Even if the 4Runner is now more civilized than ever, there is no doubt in my mind that it can still tackle—no, conquer, just about any off-road situation. With available Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, fuel tank and transfer case skid plates, this Toyota will never leave you stranded. Furthermore, I found the truck's steering quite precise and well-weighted, and the brakes to be solid with good pedal feel.
Royal quibble
Running boards or side steps are very common on SUVs and CUVs. Although I generally like the look, I have never found them to be very useful, especially the narrow ones as on a BMW X5 and this 4Runner. Here, the running boards are nothing short of a really bad idea. Do NOT attempt to use them in the winter as you will slip and break your face on the door or crush your nose on the steering wheel; it is always preferable to step in over them. If that wasn't enough, consider your pant legs permanently smudged if you are under 5'8” tall.
A Monarch to consider
The 2010 4Runner is all about quiet confidence, is stylish and is the first that's as competent on as off-road. For these reasons and given its $36,800 base price ($49,420 as tested), the 4Runner is a more rounded choice than the $36,820 Honda Pilot, a more intelligent and economical option than the $37,548 Nissan Pathfinder and a more modern and sensible choice over the $38,999 Ford Explorer.
The only realistic competition could come in the form of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee but we'll have to wait and see. If these real-deal SUVs are your bag, you'll be hard-pressed to find one as well-rounded as the 4Runner. Just make sure to delete the side steps...
photo:Toyota
Royal quibble
Running boards or side steps are very common on SUVs and CUVs. Although I generally like the look, I have never found them to be very useful, especially the narrow ones as on a BMW X5 and this 4Runner. Here, the running boards are nothing short of a really bad idea. Do NOT attempt to use them in the winter as you will slip and break your face on the door or crush your nose on the steering wheel; it is always preferable to step in over them. If that wasn't enough, consider your pant legs permanently smudged if you are under 5'8” tall.
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| There is no doubt in my mind that it can still tackle just about any off-road situation. |
A Monarch to consider
The 2010 4Runner is all about quiet confidence, is stylish and is the first that's as competent on as off-road. For these reasons and given its $36,800 base price ($49,420 as tested), the 4Runner is a more rounded choice than the $36,820 Honda Pilot, a more intelligent and economical option than the $37,548 Nissan Pathfinder and a more modern and sensible choice over the $38,999 Ford Explorer.
The only realistic competition could come in the form of the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee but we'll have to wait and see. If these real-deal SUVs are your bag, you'll be hard-pressed to find one as well-rounded as the 4Runner. Just make sure to delete the side steps...
photo:Toyota
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