2010 Toyota 4Runner Review

The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner mid-size SUV retains its awkward name, but is longer, wider and taller and more refined, with styling that is more muscular, but blockier. There's no loss of impressive off-road abilities, especially with the Trail version, which reminds me of the original Reagan-era 4Runner.

While many have flocked to car-based crossover vehicles, the 4Runner remains a genuine body-on-frame SUV, aimed a lot at outdoor types. Still, the 4Runnner has a surprisingly relaxed ride on roads for an SUV-although its live rear axle results in a side-to-side toss on some rough roads.       

The 4.7-liter V-8 with its 260 horsepower has been replaced by a 4-liter V-6 that produces 270 horsepower. The V-6 is largely a carryover, but has added variable valve timing for intake and exhaust and a higher compression ratio.

The V-6 provides quick acceleration. But, while featuring more power than the V-8, its torque rating is down 28 pound-feet to 278 pound-feet. And maximum towing capacity also has fallen a little.

Base models have a new 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 157 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The four-cylinder is fine in town, but must fight too much of the 4Runner's 4,295-4,805-pound weight to be provide anything but leisurely acceleration.

Moreover, the "four" doesn't offer much of a fuel economy advantage, delivering an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 23 on highways, compared to 17 mpg city and 22-23 highway for the V-6.

The base 4Runner has a four-speed automatic transmission, while V-6 models have a more advanced five-speed automatic with an easily used manual-shift feature..

List prices for the 4Runner are rather high.The base SR5 version goes from $27,500 to $30,915, while the Trail model is $35,700. The top-line Limited costs $37,765 to $39,800.

The base four-cylinder model comes with rear-wheel drive, while most other 4Runners are offered with rear- or four-wheel drive. Four-wheel-drive models have a low range, downhill assist and an off-road traction program.

Even the base SR5 has much standard equipment, including a power driver's seat, air conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, power windows and heated power mirrors that are commendably large.

Safety features include stability control with traction control, anti-lock brakes and a bunch of air bags.

The SR5 V6 adds the six-cylinder and five-speed automatic that lets the engine loaf at 2,000 rpm at 70 mph, while the Trail V6 adds an AM/FM/CD with eight speakers and power front sunroof. The Trail also has specific off-road items including a rear differential lock, electronic off-roading aids such as crawl control and multi-terrain select that tunes the throttle and traction control to various surfaces-not to mention special wheels and tires.

Opt for the Limited V6 and added are items including leather-covered seats, 15 speakers, a"sport alternative suspension,"  power heated driver's seat, and a "Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System" that disconnects stabilizer bars for extended wheel travel and a softer ride.

A variety of options includes the $525 backup camera in my SR5 four-wheel drive model.

The interior of the V-6 version is very quiet. There are easily reached, high-mounted controls, with especially large climate and sound system controls. However, the ignition switch is buried behind the steering wheel. Seats are supportive, and occupants sit high, although extra effort is needed to get in.

There's plenty of room for four to five tall adults, but the $1,015 third-row seat available for the Limited V6 is just for two kids.

The large cargo area has a high-but-wide opening and rear seats flip forward to increase the cargo area. The power rear tailgate window, which replaces flip-up glass, is a nice touch.  

Steering is quick and nicely weighted, although some may feel it's a bit heavy. Handling is pretty good, although the 4Runner's weight can be felt during quick maneuvers While physically larger, the new 4Runner can be easily parked. The firm brake pedal has a linear action for smooth stops.

The hood glides open on twin struts, so there's no need to fool with an awkward hood prop rod.

Mid-size SUVs aren't as popular as they once were, but the 4Runner offers plenty of active lifestyle usability.