have a Yamaha TW200 and really loved that little fat tired dual sport. Looking for something with a similar use. I've been eyeing an e bike or possibly some of the electric dirt bikes/motorcycles that are fully tagged. I've looked at scooters as well but I've got a 7 mile commute on gravel to work.
6' bed is best bed! Didn't realize they extended the wheelbase on the 4th gen long beds. I still think my longbed can go anywhere though sometimes I gotta austin powers it! Looking forward to seeing what you do to your new truck when it shows up!
I know I'm a bit late to the party having just discovered your channel, but am very much looking forward to watching this adventure! Out of curiosity, did you give any consideration to the Colorado/Canyon? And if not, why not? I'm currently weighing the pros/cons of the Colorado (Bison w/ factory AEV mods) vs Trailhunter...
I’m definitely a Toyota guy, but before the announcement of the 4th Gen Tacoma I definitely looked at the Chevy lineup. The problem is they don’t have a lot of after market support. It’s there, but not as many options. The Fj is actually fairly limited on options compared to something like a 4runner, so I wanted to build something with a lot of options.
Thank you for sharing your craft with us. I'm a huge fan of Toyotas and I've been "overlanding" my whole life (50+ years) here in Utah. BTW We've always called it "Jeeping". Anyhow, my imputus for commenting is because I've been tempted to grab the last of the naturally aspirated V6 '23 Tacomas before all these new powertrains take over. My '04 TRD V6 Manual Tacoma has been to hell and back and I absolutely love that truck... My big concern with the hybrids is water. I ford creeks/streams/rivers often enough to make it an issue. Fortunately, my Tacoma hasn't ever hydrolocked but, I'd never take it through any swift water that's more than about 2 feet anyway. What have you discovered on this topic of driving through water in a hybrid? I'm sure Toyota wouldn't put out any high-maintenance machines but, I haven't been able to find any info on the concern of "overlanding" through water in a Toyota hybrid. I tend to overthink expensive decisions and cold swift water is terrible place to get stuck... Besides, just about ANY vehicle can get washed away in swift water that's greater than 30 inches - snorkel or not. All of the hybrid electronics has to be higher than that. Right? Nevertheless, I agree with your choice. Hybrid is better than twin turbo *if you can afford it. Just had to share my concern with the hybrid water stuff. My mom has a 2nd gen hybrid Highlander and it's incredible. I would never take it on any tough trails though. If you know more about this topic of off-road hybrid capabilities and maintenance, please share. I'm guessing that I'll be driving a hybrid too one day. Safe travels mate!🤘
Yes sir, I will actually be covering this in upcoming videos. Toyota hasn’t yet shared wading depths, but I am quite certain the water sealing on the hybrid system is above an beyond, it has to be for the long term just for the sake of the warranty. The batteries are inside the vehicle, so it’s just an electric motor at the transmission to really worry about. But I am right there with you, I am taking a bit of a leap of faith buying this thing that Toyota did their due diligence. More info coming soon! If this system were just gonna Tacoma, I might have doubts. But being that the exact powertrain is on the new LandCruiser name, I know Toyota wouldn’t risk screwing it up. But time will tell!
He is gonna go tacoma non hybrid. 5th gen 4runner would be good too since its tried and tested, all the new 2024/2025s are hybrid and gx 550 and LC are too expensive to take it really offroading so they would be boring to have just to get groceries.
Sounds cool, bet you’re well excited about doing that. The truck looks mega really like the inside set up too looks smart but doesn’t seem will be too delicate if that makes sense. The Toyota hybrid systems I think are very very smart, we have for our car a Rav 4 which I realise is totally different to what you will be doing. But the combustion and electric power is amazing together works so well and the transfer of the drive to the wheels so clever. When I drive my 2001 Ford ranger truck that I use most the time for work and all that, it’s seems like a tractor. Anyway go steady Sam
Yeah a lot of people aren’t happy about the hybrid setups, which I understand to an extent. But actually reading into the details it’s a really cool system that people are a little too scared of. I’ll dive into more of that in upcoming videos! This truck looks insane from my perspective. People have been calling it a “baby tundra” and looking at the frame, it really is. I think it’s being underestimated how much emphasis Toyota put into making this thing stout. It’s a “midsized” truck with the bones of a Tundra/Landcruiser. It’s the Hilux many have asked for, and now people are mad about it! 😂 I’ll help change folks mind! Thanks Sam! 🙏
Also - good you didnt go with the Tundra. Engines blowing... oops. Prob with mfg metals inside. Owners encouraged to bring em in but actual fix not known - Whhaaaaa?? May have to bite and replace full engines. Man... Toy is known for being more careful -but so it goes...
