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Around The Web
“getting into the back seats is a little more challenging than in a sedan.”
“budget-conscious buyers will probably suffer sticker shock”
“Among the quieter SUVs of this type”
“quiet, mega-posh interior”
QUALITY | 6 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
“getting into the back seats is a little more challenging than in a sedan.”
MyRide.com
“budget-conscious buyers will probably suffer sticker shock”
Kelley Blue Book
“Among the quieter SUVs of this type”
ConsumerGuide
“quiet, mega-posh interior”
Motor Trend
The 2009 Toyota 4Runner doesn’t carry people as well as the best crossovers, but its interior is well trimmed.
Being a full-frame, off-road-capable vehicle means the 4Runner is a bit tougher to climb into than a car-based SUV or a crossover; families should consider this point before buying.
Regarding the third row, optional on SR5 and Limited models, Edmunds calls it an “afterthought,” claiming “it provides minimal legroom even for kids and it doesn't fold flat into the floor.” MyRide.com remarks that “getting into the back seats is a little more challenging than in a sedan.” “The 2nd-row bench is nicely contoured but low, allowing good headroom but forcing adults to sit knees-up,” comments ConsumerGuide, who also warn that “it's a squeeze for three.”
Some editors “noted that the 4Runner's rather shallow floorpan makes you feel as if you're sitting too close to the floor.” ConsumerGuide considers the front seats “comfortable but fairly low to the floor,” an issue Motor Trend also explores.
Kelley Blue Book deems the 4Runner's interior “handsome, functional and assembled of the finest materials with the tightest tolerances.” Ergonomics and controls, aside from deeply set gauges and non-intuitive, gimmicky HVAC controls, are judged “aesthetically pleasing and functional, with most controls easy to find and use,” says Edmunds.
“Wind rush and tire roar evident at highway speeds, but neither is severe,” asserts ConsumerGuide, adding that the 4Runner is “among the quieter SUVs of this type.”
Conclusion
The 2009 Toyota 4Runner is not as versatile or as roomy as the best car-based crossovers, but it ranks high compared to its full-framed peers.
