2003 Toyota 4Runner - One of the Original Sport Utilities Is Now All-New
The 4Runner has been creeping up the desirability ladder since its 1985 introduction, introducing luxury items that might have originally offended its 4x4 purist owners. That said its excellent off-road characteristics, due in part to a ladder-type frame and bull-low gearing, have stayed intact continuing to win it a small group of loyal fans. But the venerable model, that has been ever so slow to change, hasn't received a major update since 1996. But of course that's now old news. The all-new sport utility has gone through a monumental metamorphosis. Will its faithful following like the latest changes?
They should approve of its exterior design. It harkens back to the original in many respects, while forging a totally new direction for the midsize SUV. From profile view its angular fender bulges pay conceptual respect to the original while incorporating a modern twist. Its rear ¾ glass sections are nearly identical in shape to the first 4Runner forefather. The rest of the 4Runner is all-new, pulling bits and pieces of the Highlander and RAV4 into its grille, headlight and front and rear fascia design. That said a styling cue that mirrors the more recent past is an imposing hood scoop, now affixed to the V8 powered variation.
V8 power? OK, I'm sure a few more 4Runner fans are listening now. Toyota's 4.7-L V8 isn't a run-of-the-mill OHV lump either. Its DOHC architecture and 32-valves produce unparalleled fuel efficiency at 15.5 / 11.5 L/100 km, comparing well even to last year's V6 model's 14.4 / 11.4 L/100 km rating - 2003 V6 fuel economy specs are not yet available. In comparison the 4.6-L V8 equipped 2003 Ford Explorer Limited gets 16.8 / 11.5 L/100 km city/hwy.