The hybrid models actually don't offer a manual, so It will indeed be an auto. Honestly though I prefer an auto for this kind of stuff. Manual all the way in HD trucks, and sports cars though!
The black ones look incredible! The only issue is it would be always dirty, and pin stripes would be horrible in a short amount of time. Especially since these things are so wide, its gonna get a lot of scratches on it.
No, production on the hybrids won’t start until April. Assuming I do in fact get one from the first few weeks, I’d say May/June time frame. Of course I’ll hope for earlier.
Great call on the TrailHunter!! I’m sure you’ll have tones of fun with it🤌 I gotta say though, I CANNOT wait for that SwayBar Disconnect vid for the FJ!! Got a 2007 in Voodoo Blue like yours, and I’m head over heels for such an option If it’s anything like KDSS(or, even better, E-KDSS), I’m sold 🫡
Fully intend on it. It’ll be mostly stock for a while, as I do want to review these things as they come. I’m hoping to keep as much stock as I can anyway. A warranty is a good thing to have for this kind of stuff!
A hybrid power train doesn't give you more power. At best it gives you the ability to save up power for later use, but in the end it isn't more power. You take losses 3 times by the time you use it.
Yes, it comes from batteries. But this particular hybrid is designed to give you more power when you need it rather than efficiency. So just cruising will charge it, and when you need the full output it’s there. Also, the truck starts off of the hybrid motor.
@@IndependenceOverland i had the 2nd gen prius. i have a 3nd gen prius and a 2nd gen tacoma. at no point have i wished for any part of my prius experience to be in my tacoma. no one in the "prius community" talks about the hybrid drivetrain as a source of a desirable performance boost. but toyota got the tacoma guys to believe it. from toyota's own marketing materials, the purpose of the hybrid drivetrain is to help toyota make their corporate targets. that's it. all we wanted was a 3rd gen tacoma with bigger wheel wells so we don't have to do cab mount relocations. the new tacoma can't even use a bolt-on high-clearance rear bumper.
@@j.b.708 I think you’re misunderstanding the hybrid systems on the new trucks, as the Prius has a very different design. It won’t work anything like the Prius does. It’s an electric motor between the engine and transmission that can deliver power to eliminate turbo lag, or when going up hill with a trailer, etc. The only real comparison between the two systems is that Toyota has made the battery and motor systems pretty reliable, as many of the original cars are still on the road. Yes, Toyota built these trucks to meet emissions. If they don’t design vehicles to meet the emissions of tomorrow, then they have to redesign everything in just a few years which costs a ton of money. And if they don’t design them to meet emissions standards, they can’t sell trucks at all. Every make and manufacturer is going to small displacement now. Even Chrysler has their new Hurricane engine to replace the old Hellcat V8. As someone who works on diesels, I’m quite excited about the new engine offering. They gave us the torque output of a v8/small diesel without the MPG of the v8 and without the DPF system of the diesel. Will it be just as reliable as the old NA V6? No clue yet, but being that this new powertrain is in all of their top selling vehicles that all have a reputation of being reliable, Toyota Japan and Toyota USA sure have a lot of confidence in it.
@@IndependenceOverland Congrats bro! I just bought a 4runner this year, my wife and I are planning to take our first overland trip in the spring inspired by your channel. Keep up the awesome content 👍🏼
No range, and also after looking at interior dimensions it’s not all that much bigger than my Fj. I need something with interior space, and chopping the roof off of a $90k truck to hardly have any room just didn’t make sense for me. I do still like them, but I think I’d like the Quartermaster more myself.
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Heck yeah! I'm looking forward to seeing it. I've really enjoyed switching to a truck for overlanding, and I think you'll love it too.
