Although many car buyers now like smaller and more versatile sport utility vehicles, others still want traditional truck-based SUVs. As such, Toyota hopes it can continue to prosper with the 4Runner. Launched in 1983, it’s still prominent in the Japanese manufacturer’s versatile SUV list.
The 4Runner has been a favorite for years. It’s a rugged off-road vehicle that also operates well in everyday driving. It has long been complementary to the larger Land Cruiser, another staple in Toyota’s SUV lineup.
The original 4Runner was a compact, two-door pickup that featured a removable top. Many changes have occurred, yet the mid-sized SUV remains a truck-based vehicle that can go head-to-head with the Ford Explorer, Chevy Blazer and Nissan Pathfinder.
Many new owners may buy the 4Runner planning frequently head off-road yet rarely do. Instead, they mainly drive the SUV in normal conditions. That was the case in late October when I test drove the 2008 4Runner in Northern California during a week of terrific fall weather,
Several years ago, I purchased a used 4Runner mostly for the four-wheel drive capability it would provide for winter ski trips to Lake Tahoe. While many upgrades and improvements were added in the decade, another redesign is probably a good idea.
The last remodel came in 2003, but plenty has changed in the SUV category. This year, competitors Dodge Durango, Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee all feature redesigns; the 4Runner is virtually the same.
One prime area of concern is third-row seating — the 4Runner screams for increased space. It provides sparse legroom, is cramped overall and seats don’t fold flat, an inconvenience. Ride quality and
fuel efficiency (16-20 mpg) should also be addressed in the fifth generation 4Runner.
Despite some negatives, the 4Runner is a solid choice. It’s reasonably price, $28,415 for the base model with two-wheel drive, and increases to $39,135 for the Limited model. It has all-wheel drive and a many goodies in the standard package.
Most 4Runners feature a healthy 4.0-liter, V6 with 236 horsepower that serves as a nice cruiser in freeway situations. For car shoppers who want more power, the 4Runner is also available with a 4.7-liter, V8 with 260 horsepower. All 4Runners come standard with 5-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity runs 5,000 pounds in the V6 and increases to 7,300 with the V8.
Since the 4Runner is truck-based, don’t expect road manners of the Toyota Highlander. Still, the 4Runner delivers a fairly smooth ride and is much improved over my 1997 model. And for the adventurous, it reportedly can take on steep climbs and navigate some difficult terrain when it heads off paved surfaces.
FAST FACTS
Power — 4.0-liter, V6, horsepower.
Mileage Estimates — 16 mpg (city), 20 mpg (hwy).
Standard Features — antilock brakes, brake assist, hill ascent control, antiskid system, climate control, center console, CD/MP3 player, digital media player connection, automatic headlights, rear defogger, keyless entry, full spare tire, power tailgate window, rear privacy glass, fog lights.
