4th Gen Toyota 4Runner Reviews
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Trailer and Boats Magazine: Late Bloomer
http://www.iboats.com/sites/trailerboats/site_page_1483/article_page_164.html
Toyota
http://www.iboats.com/sites/trailerboats/site_page_1483/article_page_164.html
Toyota
Thai
Elite Member
Link:
NCTD.com Review of '04 4runner
Summary
The Toyota 4Runner has grown up. The 2004 model is bigger, smoother, and more comfortable than 4Runners sold just two years ago. It has moved closer to the Toyota Land Cruiser in terms of size and technology. Yet it hasn't diverged from its roots as a highly capable off-road vehicle.
This SUV is a truck, and proud of it. If you want serious off-road capability with Toyota quality, and the company's reputation for durability and reliability, then the new 4Runner is an excellent choice. It will get you over the rocks and through the muck, but it won't make you regret its off-road capability when you're cruising the Interstate. Nonetheless, if you rarely venture off-road (and by "off road" we don't mean dirt roads), then you'll find the Toyota Highlander and other unibody, independently suspended SUVs smoother and more comfortable.
NCTD.com Review of '04 4runner
Summary
The Toyota 4Runner has grown up. The 2004 model is bigger, smoother, and more comfortable than 4Runners sold just two years ago. It has moved closer to the Toyota Land Cruiser in terms of size and technology. Yet it hasn't diverged from its roots as a highly capable off-road vehicle.
This SUV is a truck, and proud of it. If you want serious off-road capability with Toyota quality, and the company's reputation for durability and reliability, then the new 4Runner is an excellent choice. It will get you over the rocks and through the muck, but it won't make you regret its off-road capability when you're cruising the Interstate. Nonetheless, if you rarely venture off-road (and by "off road" we don't mean dirt roads), then you'll find the Toyota Highlander and other unibody, independently suspended SUVs smoother and more comfortable.
Thai
Elite Member
March 8, 2003
2003 Toyota 4Runner Limited Road Test
by Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press
2003 Toyota 4Runner Limited - Balancing Priorities
What a difference a model year makes. Toyota's 4Runner has made a quantum leap from one of the most dated in its class to what just might be the category leader. Sure there will be pundits that say the Japanese automaker had a lot of time to get it right, but at the rapid rate the midsize SUV sector moves upstream the more time taken just means the farther behind it's possible to fall.
The design is anything but far behind. Its bold, a bit daring and all Toyota truck. Fans of the brand won't be disappointed as the important styling cues are present, but that said it leaves its predecessor's conservative image way back in the dust.
Especially if the all-new 238-hp 4.7-L V8 is under the hood, like in my Limited test vehicle. While the base its 245-hp 4.0-L V6 is more than adequate for most applications the V8 moves the 4Runner along at an alarmingly quick pace. It's smooth too, with hardly a harsh vibration to upset the luxurious ambience. The 5-speed automatic, that comes standard in all trim levels, is velvety smooth while shifts are positive.
The 4Runner doesn't coddle occupants with a luxurious ride, but it won't offend sensitive behinds either. After all, it's a truck not a car-based crossover. But it doesn't handle like a truck. Actually it's surprisingly agile, performing quick lane changes with ease, managing to stay relatively flat during hard cornering and keeping composure during long, sweeping high-speed bends. This may have a lot to do with the Limited model's standard REAS sport suspension package. It's fairly easy to park too. The power steering is boosted enough to make what is often an arduous chore easy and simple.
But like I stated earlier the 4Runner isn't just about pavement prowess. Take it off the beaten track and its 4x4 capabilities truly shine. The V8 equipped Limited offers a full-time 4WD system compared to the base V6 model's part-time Multi-mode 4WD. A simple switch takes it from H4 to L4, transforming it from high-speed action to low-speed traction. Locking in the center differential takes the push of another button placed on the dash just left of the steering wheel.
While its ground clearance has been reduced slightly the addition of Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill Start Control (HSC) and Active Traction Control (ATRAC) make for a more adept off-road vehicle, especially for those less acquainted with the perils of wilderness travel. Its power assisted brakes with 4-wheel, 4-channel ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) help in both off and on-road conditions. The 4Runner Limited proved to be quick to slow down despite its 2,005 kg (4,420 lb) curb weight.
A lot of that weight is made up of features. The Limited model's 6-disc in-dash CD changer equipped 10-speaker JBL AM/FM/cassette audio system with a plus steering wheel and rear audio controls was awesome. It's easily one of the best system's I've tested in any SUV, blowing away many premium brand stereos. The dual zone climate control was easy to use and defogged winter windows quickly. Its heated cushions were much appreciated on the cold January mornings of my test, taking away the chill leather seats usually convey. It was also easy to get comfortable, with an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Its 115-volt accessory power outlet came in handy for plugging the laptop too - good idea. My family had plenty of room to stretch out, especially rear passengers, but its 5-occupant maximum means that large families won't fit in.
That said there's plenty of cargo room even though it's slightly less than the old model. It decreases to 1,150 L (40.6 cu ft) with the rear seats up and 2,050 L (72.4 cu ft) when they're folded flat - the 2002 model that was capable of 1,262 L (44.6 cu ft) with the seats up and 2,260 L (79.8 cu ft) down.
