2010 Toyota 4Runner
Off-Road Better Than On-Road
How times have changed. Back in the 1990s, truck-based SUVs, like the 4Runner were all the rage—everybody wanted one. Today, most people opt for the car-based “Crossovers,” like the Toyota Highlander. However, there are those who still prefer the traditional “go anywhere” sport/ute. For these folks, Toyota has a redesigned 2010 4Runner.
The latest 4Runner doesn’t look a lot different than its predecessor. It’s about the same size, and its most distinguishing features are oversized headlights and taillights that bulge out from the bodywork. They enhance the rugged SUV look, but at first glance, they appear to have come out of the wrong parts bin.
The interior of the 4Runner is simply designed and functional. Radio and climate controls are large and easy to operate. Front passengers sit high and have a commanding view of the road. Those in the second row also sit upright and have ample legroom. (A third-row seat is optional, but my test car was not equipped with one.) The storage area in the back is spacious at 90 cubic feet. An optional sliding cargo deck makes loading heavy equipment easier on the back.
The 4Runner comes in three trim levels, SR5, Trail, and Limited. The base SR5 has the usual power accessories, as well as AM/FM/MP3/CD, chrome roof rails, and a trailer hitch receiver. At the top end of the line, the Limited adds luxury features like leather seats, keyless entry and start and an adaptive suspension.
However, if you are serious about off-roading, you’ll want to opt for the Trail model. It offers a number of upgrades, including a locking rear differential, off-road tires, water-resistant upholstery, and Crawl Control. This last feature is really cool. At the push of a button, the 4Runner automatically creeps up or down a hill without driver intervention. Trail owners can also add the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS,) which can disconnect stabilizer bars for greater wheel articulation over rough terrain.
Toyota has changed the engine lineup for the 4Runner this year. The V-8 is gone, but a four cylinder joins the ranks. However, the four-banger produces only 157 horsepower, and is hardly worth considering. The 4.0-liter V-6, on the other hand, cranks out 270 hp, and has plenty of pull with 278-lb.ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic, with a manual-shift mode, delivers power to the rear wheels, or all four wheels. Gas mileage is 17 City/ 23 Highway.
I did not drive the 4Runner off-road, but by all accounts, it’s very capable. Consumer Guide echoed a number of reports by saying “…the 4Runner is tough to beat for off-road ability.” However on pavement, my SR5 left a lot to be desired. I found the handling vague. The steering felt numb and uncommunicative. The body leaned heavily in corners, and the brake pedal was mushy. The ride quality was no better. The 4Runner transmitted every irregularity of the road to my backside. It seems like it was either bobbing or giggling all the time. Yet, if you are used to driving a truck, maybe you won’t mind.
The base price of my SR5 test vehicle, which came with the V-6 and rear-wheel drive, was $29,975. With options that included leather upholstery, a moonroof, and an upgraded stereo, the bottom line was $34,239.
Snapshot Review:
Functional and Spacious Cabin
More Powerful V-6
Best Off-Road
On-Road Marginal