Sooo many comments slipped through the filter. Yeah man, I think having a truck is going to be a big change. Its not as much truck as what you have of course, but having a place to hide away from poor weather with some heat sure is going to be nice!
I think you go with the Lexus GX 550. Why? It's a 6-cylinder, it's not a hybrid, and it's got Lexus quality. Lexus quality is a whole other level beyond Toyota. Lexus service is also a whole other level beyond Toyota or any other brand. When installing weird accessories that haven't been installed before on any vehicle, the Lexus dealership will be more forthright with you and trustworthy. If you haven't owned a Lexus before this may sound silly, but a lot of people who don't even want a Lexus drive a Lexus because the dealer service is miles beyond what you get with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, etc. Also, the Land Cruiser has the same motor as the Lexus RX 500hs and those haven't been completely trouble-free.
Lexus is Toyota
The hype is building! Hope we'll meet up once we both get our new truck
Dude, we have to!
Super stoked for the Tacoma build! But also really pumped to see your updates to the FJ.
Thanks Eric! Sorry, I just saw this comment slipped through the cracks! I appreciate you watching!
Saw it coming a mile away, but I think you made the right decision. I went from an FJ to a mid size crew cab short bed and the added space is phenomenal. You’ll notice a huge difference. Can’t wait to see the canopy camper on it 😉
😃. There’s a lot more than just that coming!
Even the 4Runner has about twice the rear space of an FJ.
my head says the taco, my heart says the GX
The heart wants what the heart wants
Tacoma is my guess, and I’ve been telling you for years is so nice to have a secondary vehicle to ride around while your rig is set up 😂
I am so excited to see you modernize your FJ and see your new Tacoma build! I just got my FJ a year ago and am looking for ideas on where to start my own build. Thank you for doing what you do!
I’ll be starting to get some of those videos out after the new year. They will be spaced out a bit, but hopefully all done by Spring.
Cant wait to see some new LandCruiser builds
Me too!
Excited to see the build! Congrats on the new truck
Thanks man, I assure you it will be pretty crazy by this time next year!
Good choice!! 👍🏼 I’m sure it can’t come soon enough for you 😁
Its driving me craz!
I just ran into your channel today and just subscribed as I’m super stoked to see you start building out your Taco! I’m planning on getting the Land Cruiser when I can get my hands on one, so I will definitely be watching you for some ideas as I start to build that up at the same time!
My Fj build will prove to be helpful as well, as I think I have nailed down a pretty functional SUV setup. Your LC will have a lot more room which will make a big difference for you! I wish I could afford both, the LC looks awesome!
Well I’m going to look forwards to your new build Overland 4x4, unfortunately down under. We do not get this model of Toyota.
But I’m extremely excited and looking forward to my brand-new Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier with the V8 diesel engine and Manual Transmission.
It’s going to be one of the very last new Troopys available in New Zealand.
We’ll be assured if I had the choice of a v8 Troopy, that is absolutely what I would be building too! Congrats!
@@IndependenceOverland Thanks, my Dad purchased his first four-wheel-drive in 1974!
It was a new FJ40 and I find it ironic that my first Toyota is a New 78 Troopy and I’ll be picking Her up in the first two weeks of 2024.
Welcome to the Taco/pickup gang! Wooooooooo!
I really am excited! A shorter wheelbase is awesome for crawling, but I just need more space! Thank you!🙏
@IndependenceOverland you'll be surprised the tacoma wheel base allows you to do steep/longer rock climbs than shorter wheel base. I love it, never feels tippy either.
HA! Knew it would be a Tacoma. Happy for you and looking forward to the videos.
Its gonna be a cool one!
i'm hyped to follow the #trailhunter build! DO IT!
Way to go dude!! Can't wait to see it and maybe tag along with you on an adventure in the future!!
One of these days I plan to do a Patreon meetup somewhere, to do an overnight camp out session.
Never heard of the Trail Hunter here in Australia but looks like a sick vehicle! Those interior shots too, wow! I’m an FJ fanboy 100% but excited to see what you’ll do with the Tacoma. Your hard work is paying off. Enjoy!
