I'm new to the forum and have been looking into getting an 02 Excursion Limited. I have always had a thing for them, and I have been doing a TON of hi-way driving lately (over 24k since march) and currently have a tiny car and need some extra space. I normally wouldn't think of getting a vehicle so big, but the prices are right these days and I like the idea of the diesel power/economy/reliability. That said, I'm looking at two right now. One is 4x4 and one is a 4x2. I guess my main question is what the mileage difference between the two is? I like the idea of having 4x4 because my parents live in Western NC and I like going on ski trips etc but it isn't totally necessary. Also, if anyone knows the difference in insurance if there is one that would be awesome. I will hopefully be getting a new vehicle within the next couple of weeks so I guess I will have to ask my insurance co but any info will be greatly appreciated!

I have been doing some research and its pretty amazing what just chip-tuning does to these engines and have read that chip/intake/exhaust/good fluid change/fuel additive would be the best set of mods for milage. I have an old BMW that I'm starting to renovate or slowly turn it into a track car but I will have that to scoot around town in, so the ex will be for hauling people and going on long trips primarily so hi-way economy/reliability is the first priority.

Thanks!

 

I know there are probably 4837839287484672374973890 posts about thinking to buy a truck, but I did search and didn't find anything about the milage of the 4x4 vs the 4x2. So I apologize if this is a repost, but I did look!

 

I don't recall reading anything about a MPG difference between 2WD & 4WD, but the 4WD will come in handy, and get you a higher resale value later on.

 

I guess with a 9,000lb vehicle weight really isn't an issue, and with the unlocking hubs I guess there isn't really much to ad to rolling resistance. Hmmm...

 

I went through the same decisions before buying our 4X2 and so far we have been more than happy with the 4X2 in the snow and I am one who had a 4x4 before this one.

 

So I hear there is a totally different suspension setup on the 4x2s? Is it a coil vs leaf? I'm going to drive the 4x2 tomorrow so we shal see how it goes.

 

The 2WD has coil spring independent front suspension with leaf springs in the rear. The 4WD has leaf springs and solid axles front and rear.

 

From looking at the sticker EPA MPG on other vehicles, you will typicaly see 1-2 MPG less with 4X4. But yo can get more variation than that from vehicle to vehicle. So a efficient 4X4 could feasibly get better than a 4X2, but not likely. Some people like the ride/handling of the 4X2 better, less truck-like.

 

Hmm, thats interesting...

Thanks for the info!!