2024 Toyota 4Runner Review, Pricing, and Specs
Toyota 4Runner introduction
The Hilux and the Land Cruiser are famous worldwide among Toyota’s SUV series. His Hilux Surf, a wagon-type car that was once very popular in Japan, is now sold as the Fortuner (SW4 in South America), although it is now loved worldwide as an overseas-only car. The Hilux van type was initially created in 1984 as a Hilux short body with an FRP roof, and a wagon type was added in 1986. For 26 years until 2009, it underwent four model changes and gained popularity in Japan for its ability to handle rough roads and its sporty styling. It was sold in North America as the 4Runner in 1984 and became a popular model as a midsize SUV that offered a new automotive lifestyle. I had the opportunity to ride this 4Runner in Chile, South America, so I would like to introduce it to you.
Toyota 4Runner in forest
The concept of driving sportily around town and demonstrating excellent off-road ability on rough roads has been followed since the Hilux Surf era. Furthermore, the expansion of electronic devices and the high rigidity of the ladder frame make it easy to drive off-road. The body size is 4,820 mm long, 1,925 mm in width, and 1,780 mm in height, making it easy to handle as an SUV. Tire size is 265/70 R17. The suspension is a double wishbone at the front and a 4-link suspension at the rear.
Toyota 4Runner engine
The engine is the same as the 1GR-FE installed in the FJ Cruiser and is a 4-litre V6 dual VVT-i with a maximum output of 275Hp/5,600rpm and maximum torque of 381Nm/4,400rpm. This engine perfectly matches the 4Runner, which weighs approximately 2 tons. The engine is the same as the 1GR-FE installed in the FJ Cruiser and is a 4-litre V6 dual VVT-i with a maximum output of 275Hp/5,600rpm and maximum torque of 381Nm/4,400rpm. This engine perfectly matches the 4Runner, which weighs approximately 2 tons.
In the North American version, the interior differs depending on the grade. Still, the interior of the Chilean version (4×4 SR5 Control Volante) that I test-drove this time is straightforward—Full-time 4WD with a center differential lock and 5-speed AT. The electronic devices include A-TRC, which improves drivability on rough roads while controlling tire spin, and DAC (Downhill Assist Control), which increases stability on downhill slopes. Like the Land Cruiser, the North American version has crawl control and multi-terrain selection.
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Toyota 4Runner flat dirt
The most fun part of running the 4Runner is flat dirt. The combination of a vehicle lighter in weight than the Land Cruiser and a 4-litre gasoline engine allows you to enjoy a stable ride. It’s also lovely to hear moderate exhaust noise as the engine reaches over 3,000 rpm. The suspension also has a soft initial response, and it absorbs minor irregularities on the road surface while following the ride, so it grips the road firmly without feeling bouncy. Even if you turn off the VSC (vehicle stability control system), use the steering wheel to trigger the car, and use the accelerator to turn it, it’s effortless to handle.
Toyota 4Runner interior
I lowered the tire pressure, dropped the surface pressure, turned the sub-transfer dial to L4L, and tried driving in the desert. Even in the desert, the vehicle’s light weight works to its advantage and runs smoothly without showing signs of filling up. What is noteworthy is that when running at low speeds, thanks to the amount of low-speed torque you wouldn’t expect from a gasoline engine, you can smoothly climb sandy climbs without building up momentum. Even if you are about to get buried in soft sand, if you quickly press the accelerator to apply enough drive to overcome the resistance of the sand, the engine picks up well, so you don’t get buried. If you are worried about driving, you can turn on A-TRC, which will take control of the tire spinning due to sand, prevent it from spinning, and apply drive to the tire on the opposite side that has traction. You can run without getting buried. If you get stuck, turn on A-TRC and keep the accelerator depressed about 1/4 of the way, and it will concentrate the drive on the tires that have traction, allowing you to escape. This is excellent control.
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The 4Runner differs from the Land Cruiser Prado and FJ Cruiser, as it can be ridden stylishly around town and shows its true potential off-road. Many people probably want one because used Hilux Surf cars are still expensive in Japan. It’s perhaps one of the most accessible SUVs to drive in Japan.
