I'd also applaud if the power window switches were more intuitively located. They sit awkwardly low on the door panel beneath the door pull. Over time, one would become accustomed to their locale however they're not at the fingertips as they would be in the ideal. Apart from these quibbles, the 4Runner cabin is well built, comfortable and moderately appealing.
So, is change necessary? Yes, but merely cosmetic.
Strong V6 power and plenty of off-road technology
Although an optional V8 powerplant is available, my tester was powered by Toyota's high-spirited, 4.0 litre DOHC V6. This smooth running mill features variable valve timing with intelligence, and is capable of delivering 236 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 206 pound-feet of torque @ 4,000 rpm. According to Toyota literature, it'll use 13.5 and 10.2 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively.
A five-speed automatic transmission with electronic overdrive is the only 4Runner gearbox available. It shifts smoothly and on-cue although kick-down into passing gear isn't as brisk as it could be. A gated shift pattern allows the driver to select lower gears for improved pulling power or greater engine braking on steep descents. The V6 engine paired with the autobox delivers impressive acceleration and highway passing power- more actually than I anticipated.
V6-powered 4Runners are equipped with a multi-mode one-touch four-wheel drive system actuated by a dash-mounted switch offering 2H, 4H and 4L settings. (V8 models are equipped with full-time four-wheel drive). Protector plates are in place to shield the engine, fuel tank and transfer case.
Technology designed to keep the 4Runner composed and under control in all driving situations include Vehicle Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control and Toyota's Active Traction Control along with four-wheel antilock disc brakes with Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.
So, is change necessary? Yes, but merely cosmetic.
Strong V6 power and plenty of off-road technology
Although an optional V8 powerplant is available, my tester was powered by Toyota's high-spirited, 4.0 litre DOHC V6. This smooth running mill features variable valve timing with intelligence, and is capable of delivering 236 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 206 pound-feet of torque @ 4,000 rpm. According to Toyota literature, it'll use 13.5 and 10.2 litres of fuel per 100K of city and highway driving respectively.
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| This V6 engine is smooth and powerful enough. |
A five-speed automatic transmission with electronic overdrive is the only 4Runner gearbox available. It shifts smoothly and on-cue although kick-down into passing gear isn't as brisk as it could be. A gated shift pattern allows the driver to select lower gears for improved pulling power or greater engine braking on steep descents. The V6 engine paired with the autobox delivers impressive acceleration and highway passing power- more actually than I anticipated.
V6-powered 4Runners are equipped with a multi-mode one-touch four-wheel drive system actuated by a dash-mounted switch offering 2H, 4H and 4L settings. (V8 models are equipped with full-time four-wheel drive). Protector plates are in place to shield the engine, fuel tank and transfer case.
Technology designed to keep the 4Runner composed and under control in all driving situations include Vehicle Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control and Toyota's Active Traction Control along with four-wheel antilock disc brakes with Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.
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| The 4Runner is not afraid of bad weather. |