2013 Honda Accord V6 Touring: Driven
The Honda Accord is now in its ninth generation, and as we reported in our First Drive of the 2013... Read More
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rubbery on-road dynamics
Off-road is where the 4Runner is a stunner.
Up a steep climb to an 8000-foot peak in the California highlands, the 4Runner was unstoppable, scrambling confidently over loose gravel and large roots and even pausing to tow a pinned Toyota pickup out of a tight spot.
too softly sprung and has shock absorbers too gentle to ensure confidence when driven around town
Handling...proved to be decidedly less accomplished than the competition
PERFORMANCE | 7 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
rubbery on-road dynamics
Winding Road
Off-road is where the 4Runner is a stunner.
Popular Mechanics
Up a steep climb to an 8000-foot peak in the California highlands, the 4Runner was unstoppable, scrambling confidently over loose gravel and large roots and even pausing to tow a pinned Toyota pickup out of a tight spot.
Car and Driver
too softly sprung and has shock absorbers too gentle to ensure confidence when driven around town
MSN Autos
Handling...proved to be decidedly less accomplished than the competition
Edmunds
The 2012 4Runner's trail-crawling appearance might suggest that this SUV has a singular purpose; but no matter which model you choose, the 4Runner is a relatively athletic and easy-to-drive vehicle on the highway. Steering feel and maneuverability are unexpected delights in the 4Runner; at low speeds especially, the 4Runner handles with better precision and control than you might expect from such a big, heavy model, and visibility isn't bad. But you'll be reminded you're in a tall vehicle with soft sidewalls and a safe suspension calibration if you attack corners too quickly.
A 4.0-liter V-6 engine, makes 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, and feels plenty quick either off the line or at highway speeds. V-6 SR5 models are offered either with rear-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel-drive system, while Trail models are only offered with that 4WD system. Limited models get a separate full-time four-wheel-drive system that's more road-oriented.
In Trail grade (the off-road model), the 4Runner includes a host of electronics and systems meant to complement the sturdy off-road hardware. Crawl Control uses electronics to maintain a slow, steady speed when in low range, while a Multi-Terrain Select system allows driver-selectable levels of electronically allowed wheel slip for terrains ranging from soft sand or snow to solid rock. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) that's optional in the Trail model uses hydraulics to reduce motions on-road or increase off-road traction and riding comfort, with more wheel travel in that situation. Limited models get yet another setup: a so-called X-REAS system with electronically adjusting dampers, geared for flatter cornering and pavement surfaces.
Conclusion
The requisite trail prowess is here as you'd expect, but the 2012 4Runner is also surprisingly fleet-footed on the road.