Thank you sir! I am an Fj fanboy too of course, and I’m sure the Fj will be recovering the Trailhunter from time to time. Part of the reason I’m modernizing the Fj a little is so it doesn’t look too ancient next to the new truck!
@@IndependenceOverland Have you heard of the Yokohama Geolandar G017 XD AT tires, do think these are a good choice for overlanding.
Same with me. Had my heart set on Grenadier til the price increase and started looking at 4-runner or Land Cruiser. I currently drive my 14 FJ, 80,000 miles.
Yeah man pricing got crazy! And the Australian increase is on top of what it already cost, so next year it could get up to almost 100k here. If it were a 70s Land Cruiser, I might be willing to save longer but for an unproven platform its a hard pill to swallow. I really do hope they prove to be solid vehicles, but I cant afford to risk it.
Looking forward to seeing the new build, Tyler.
Thank you! It’s gonna be a really cool one!
I feel ya on the time it takes for maintenance. I’m am in the middle of rebuilding my Kings and trying to manage the holidays at the same time. I think the best investment for owning a rig is 1. A warranty 2. Proper tools 3. Another vehicle(daily driver) and oh ya … seat covers.
Yeah, I’ve had all the stuff to rebuild my Kings for like 2 months now. 5 years ago it would have been done already, but filming + editing in all my free time makes it even harder. We have a Rav4, so I’m never truly stranded but it’s more of the wife’s vehicle and I hate having to call her to come pick me up, because the “2 hour job” turned into working until midnight 🤣🤣
Ha! That’s funny…my mother lives across the street, retired. She usually lets me borrow her Rav4.
Hey congrats on your new beefy boys - that scooter looks awesome - dawg gone it - went and bought one - tho not the Varla- i bought one for this ol mans creaky bod- has a seat and lots of springs LOL. Looking forward to the build out on new rig great choice. Happy safe trouble free driving and plethora of new adventures.
Thank you!
There’s only so much you can do with an SUV…. Yeah everything lol. I’m sold on the land cruiser. The hydrid system is genius and has been installed in so many Toyota vehicles already I wouldn’t blink.
I have had a truck once upon a time and I could never go back to a truck. Maybe if the trucks only purpose was overland and you had a good cap but still having all my stuff in my van with me just works and makes sense. To each there own though.
The way I’m going to put this thing together couldn’t be done with an SUV. You will understand soon!
@@IndependenceOverlandI’m sure you are going to do something cool. If I had it my way I would have a 4x4 van but suv is halfway between truck and van lol. Trucks standalone in the modern age are too much one foot in and one foot out. If every vehicle is trying to fit every need none of them are truly great at anything. The jeep gladiator is an off-road,family mover, truck thing that isn’t good at any of those things. Modern trucks are not trucks but suvs with small beds, small cars are medium cars with small cargo areas. When single cab trucks rode like crap but lasts forever, and suvs guzzled gas but did 75% of everything, and small cars were cheap AND got great fuel mileage. Now we are somewhere between everything and nothing really makes sense. That’s just my feelings though.
So happy for you and your new Trailhunter! Can’t wait to see your buildout - know it will be inspiring! I’m waiting for my TRD Pro to come in - didn’t pay over MSRP - but had to look around for sure at multiple dealers 😂 Also liked your Varla scooter! Looks like a blast!
If you have time, what size of tire to you recommend upgrading my TRD Pro to? Thinking of adding small lift and go to 17” 34-35” Thoughts if you have time. Thanks so much! Keep up the great channel!
I’m gonna do a 17 and 35s. These top tier Tacomas already have a slight lift so I’m not sure you will need to do any lifting to fit a 35. I should know fairly soon.
Should do a 200 series, but for new the GX. Taco Trail Hunter will be sweet though! You loose all the sealing off the elements generally, but can be done if done right with a slide in of sorts could get the versatility you need. Can't wait to see!
Happy for you, and cannot wait?
Let’s go!
Awesome man your hard work is gonna pay off keep it up and you will have us here along for the ride 🤙
I’ve got a whole lot of Fj content I am catching up on currently, and hopefully late Spring you guys will start seeing the Tacoma popping up!
Good choice!!
It’s gonna be soooo cool to see how these things perform!
