Depending on engine choice the 4Runner comes with either part-time 4WD - what Toyota calls Multi-mode 4WD - in V6 powered models or full-time 4WD with the V8. A rotating dial situated on the lower console will either transfer power from the rear wheels (H2) to all four in 4WD High mode (H4) or with a push and turn further to the right initiate 4WD Low (L4). V8 models have a switch that simply turns from H4 to L4. To lock the center differential a button is located on the dash, left of the steering wheel. Both systems are said to be up to just about any off-road task, mud, snow, dirt, rocks or sand.
The new 4Runner loses its rear brake drums in place of discs, offending some hardcore 4x4 fans in the process. They will say that drums are better in muddy conditions which might be true, but most 4Runner owners would rather have the much shorter stopping distances on pavement that 4-wheel discs provide, where slowing the 1,940 - 2,005 kg (4,277 - 4,420 lb) SUV from high-speed is paramount. They are power assisted with 4-wheel, 4-channel ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) standard. Other mechanical safety features include Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill Start Control (HSC) and Active Traction Control (ATRAC).
What about the suspension? It's no longer based on the compact pickup chassis but still uses a truck-like ladder-frame design. The differences? This 4th generation 4Runner incorporates full-length boxed section frame rails with large-diameter body mounts and 9 fully-welded cross members for increased stiffness, reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels while improving collision safety. The original 4Runner used a solid front axle, preferred for off-roading by many 4x4 purists, but after the first year it was replaced with an independent front suspension. The new model hardly departs from this architecture, sporting a 4-link system with gas shocks and coil springs in the rear, similar to the larger Sequoia which also offers the option of rear air suspension. The front suspension is a variation of last year's independent setup as well, also with double wishbones, gas shocks and coil springs.