But 200-liters shouldn't make much of a difference to most owners who'll be too enamored with the high-tech dash design and improved interior build quality and high grade material to notice. The V8's purposeful punch will leave them giggling with excitement while an overall enhanced drivability catches them short of breath. Yes it's that good.
2003 Toyota 4Runner Limited Road Test
by Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press
2003 Toyota 4Runner Limited - Balancing Priorities
What a difference a model year makes. Toyota's 4Runner has made a quantum leap from one of the most dated in its class to what just might be the category leader. Sure there will be pundits that say the Japanese automaker had a lot of time to get it right, but at the rapid rate the midsize SUV sector moves upstream the more time taken just means the farther behind it's possible to fall.
The design is anything but far behind. Its bold, a bit daring and all Toyota truck. Fans of the brand won't be disappointed as the important styling cues are present, but that said it leaves its predecessor's conservative image way back in the dust.
Especially if the all-new 238-hp 4.7-L V8 is under the hood, like in my Limited test vehicle. While the base its 245-hp 4.0-L V6 is more than adequate for most applications the V8 moves the 4Runner along at an alarmingly quick pace. It's smooth too, with hardly a harsh vibration to upset the luxurious ambience. The 5-speed automatic, that comes standard in all trim levels, is velvety smooth while shifts are positive.
The 4Runner doesn't coddle occupants with a luxurious ride, but it won't offend sensitive behinds either. After all, it's a truck not a car-based crossover. But it doesn't handle like a truck. Actually it's surprisingly agile, performing quick lane changes with ease, managing to stay relatively flat during hard cornering and keeping composure during long, sweeping high-speed bends. This may have a lot to do with the Limited model's standard REAS sport suspension package. It's fairly easy to park too. The power steering is boosted enough to make what is often an arduous chore easy and simple.
But like I stated earlier the 4Runner isn't just about pavement prowess. Take it off the beaten track and its 4x4 capabilities truly shine. The V8 equipped Limited offers a full-time 4WD system compared to the base V6 model's part-time Multi-mode 4WD. A simple switch takes it from H4 to L4, transforming it from high-speed action to low-speed traction. Locking in the center differential takes the push of another button placed on the dash just left of the steering wheel.
While its ground clearance has been reduced slightly the addition of Vehicle Skid Control (VSC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC), Hill Start Control (HSC) and Active Traction Control (ATRAC) make for a more adept off-road vehicle, especially for those less acquainted with the perils of wilderness travel. Its power assisted brakes with 4-wheel, 4-channel ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA) help in both off and on-road conditions. The 4Runner Limited proved to be quick to slow down despite its 2,005 kg (4,420 lb) curb weight.
A lot of that weight is made up of features. The Limited model's 6-disc in-dash CD changer equipped 10-speaker JBL AM/FM/cassette audio system with a plus steering wheel and rear audio controls was awesome. It's easily one of the best system's I've tested in any SUV, blowing away many premium brand stereos. The dual zone climate control was easy to use and defogged winter windows quickly. Its heated cushions were much appreciated on the cold January mornings of my test, taking away the chill leather seats usually convey. It was also easy to get comfortable, with an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Its 115-volt accessory power outlet came in handy for plugging the laptop too - good idea. My family had plenty of room to stretch out, especially rear passengers, but its 5-occupant maximum means that large families won't fit in.
That said there's plenty of cargo room even though it's slightly less than the old model. It decreases to 1,150 L (40.6 cu ft) with the rear seats up and 2,050 L (72.4 cu ft) when they're folded flat - the 2002 model that was capable of 1,262 L (44.6 cu ft) with the seats up and 2,260 L (79.8 cu ft) down.
But 200-liters shouldn't make much of a difference to most owners who'll be too enamored with the high-tech dash design and improved interior build quality and high grade material to notice. The V8's purposeful punch will leave them giggling with excitement while an overall enhanced drivability catches them short of breath. Yes it's that good.
jj8111
New member
Last edited:
Thai
Elite Member
Here is a review of an '06 4runner:
http://www.theweekenddrive.com/roadtests.html?mode=article&id=1407
http://www.theweekenddrive.com/roadtests.html?mode=article&id=1407
Kmvreter
New member
Re: 2003 Toyota 4Runner Reviews
I don't have a vehicle review, other than my own experience with this truck, but...
I thought I would take the opportunity to reply to the very first post on this site (other than the Terms & Conditions) with my own 1000 milestone post. Thanks to Thai & GatorGreg. This is a great site for a great truck. Enjoy both!
ps. Before someone says it, yes I am such a post-whore.
Thai said:
I don't have a vehicle review, other than my own experience with this truck, but...
I thought I would take the opportunity to reply to the very first post on this site (other than the Terms & Conditions) with my own 1000 milestone post. Thanks to Thai & GatorGreg. This is a great site for a great truck. Enjoy both!
ps. Before someone says it, yes I am such a post-whore.
jacal
New member
I don't think we have this one yet:
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/mc/064runner.htm
(right from my home town)
J
http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/mc/064runner.htm
(right from my home town)
J
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