Nice choice with the Trail Hunter!!! Cant wait to see the build process! Congratulations and Merry Christmas!👍
Thank you sir! Natalia and I were just talking about you last night (in a good way of course!). I hope you are well my friend! Merry Christmas!🎁🎄
Awesome choice! I am excited to see your new content with this new truck. Everyone is buying the trd off road. Glad to see your going the trail hunter route. Depending on how expensive it will be I want one too. Hope I am surprised and it is cheaper than 60k
Thanks man! I am assuming between 60-65 at this point 🫤
I've been in the market for some sort of E commuter vehicle. I used to have a Yamaha TW200 and really loved that little fat tired dual sport. Looking for something with a similar use. I've been eyeing an e bike or possibly some of the electric dirt bikes/motorcycles that are fully tagged. I've looked at scooters as well but I've got a 7 mile commute on gravel to work.
Yeah 7 miles on a scooter would be quite excessive. Your teeth would have all rattled out within a week 😂
I was 100% convinced you are getting GX ,crap I am not playing lottery this month
haha, they look sweet but I need the truck bed this time around!
6' bed is best bed! Didn't realize they extended the wheelbase on the 4th gen long beds. I still think my longbed can go anywhere though sometimes I gotta austin powers it! Looking forward to seeing what you do to your new truck when it shows up!
I SO wanted the 6 foot bed, but the 144” wheelbase is identical to a 4 door f150 now.
@@IndependenceOverland that's crazy. My turd gen is long but not that long!
New to the channel, hope to see ya at overland East! Love all your content
One of these years we will make it to East. Its a loooong haul for us!
I know I'm a bit late to the party having just discovered your channel, but am very much looking forward to watching this adventure! Out of curiosity, did you give any consideration to the Colorado/Canyon? And if not, why not? I'm currently weighing the pros/cons of the Colorado (Bison w/ factory AEV mods) vs Trailhunter...
I’m definitely a Toyota guy, but before the announcement of the 4th Gen Tacoma I definitely looked at the Chevy lineup. The problem is they don’t have a lot of after market support. It’s there, but not as many options. The Fj is actually fairly limited on options compared to something like a 4runner, so I wanted to build something with a lot of options.
Thank you for sharing your craft with us.
I'm a huge fan of Toyotas and I've been "overlanding" my whole life (50+ years) here in Utah. BTW We've always called it "Jeeping".
Anyhow, my imputus for commenting is because I've been tempted to grab the last of the naturally aspirated V6 '23 Tacomas before all these new powertrains take over. My '04 TRD V6 Manual Tacoma has been to hell and back and I absolutely love that truck...
My big concern with the hybrids is water. I ford creeks/streams/rivers often enough to make it an issue. Fortunately, my Tacoma hasn't ever hydrolocked but, I'd never take it through any swift water that's more than about 2 feet anyway.
What have you discovered on this topic of driving through water in a hybrid?
I'm sure Toyota wouldn't put out any high-maintenance machines but, I haven't been able to find any info on the concern of "overlanding" through water in a Toyota hybrid. I tend to overthink expensive decisions and cold swift water is terrible place to get stuck... Besides, just about ANY vehicle can get washed away in swift water that's greater than 30 inches - snorkel or not. All of the hybrid electronics has to be higher than that. Right? Nevertheless, I agree with your choice. Hybrid is better than twin turbo *if you can afford it. Just had to share my concern with the hybrid water stuff. My mom has a 2nd gen hybrid Highlander and it's incredible. I would never take it on any tough trails though.
If you know more about this topic of off-road hybrid capabilities and maintenance, please share.
I'm guessing that I'll be driving a hybrid too one day. Safe travels mate!🤘
Yes sir, I will actually be covering this in upcoming videos. Toyota hasn’t yet shared wading depths, but I am quite certain the water sealing on the hybrid system is above an beyond, it has to be for the long term just for the sake of the warranty. The batteries are inside the vehicle, so it’s just an electric motor at the transmission to really worry about. But I am right there with you, I am taking a bit of a leap of faith buying this thing that Toyota did their due diligence. More info coming soon!
