2010 Toyota 4Runner debuts with Limited, SR5 and new Trail models

September 24, 4:43 PMAuto Review ExaminerJohn Matras

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Toyota introduced a new generation of the Toyota 4runner SUV, reversing a trend towards more and ever more car-like SUVs with a ruggedized edition called Trail. Trail joins the traditional SR5 and range-topping Limited, giving the 4Runner three personalities.

The 4Runner joins a full range of Toyota SUVs, actually, including the full-size Sequoia and Land Cruiser, and compact RAV4, plus the similarly-sized Highlander and FJ Cruiser, the former more road friendly and the other Toyota's maximum off-road SUV. The 4Runner shares the same frame as the FJ Cruiser.

Like every Toyota 4Runner since the model's introduction in 1984 as an SUV on a pickup truck frame, the 2010 Toyota 4Runner has body-on-frame construction and is offered with a choice of a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed ECT automatic or a 4.0-liter V6 with the five-speed ECT-i automatic. There is no V-8 in the lineup now.

The four-cylinder models will be offered with rear-wheel drive only. The six can be had with rear-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, or a full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking center differential.
The Toyota 4Runner is also has optional third-row seating.

The new 4Runner has grown, per the usual automaker tradition of new and improved lower-longer-wider, though the new 4Runner is actually taller. The 4Runner's profile is still squared off .and square-rigged, though gaining a grille that's reminiscent of Toyota's Tundra pickup.

Wheels are sized based on vehicle needs. The standard RS5 comes with 17-inch wheels while the max-lux Limited shows off with 20-inch rims. The Trail gets 17-inch rims to accommodate the fat tires needed for off-road performance. The SR5 also gets overfenders and mud guards to help tackle nasty weather and off-roading. The Trail adds a unique hood scoop, black outer mirrors, front and rear bumper guards and dark smoke treatment on the head and tail lamps.

The optional V-6 is all-new, with dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that helps produce the maximum 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. That's an increase of 34 horsepower over the prior V6, and 10 horsepower more than even the optional V8 of the previous generation. Fuel mileage improves as well, 16 city and 21 highway to 17 city/23 highway for the 4x2, and from 16 city and 20 highway to 17 city/22 highway for 4x4 models. The combined EPA estimate is 19 mpg, an a boost of more than five percent. Part of the credit, says Toyota, goes to improved aerodynamics. It's odd to be talking Cd about an SUV, but the 4Runner come in at 0.365 drag rating.

The SR5 rear-wheel drive model is available with the "proven" 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. "Proven," of course, means it has been around for a while. Still it produces 157 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque and with a four-speed automatic transmission with 2.80:1 first gear and 0.753 overdrive 4th, the 2.7 delivers 18 city/23 highway mpg.

Now standard on all models is Toyota's A-TRAC system, which transmits all available torque to wheels with traction, even with one wheel in the air. Or two or three, if you can accomplish that, though with three wheels on unforgivingly slick surfaces, the power will be transmitted to the tire with grip.

For more views of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner Limited, scroll down for the photo gallery.

New to the Toyota 4Runner is hardware previously available only on the Land Cruiser. Optional on the Trail grade only is Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS). KDSS helps keep the Trail's wheels on the ground by disconnecting stabilizer bars to allow for more axle travel. The greater suspension articulation helps with traction in slow, difficult terrain.

Also optional on the Trail is CRAWL. Like its acronym suggests, the system--its full name is Crawl Control (OK, so it's not technically an acronym) is an adaptation of traction control elements that let the driver select one of five forward vehicle speeds, and once set, the 4Runner will maintain that speed regardless of slope or obstacle. It works in reverse as well as forward.

The Multi-Terrain Select system, another Trail trim level feature, allows the 4x4 driver to dial in wheel slip control to suit the terrain. In mud and sand, more-than-normal wheel slip is permitted, allowing the wheel-spin needed in those conditions. The Mogul setting is used for extremely uneven terrain, such as V-ditches, slopes, and ridges, uphill or down, Wheel slip is minimized and the system acts more like a limited slip.

Downhill Assist Control is standard on all Toyota 4Runner models and Hill-start Assist Control, which hold the 4Runner in place on steep grade for easier start-ups.

Toyota continues double-wishbone independent front suspension but a new variable-flow rack and pinion steering should make steering easier and more precise at all speeds. Also carried over is four-link lave-axle rear suspension.

Toyota's X-REAS is standard on the Limited grad. X-REAS automatically adjusts the damping force of shocks when driving over bumpy surfaces, or when cornering. The system uses a center control absorber to cross-link shocks on opposite corners of the vehicle to reduce pitch and yaw by offsetting opposing inputs. A highway-oriented feature, X-REAS means the 4Runner can corner flatter and more smoothly, especially over rough pavement. On-road performance also benefits from Toyota's so-called Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC), an Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

An airbag counter can tally eight for the 2010 Toyota 4Runner: front, side-mounted and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side curtain airbags for the second and third row.

The usual distribution of interior accoutrements are available across the 4Runner line, for example with leather upholstery standard on the Limited, optional on the SR5 and not available on the Trail. Premium audio is naturally available, but sure to annoy outdoor neighbors in the next campsite is the “party mode” for the audio system. This setting, to quote Toyota, "raises the bass and transfers the equalization to the rear of the vehicle to provide excellent outside audio for tailgating. Party mode benefits from rear hatch-mounted speakers and is actuated by a switch, installed in the instrument panel to the right of the driver’s seat (rear hatch speakers function with, or without, party mode)."
As if your neighbors cranking up their stereo at home wasn't bad enough.

“Backed by a quarter-century of heritage combined with the integration of the latest comfort, convenience and performance technologies, the all-new fifth-generation 4Runner has evolved into one of the most advanced mid-sized truck-based SUV’s on the market while at the same time staying true to its roots as a rugged and durable off-roader,” according to Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota Division.

We look forward to experiencing the Toyota 4Runner first hand, and not doubt critics will kvetch--they always do--the Toyota 4Runner, Limited, SR5 and Trail, appear to continue and even expand the tradition of the 4Runner sport-utility vehicle.

Illustrations, top to bottom: 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail; 2010 Toyota 4Runner Limited; 2010 Toyota 4Runner SR5. All photos courtesy Toyota Motor Sales USA.

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