better on gas

I'm not sure economical is a trait of a boxer engine. I know the AWD kills the efficiency, but I'm basing this on the "alleged" lightweight Toyota FT-86 coupe of 27-30 MPG. I've heard from friends that in AWD car platforms you'll lucky to make 25 MPG.

Keep in mind car engines are not designed for use in heavier vehicles with oversized tires. For instance, my 1.6-liter 4A-GZE gets 31 MPG in my MR2 and develops almost more peak torque than my 2.7-liter 3RZ-FE. Yet despite having nearly the same peak torque, I bet it'd only make 10-15 MPG in the Hilux because it would be operating at its limit nearly all the time due to its narrow powerband.

Regards,
BigMike