If this system were just gonna Tacoma, I might have doubts. But being that the exact powertrain is on the new LandCruiser name, I know Toyota wouldn’t risk screwing it up. But time will tell!
Great video as always. Pls dont sell your FJ. You’re the reason why I bought one.
It’s not going anywhere man, these trucks will be in videos together!
He is gonna go tacoma non hybrid. 5th gen 4runner would be good too since its tried and tested, all the new 2024/2025s are hybrid and gx 550 and LC are too expensive to take it really offroading so they would be boring to have just to get groceries.
Sounds cool, bet you’re well excited about doing that. The truck looks mega really like the inside set up too looks smart but doesn’t seem will be too delicate if that makes sense.
The Toyota hybrid systems I think are very very smart, we have for our car a Rav 4 which I realise is totally different to what you will be doing.
But the combustion and electric power is amazing together works so well and the transfer of the drive to the wheels so clever.
When I drive my 2001 Ford ranger truck that I use most the time for work and all that, it’s seems like a tractor.
Anyway go steady Sam
Yeah a lot of people aren’t happy about the hybrid setups, which I understand to an extent. But actually reading into the details it’s a really cool system that people are a little too scared of. I’ll dive into more of that in upcoming videos!
This truck looks insane from my perspective. People have been calling it a “baby tundra” and looking at the frame, it really is. I think it’s being underestimated how much emphasis Toyota put into making this thing stout. It’s a “midsized” truck with the bones of a Tundra/Landcruiser. It’s the Hilux many have asked for, and now people are mad about it! 😂
I’ll help change folks mind!
Thanks Sam! 🙏
@@IndependenceOverland ha brilliant, look forward too the progression of how it adapts to what you would like it too be.
So stoked
I’ve driven the same vehicle for SO long. It’s gonna feel like I’m cheating on a girlfriend 🤣🤣
Congrats!! So exciting!
Thanks man! I’m so excited to drive something new. I love the Fj, but you of all people understand how fun a new project is!
@@IndependenceOverland Yesss the fun is just about to start! Makes it all worth it
Bronco or tacoma, lets go!
Tacoma trailhunter it is! Nice choice!
🙏 thank you sir! I really hope these things will be everything Toyota has promised they will be!
What if the 4Runner comes out with a Trail Hunter?!
It very likely will!
Also - good you didnt go with the Tundra. Engines blowing... oops. Prob with mfg metals inside. Owners encouraged to bring em in but actual fix not known - Whhaaaaa?? May have to bite and replace full engines. Man... Toy is known for being more careful -but so it goes...
Definitely love the choice. Much respect. Are you going to be getting a manual?
The hybrid models actually don't offer a manual, so It will indeed be an auto. Honestly though I prefer an auto for this kind of stuff. Manual all the way in HD trucks, and sports cars though!
Hopefully the picture of the black trail hunter I sent you got your eye
The black ones look incredible! The only issue is it would be always dirty, and pin stripes would be horrible in a short amount of time. Especially since these things are so wide, its gonna get a lot of scratches on it.
Great choice and amen to not paying over MSRP - f dealerships that price gouge!!!
Yeah, I’m not a rich man and I can’t do that kind of thing. It’s already going to cost 3x what the Fj cost me 15 years ago. 😵💫
@@IndependenceOverlandright?! My 08 FJ was 28k out the door if I remember right in the fall of 07 ha!
Can’t wait to see it buddy. Are they in production yet and is there a delivery date?
No, production on the hybrids won’t start until April. Assuming I do in fact get one from the first few weeks, I’d say May/June time frame. Of course I’ll hope for earlier.
I was only watching this to see if you were going to build a Grenadier. I’ve seen all the other vehicles being built out before nothing new.
👍
Great call on the TrailHunter!!
I’m sure you’ll have tones of fun with it🤌
I gotta say though, I CANNOT wait for that SwayBar Disconnect vid for the FJ!!
Got a 2007 in Voodoo Blue like yours, and I’m head over heels for such an option
If it’s anything like KDSS(or, even better, E-KDSS), I’m sold 🫡
I’ve got it on, working with the manufacturer on a few small things but I hope to release that video within a month or so! Thanks man!!
