1994 - 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV produced by the Japanese manufacturer Toyota. It has been in production since 1984 and is currently in its fifth generation. The 4Runner is known for its off-road capabilities, with an available four-wheel drive system and rugged body-on-frame construction. It is often favored by outdoor enthusiasts, off-road enthusiasts, and families who desire a reliable and spacious vehicle. The 4Runner is also equipped with advanced safety features, such as Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. It has a spacious interior with optional third-row seating, making it a great choice for families or those who desire extra cargo space. Overall, the Toyota 4Runner is a dependable, versatile SUV that excels in the outdoors and on the road.

The Toyota 4Runner has gone through several generations and redesigns since its introduction in 1984. Here is an overview of the different models, generations, and significant redesigns of the Toyota 4Runner:

First Generation (1984-1989):

• The first-generation Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 1984 as a compact SUV based on the Toyota Hilux pickup truck.
• It featured a removable fiberglass top, seating for five, and a rear bench seat that could fold for additional cargo space.
• The first-generation 4Runner was available with either a 2.4L four-cylinder engine or a 3.0L V6 engine.

Second Generation (1990-1995):

• The second-generation Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 1990 and featured a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor.
• It also had improved off-road capability, thanks to the addition of a multi-link rear suspension and available four-wheel drive.
• The second-generation 4Runner was available with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine or a 3.0L V6 engine.

Third Generation (1996-2002):

• The third-generation Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 1996 and featured a more modern and streamlined design.
• It had a longer wheelbase and increased interior space compared to the previous generations.
• The third-generation 4Runner offered a choice of a 2.7L four-cylinder engine, a 3.4L V6 engine, or a supercharged version of the V6.

Fourth Generation (2003-2009):

• The fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 2003 and featured a more rugged and aggressive design.
• It had a stronger chassis and improved off-road capabilities, thanks to features like a locking rear differential and hill descent control.
• The fourth-generation 4Runner was available with a 4.0L V6 engine or a 4.7L V8 engine.

Fifth Generation (2010-Present):

• The fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 2010 and features a more muscular and rugged design.
• It has a body-on-frame construction, which further enhances its off-road capability.
• The fifth-generation 4Runner is available with a 4.0L V6 engine and offers various trims and configurations, including the off-road-focused TRD Pro model introduced in 2015.

Throughout its various generations and redesigns, the Toyota 4Runner has maintained its reputation as a durable and capable off-road SUV, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous individuals.

The Toyota 4Runner is available with two different engines: a 4.0-liter V6 engine and a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 4.0-liter V6 engine is the better option, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.

The 4Runner's powertrain is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The transmission shifts smoothly and is responsive to driver inputs. While there may be some initial hesitation when accelerating from a stop, once the vehicle is moving, acceleration is strong and steady.

In terms of performance, the 4Runner is a reliable and capable off-road vehicle. It features a body-on-frame construction and is built to handle challenging terrains. The 4WD system on the 4Runner is excellent, providing good traction and stability in rough conditions.

As for fuel efficiency, the 4Runner is not the most fuel-efficient SUV, thanks to its heavy weight and sturdy construction. It's rated at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, but real-world fuel economy may be lower, especially if the vehicle is used regularly in off-road or towing situations.

The fuel economy, or MPG, of a Toyota 4Runner varies depending on the model year and engine type. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner with a 4.0-liter V6 engine and four-wheel drive has an estimated fuel economy of 16 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2021 Toyota 4Runner with a 4.0-liter V6 engine and rear-wheel drive has an estimated fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon in the city and 21 miles per gallon on the highway. Keep in mind that factors such as driving style, terrain, and vehicle maintenance can affect fuel economy.

Interior: The Toyota 4Runner has a spacious cabin that accommodates up to five people comfortably. The interior is well-crafted with high-quality materials, giving the cabin a premium feel. The dashboard layout is easy to navigate with buttons and knobs in the right places. The front seats are supportive and can be power-adjustable, while the rear seats are spacious enough to accommodate adults. The cargo area is also large with 47.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row, expanding up to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Exterior: The Toyota 4Runner retains the classic truck-based SUV styling. It has a rugged exterior that speaks to its off-road ability. The front fascia features a large grille, with LED headlights and fog lights. The wheel arches and side panels are muscular, with a pronounced C-pillar that gives the vehicle a distinctive look. The 4Runner comes with an available sunroof and roof rails for an added utility.

Comfort: The Toyota 4Runner comes equipped with a host of comfort features. It has air conditioning, power windows, locks and mirrors, and cruise control. The base model also comes with cloth seats, though higher trims offer leather with heated and ventilated front seats. There is an available moonroof that brightens up the cabin and provides an open-air feel. The vehicle's excellent suspension system provides a comfortable ride even when on rough terrain, and the cabin is quiet, even when travelling at high speeds. Additionally, the 4Runner has advanced sound insulation materials that reduce noise, vibration and harshness levels, ensuring a comfortable and peaceful ride.

The Toyota 4Runner offers a range of infotainment and connectivity features to enhance the driving experience.

One of the standout features of the 4Runner is its touchscreen audio system, which comes standard on most trim levels. The system includes a 6.1-inch or 7-inch touchscreen display, depending on the trim level, and offers a host of functions, including AM/FM radio, CD player, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming, and voice recognition.

In addition to the standard touchscreen system, the 4Runner also offers an available Entune Premium Audio system with Navigation and App Suite. This system features a larger 8-inch touchscreen display and includes advanced navigation capabilities, real-time traffic updates, predictive traffic information, and a suite of mobile apps for weather, sports, stocks, and more.

For those who prefer to use their smartphones for navigation and entertainment, the 4Runner also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows users to seamlessly integrate their iPhone or Android smartphone with the vehicle's infotainment system, giving them access to their favorite apps, navigation, and music directly on the vehicle's touchscreen display.

In terms of connectivity, the 4Runner offers available Wi-Fi Connect Powered by Verizon. This feature allows passengers to connect up to five devices to the vehicle's built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, providing internet access on the go.

Other connectivity features available on the 4Runner include a USB port and auxiliary audio input, allowing users to connect and charge their devices, as well as an available 120-volt power outlet for charging larger devices like laptops or tablets.

Overall, the Toyota 4Runner offers a range of infotainment and connectivity features to keep drivers and passengers entertained and connected while on the road. Whether you prefer to use the built-in touchscreen system, smartphone integration, or take advantage of the vehicle's Wi-Fi hotspot, the 4Runner has options to suit your needs.

The Toyota 4Runner has several safety and driver-assistance features, including:

1. Adaptive Cruise Control - This feature helps maintain a set distance between the 4Runner and the vehicle in front of it.

2. Lane Departure Warning - A visual and audible alert that warns the driver if they are drifting out of their lane.

3. Automatic High Beams - This feature helps to improve visibility at night by automatically switching between high and low beams.

4. Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection - This system uses radar and camera technology to detect potential frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.

5. Blind Spot Monitoring - A warning light on the outside rearview mirror alerts the driver if there is a vehicle in their blind spot.

6. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert - This feature alerts the driver if there is a vehicle approaching from either side while backing up.

7. Vehicle Stability Control - This system helps maintain traction and control during emergency maneuvers or adverse road conditions.

8. Tire Pressure Monitoring System - This system alerts the driver if the tire pressure is too low.

9. Anti-Lock Brakes - This system prevents the wheels from locking up during emergency braking situations.

Overall, the Toyota 4Runner comes equipped with several advanced safety and driver-assistance features to provide a safe and secure driving experience.