Review
Introduction
Now in its fourth generation, the mid-size Toyota 4Runner continues the lineage of its forebears by offering rugged looks, body-on-frame construction, and on- and off-road prowess. Although newer unibody crossover utility vehicles are generally lighter and more carlike than the 4Runner, few can compete with the 4Runner’s impressive 7300-pound towing capacity. A third row is optional on the 4Runner and raises the seating capacity to seven. Four-wheel drive (4WD) is optional; rear-wheel drive is standard.
For 2008, the 4Runner offers three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited. Two engines are offered in the 4Runner: a 236-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 with 266 pound-feet of torque and a 260-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 with 306 pound-feet of torque. Both engines get a five-speed automatic transmission and run on regular unleaded fuel. Fuel economy generally falls in the mid- to high-teens. As one would expect, V-8–equipped models burn a bit more gas than their V-6 brethren.
From behind the wheel, the 4Runner feels responsive and solid. The 4Runner has precise steering, and both engines provide good acceleration. The 4Runner doesn’t feel as carlike as the Toyota Highlander, but the rugged, trucklike feel of the 4Runner is one that some customers prefer. The only negative that stands out in driving the 4Runner is the brakes. Although they are strong overall, the brakes feel a bit weak when you first hit the pedal.
Major competitors to the 4Runner include the Honda Pilot, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Ford Explorer, Mercury Mountaineer, GMC Envoy, Saab 9-7X, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Xterra, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander.
Verdict
The 4Runner is a good traditional mid-size SUV that is as adept at towing as it is at comfortably carrying passengers. Although it trades away a carlike feel and weighs more than some of its crossover competition, the 4Runner has a gruffness that some buyers look for in a sport-utility vehicle.
Click here to read our full review of the Toyota 4Runner.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Toyota 4Runner.
What’s New for 2008
For 2008, the 4Runner gets roll-sensing curtain airbags that inflate if the vehicle tips over or goes wheels up.
