ABOUT TO BUY -- HELP!!!!

[Wisha Haddan H3]

Sounds like you never go offroad and the bottom line is highway power. So if you really prefer the FJ's highway performance over the H3's, you've already made your decision. But consider this ...

I don't know if you compared the 06's and 07's, but I love the new 3.7 L engine. It has 2 torque bumps. The first one is the same as the 3.5 liter (225 lb-ft at 2800 rpm). The second one is 242 lb-ft at 4600. You won't feel the extra power until you really step on it, but it gives me enough high end torque for passing and keeping up with my H2 big brothers on the way to the trail. The redesigned valves and heads help it run smoother than the 3.5L too. It even has Variable Valve Timing (just like the FJ).

Haven't driven the 07 Wrangler JK Ultd, but I hear it isn't any better than the H3 in terms of highway power. But I understand it's at least as good as the H3 offroad. The Rubicon definitely has better offroad amenities than the H3 - solid front axle, front-rear diff locker, electronic sway bar disconnect, BFG mud terrain tires, removable doors & roof, fold down windshield, full internal roll cage, etc. But you don't go offroad, so that's irrelevant. The H3 has more luxury amenities - leather, sunroof/moonroof, heated seats, better stereo, less road noise, etc ... which you obviously do care about. So the JK Ultd seems like a poor choice.

I have driven the FJ Cruiser and it has an excellent drivetrain. It's very fast and has a slightly better torque curve and power-to-weight ratio than the H3 in high range, so you may feel more comfortable accelerating and passing. The 6-spd manual is awesome (wish the H3 had it).

Everywhere else the H3 is superior. Offroad in 4lo, the H3 Adventure package has a gearing, tire size and tread advantage. The H3's interior and exterior design are far superior to the FJ, and it has full rear doors instead of suicide doors. The H3 handles better on road with a tighter suspension and less body roll in turns. It has full-time 4wd - which is better for cornering and safety even in dry conditions (The FJ w/ auto tranny has RWD in high range). The H3 also offers better side and rear visibility and has much wider mirrors to clear the blind spots. I usually park my H3 using just the side mirrors ... not a chance with the FJ's tall, thin mirrors.

Whatever you decide, come back and tell us. Most of us have a good natured rivalry with other brands and would wheel or road trip with anyone regardless of make and model.

[Wisha Haddan H3]

One more thing ... I live in Denver and drive up to the mountains all the time. I have full confidence passing, merging, and accelerating ... uphill, downhill and on the flats. I felt less confident in the FJ Cruiser because of the blind spots, mirrors, body roll, seating position and part-time 4wd, even though it seemed more powerful.