Toyota 4Runner History
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The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size sport-utility vehicle that is rugged and truck-based, slotting just below Toyota's larger Land Cruiser. The 4Runner has taken on the likes of the Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, and the new Kia Borrego. Additionally, the V-8-powered Lexus GX 470 and GX 460 are closely related to the 4Runner.
In most of its iterations, the 4Runner has been closely related to Toyota's compact pickup (Tacoma), and in its original 1980s iteration the model was little more than a harsh-riding Toyota pickup with a topper over the bed and some very basic seating in place. That all changed with the generation that was introduced in 1996, which emerged as a more stylish separate model in its own right, but still sharing four-cylinder and V-6 powertrains with the pickup.
For 2003, the 4Runner was again redesigned, this time becoming significantly larger, more refined, and more lavishly equipped—though it still followed a body-on-frame design. A small, barely usable third-row seat was optional, and for the first time Toyota offered an optional V-8 on the 4Runner. The 4.7-liter V-8 actually produced less power than the V-6 early on, but its 320 foot-pound torque rating was much higher. While these 4Runners had nice interior appointments, ride quality could still be rather bouncy and harsh, but several more sophisticated chassis systems offered on the 4Runner included an off-road-oriented X-REAS hydraulic system and an air suspension on the Limited model, good for towing and ride quality. This 4Runner also offered an increased range of convenience options, including a navigation system, backup camera system, and JBL audio.
An all-new 4Runner was introduced for the 2010 model year and marks a return to form in some ways to the 4Runner's former focus of off-roading and towing/hauling capability. The V-8 engine option has been dropped, and while a new base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine has been introduced on 2WD models, most 2010 4Runners come with a 270-hp, 4.0-liter V-6. Four-cylinder models get a four-speed automatic while V-6 models get a five-speed automatic. The new Trail Edition appeals directly to off-roaders with the company's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), plus off-road tires, a locking rear differential, and other upgrades, while the Limited model carries over the X-REAS system and remains loaded with comfort and convenience features.
Although the 4Runner is still less fuel-efficient than more modern crossover utes, it has been rated well for safety, with mostly top scores for the 2010, and its reliability and longevity are legendary.
In a review of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner, TheCarConnection.com notes that the 4Runner has good steering compared to other truck-based SUVs, although third-row space is again very limited. Trail models are the most desirable for those who intend to adventure off-road with the 4Runner but are very pricey, with a well-equipped one hitting the $40k mark.