The toyota tacoma
Good choice ... BUT ... beef up that suspension till you can go to WAR with it before you spend too much money on other fancy things.
Fully intend on it. It’ll be mostly stock for a while, as I do want to review these things as they come. I’m hoping to keep as much stock as I can anyway. A warranty is a good thing to have for this kind of stuff!
@@IndependenceOverland How long is the warranty?
A hybrid power train doesn't give you more power. At best it gives you the ability to save up power for later use, but in the end it isn't more power. You take losses 3 times by the time you use it.
Yes, it comes from batteries. But this particular hybrid is designed to give you more power when you need it rather than efficiency. So just cruising will charge it, and when you need the full output it’s there. Also, the truck starts off of the hybrid motor.
@@IndependenceOverland i had the 2nd gen prius. i have a 3nd gen prius and a 2nd gen tacoma. at no point have i wished for any part of my prius experience to be in my tacoma. no one in the "prius community" talks about the hybrid drivetrain as a source of a desirable performance boost. but toyota got the tacoma guys to believe it. from toyota's own marketing materials, the purpose of the hybrid drivetrain is to help toyota make their corporate targets. that's it. all we wanted was a 3rd gen tacoma with bigger wheel wells so we don't have to do cab mount relocations. the new tacoma can't even use a bolt-on high-clearance rear bumper.
@@j.b.708 I think you’re misunderstanding the hybrid systems on the new trucks, as the Prius has a very different design. It won’t work anything like the Prius does. It’s an electric motor between the engine and transmission that can deliver power to eliminate turbo lag, or when going up hill with a trailer, etc. The only real comparison between the two systems is that Toyota has made the battery and motor systems pretty reliable, as many of the original cars are still on the road.
Yes, Toyota built these trucks to meet emissions. If they don’t design vehicles to meet the emissions of tomorrow, then they have to redesign everything in just a few years which costs a ton of money. And if they don’t design them to meet emissions standards, they can’t sell trucks at all. Every make and manufacturer is going to small displacement now. Even Chrysler has their new Hurricane engine to replace the old Hellcat V8.
As someone who works on diesels, I’m quite excited about the new engine offering. They gave us the torque output of a v8/small diesel without the MPG of the v8 and without the DPF system of the diesel. Will it be just as reliable as the old NA V6? No clue yet, but being that this new powertrain is in all of their top selling vehicles that all have a reputation of being reliable, Toyota Japan and Toyota USA sure have a lot of confidence in it.
TRAIL HUNTER
I have to say, they could have made it a more interesting name, but I like what they are doing with it.
@IndependenceOverland I'm sure it'll be a very capable rig no matter the name they give it.
Last chances to guess!
For 95-100k I can sell you my 2021 Land Cruiser he with 14k miles.. I am in Colorado. At least the the lc200 has the 5.7 v8 that is rock solid.
Nah I’m good man, thanks! I’m not worried about the powertrain like most folks are.
Hopefully the scooter does not blow up when you charge it…….!
Haha, you’re right about that! Lithium can be scary!
not waiting until the FJ is released again? I think you'll regret it....just saying...it's not much longer to wait.
Nope, I need more space. I carry a ton of camera equipment. We have talked about getting a second rig in the future. We will see.
Please not a bronco 😆
🤣🤣
@@IndependenceOverland Congrats bro! I just bought a 4runner this year, my wife and I are planning to take our first overland trip in the spring inspired by your channel. Keep up the awesome content 👍🏼
The grenadier is not even close to a troopy, it does not have the range. The tank is to small
No range, and also after looking at interior dimensions it’s not all that much bigger than my Fj. I need something with interior space, and chopping the roof off of a $90k truck to hardly have any room just didn’t make sense for me. I do still like them, but I think I’d like the Quartermaster more myself.
Lmao “unique Tacoma build” slaps on 2” coilover lift and add a leafs and a bunch of overland crap on a rack
Make sure to subscribe so you can be proven drastically wrong. 😉
@@IndependenceOverland adding a leaf to a coil sprung rear would definitely make it unique though!
@@IndependenceOverland let me guess… portals lol
@@RevereOverland chill Mr click bait
@RevereOverland 🤣🤣 I’m about to show the world something new!