Solid but aging 4Runner could use a makeover
Sport- ute’s reputation, performance strong but it’s just plain and dated
Whenever I start feeling nostalgic about the “good old days,” when sport- utility vehicles were more utility than sport, I can always count on Toyota’s 4Runner to satisfy my need for a blast from the past. With the majority of today’s SUVs and crossovers little more than station wagons with all- wheel drivetrains, a genuine body- on-frame SUV with a part- time fourwheel- drive system that actually requires tugging on a shift lever to engage is a rare beast, a reminder of simpler times as well as an indicator of how far the SUV segment has morphed from its roots.
While the first two generations of 4Runner were built on a pickup platform, the last three have been built on the Land Cruiser Prado platform; an SUV not sold in North America. Even more interesting, the Prado platform also underpins the far more luxurious Lexus GX.
Yet, luxurious is not a word that will be found in the vicinity of the 4Runner. Toyota uses the word “truck,” along with adjectives such as “rugged” and “go anywhere.”
Just for comparison sake, the milder Highlander gets “wellmannered” and “easy driving experience.” This is a pretty good clue the 4Runner is no suburban dilettante. Actually, when I last drove one a couple of years ago, I suggested it would be on the shortlist of vehicles ideal for escaping a zombie apocalypse, especially if it’s the tougher- looking Trail Edition.
Toyota obviously intends the Trail to be able to tackle paths less taken, adding technologies and systems designed to maximize offroad prowess. These include the previously mentioned lever- type 4WD selector, plus four- wheel crawl control, multi- terrain select system and ABS, automatic disconnecting differential and “kinetic dynamic” suspension system. Of those features, the multi- terrain select system — the knob is in a ceiling panel above the rear- view mirror — is the most driver interactive, allowing wheel slip to be tailored to better handle specific off- road conditions through four settings: “mud and sand,” “loose rock,” “mogul” and “rock.”
Though bashing through the boonies is within the 4Runner’s capabilities, it’s more likely use will include hauling duties. All models come with a standard tow package — including heavy- duty tow- hitch receiver, 4+ 7 pin wiring harness, trailer brake controller pre- wire, supplemental transmission cooler and transmission fluid temperature gauge. Towing capability is 2,268 kilograms.
All of the above might suggest the 4Runner Trail Edition is some knuckle- dragging Neanderthal. It’s not, though it ain’t pretty by any means, with a face only a mother could love ( it reminds me of a bulldog) and a totally unnecessary hood scoop. The same applies to the interior, which appears to have been designed by someone who played with those big plastic building blocks as a child. Hop into the driver’s seat and one is presented with a big chunky steering wheel, a big blocky centre stack and big, well- marked knobs and buttons for the assorted functions and conveniences, plus a chunky shift lever protruding from the slotted gates in the centre console. It’s a look that, though completely functional, is also very dated ( the fifth generation 4Runner has been on the market since 2010).
That said, there’s an excellent view of the road ahead from the front seats, which are broad and comfortable. And there is the requisite number of modern conveniences appropriate to the Trail’s $ 45,475 price. The Trail Edition comes with unique black seats with red stitching, plus such exclusive exterior styling cues as black roof rails, dark silver brushed metallic trim, tonneau cover, sliding cargo- area tray and more.
The heavy- duty and heavy ( 2,111 kilograms for the Trail Edition) 4Runner is no muscle- bound ogre that needs to be tamed. It’s quite easy to drive, though not exactly scintillating.
As for fuel economy, I averaged 14.3 litres per 100 kilometres, respectable for a mid- sized gaspowered SUV.
The 4Runner is not one of those vehicles that inspire lust or envy. It’s a functional, though aging, sport- ute with a solid rep. And, until there’s a major redesign to this hauler, I wouldn’t expect much to change.