Toyota 4Runner
Introduction
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that has been in production since 1984. It is known for its rugged and durable design, as well as its off-road capabilities. The 4Runner has evolved over the years and has remained a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable SUV.
The current generation of the Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 2009 and received a refresh in 2014. It is available in several trims, including the SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, Limited, and Nightshade Special Edition. The 4Runner comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is available on all trims.
The 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and features like crawl control, hill start assist, and multi-terrain select that make it a capable off-road vehicle.
Inside, the 4Runner is spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to seven passengers. It features a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera as standard, while higher trims offer additional features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a premium sound system.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner is a reliable and capable SUV that is well-suited for those who need a vehicle that can handle both on- and off-road driving.
Performance
The Toyota 4Runner is known for its off-road capability, but it also delivers solid on-road performance. Its performance is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.
The 4Runner’s engine provides sufficient power to accelerate quickly and pass other vehicles on the highway. The SUV can go from 0 to 60 mph in just under 8 seconds. However, the five-speed automatic transmission can feel outdated compared to other SUVs that come with more modern transmissions with more gears, resulting in slightly lower fuel efficiency.
The Toyota 4Runner also offers a smooth ride on the highway, and its body-on-frame construction provides better stability and handling than unibody SUVs. The SUV’s steering is responsive and offers good feedback to the driver.
Where the 4Runner really shines is off-road. Its four-wheel drive system is highly capable, with features like crawl control, hill start assist, and multi-terrain select that make it easier to navigate challenging terrain. The 4Runner’s ground clearance is also high, which allows it to tackle steep inclines and rocky trails.
In terms of towing, the Toyota 4Runner has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, which is respectable for a midsize SUV.
Fuel Efficiency
The Toyota 4Runner is known for its rugged and durable design and off-road capabilities, but its fuel efficiency is not its strongest point. The SUV’s fuel economy is somewhat below average for the midsize SUV class.
According to the EPA, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner’s fuel economy is rated at 16 mpg in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined for the rear-wheel drive model. The four-wheel drive version is rated at 16 mpg in the city, 19 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. The 4Runner’s fuel economy is lower than many of its competitors, which offer more fuel-efficient powertrain options.
However, it’s important to note that the 4Runner’s fuel economy is somewhat expected given its rugged body-on-frame construction, which is more commonly found on trucks than on SUVs. Additionally, the 4Runner’s off-road capabilities and towing capacity mean that it is designed to prioritize performance over fuel economy.
Overall, if fuel efficiency is a top priority for you, there are other midsize SUVs that offer better fuel economy. However, if you prioritize off-road capability, durability, and a proven track record of reliability, the 4Runner remains a compelling choice.
Comfort and Convenience
The Toyota 4Runner offers a comfortable and spacious interior, with plenty of features to enhance convenience and ease of use.
The 4Runner has a roomy cabin that can seat up to seven passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in all three rows. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the driver’s seat offers a good driving position with excellent visibility. The second-row seats can recline and slide, allowing passengers to adjust their seating position for maximum comfort.
The 4Runner also offers a range of convenience features. The standard infotainment system features a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims offer a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, a premium JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Other convenience features available on the 4Runner include a power moonroof, power rear liftgate, and keyless entry and ignition. The SUV also offers a range of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
The 4Runner’s cargo area is also spacious, with up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space available when the rear seats are folded down. There are also plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console bin, glove compartment, and door pockets.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner offers a comfortable and convenient interior that is well-suited for long trips and everyday use. While it may not offer the same level of refinement and luxury as some of its competitors, it provides plenty of features and amenities to meet the needs of most drivers.
Interior and Exterior Design
The Toyota 4Runner has a distinctive exterior design that emphasizes its rugged and adventurous nature. Its body-on-frame construction gives it a solid, truck-like appearance that sets it apart from many other midsize SUVs.
The 4Runner’s exterior features include a bold, muscular front grille, flared fenders, and a high ground clearance. The SUV’s available TRD off-road package adds additional exterior features like unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and special badging.
Inside, the 4Runner’s interior is functional and durable, with plenty of storage space and a user-friendly layout. The cabin is designed to withstand rough use and features materials that are both comfortable and easy to clean. The 4Runner’s seats are supportive and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers.
The dashboard features a straightforward design, with large, easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls. The infotainment system is relatively basic, with a standard 6.1-inch touchscreen display and easy-to-use physical buttons and knobs. Higher trims offer a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, a premium JBL audio system, and additional features like navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
The 4Runner’s cargo area is also spacious, with up to 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space available behind the second row of seats. With the second-row seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands to 89.7 cubic feet.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner’s interior and exterior design are rugged, functional, and well-suited for adventurous drivers who prioritize durability and capability over luxury and refinement.
Safety
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that offers a range of standard and available safety features to help keep drivers and passengers safe on the road.
Standard safety features on the 4Runner include a rearview camera, eight airbags, stability control, and traction control. Higher trims offer additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.
The 4Runner also offers a range of advanced safety features as part of its Toyota Safety Sense P package. This package includes features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features use sensors and cameras to help detect potential collisions and provide alerts or intervene to help prevent accidents.
In addition, the 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction provides a high level of structural integrity, helping to protect passengers in the event of a collision. The SUV also offers a range of off-road safety features, including a multi-terrain select system, crawl control, and a locking rear differential, that can help drivers navigate challenging terrain safely.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner offers a strong range of safety features that can help drivers stay safe on the road, whether they are driving on the highway or off the beaten path.
Reliability
The Toyota 4Runner is known for its strong reputation for reliability and durability. It has consistently earned high ratings for dependability from reputable sources, including J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
The 4Runner is built on a body-on-frame construction, which is known for its ruggedness and durability. The SUV’s drivetrain components are also designed for toughness and longevity, with many parts engineered to withstand harsh off-road conditions.
In addition, Toyota has a strong reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the 4Runner is no exception. The company’s commitment to quality and reliability is reflected in the 4Runner’s strong resale value, with the SUV holding its value well over time.
To further enhance the 4Runner’s reliability, Toyota offers a comprehensive warranty package that includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 2-year/25,000-mile free maintenance plan. Toyota also provides 24/7 roadside assistance for the first two years of ownership.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner has a reputation for being a reliable and durable vehicle, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritize dependability and longevity.
Value for money
The Toyota 4Runner is generally considered a good value for money, given its combination of off-road capability, reliability, and durability.
Compared to other midsize SUVs on the market, the 4Runner stands out for its body-on-frame construction, which provides a ruggedness and durability that is often lacking in unibody SUVs. It also offers a range of off-road features and capabilities, including available four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, and a multi-terrain select system, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers.
In addition, the 4Runner’s reliability and longevity are well-established, which can translate into lower long-term ownership costs. The SUV’s strong resale value also makes it an attractive option for those looking to sell or trade in their vehicle down the road.
However, it’s worth noting that the 4Runner’s fuel efficiency is not particularly impressive, and its interior features and technology are not as advanced as some other midsize SUVs in its class. But for drivers who prioritize ruggedness, durability, and off-road capability over luxury and technology, the Toyota 4Runner represents a solid value for money.
Conclusion
The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged, reliable midsize SUV that offers strong off-road capabilities, impressive durability, and a range of safety features. It’s a popular choice for drivers who prioritize adventure and exploration, thanks to its body-on-frame construction, four-wheel drive options, and off-road features like a locking rear differential and a multi-terrain select system.
