5G 4Runner : best choice for french canadian Consumer Reports.

[Arterisk]

I just received the annual car review of the french canadian equivalent of CR. (Protégez-vous) and I was happily surprised to see that the 4Runner is their best choice for SUV (true SUV, not crossover) vehicles and got a 5-stars rating.

Here's the article :
http://i44.tinypic.com/ftmtlx.jpg

Translation :

The 4L V6 has a wide power range, but is noisy. It goes well with the speedy and smooth transmission. Ride safe and stable, impressive for a true 4 x 4. Precise direction, but light. Braking power despite the assisted pedal is hard and difficult to modulate. Part-time 4x4 system for base model, permanent all-wheel drives optional.

The Trail Edition Package includes a 4 x 4 with 4 modes and a suspension that allows disconnecting stabilizer bar for easy off-road driving. Towing capacity of 2268 kg (5000 lb). The dashboard is square-shaped with large clear dials and a prominent centre console. Instrument panel positioning is logical despite the many buttons of the heating / air conditioning (limited).

Attractive materials. Comfortable seating. Interior space well utilized. Enhanced group is expensive for its content. Trail Edition and Limited with Navigation overpriced. Excellent resale value provided. Very high risk of theft; parts marking recommended.

Reference among the traditional 4 x 4 truck platform.

What I really like of their reviews is that they separate crossovers from true SUVs, not like the original Consumer Reports.
For Trail & Limited owner, please take note that those cost 10k more in Canada than in the US, so the overpriced quote does not apply in the US.

 

[Socco]

Finally! Quebec did something right! :hiding:

 

[scanny]

Very high risk of theft? I hope it's only in Quebec, my insurance payments went down comparing with cheaper Ford Escape I had before. I thought that 5th gens parts shouldn't be in high demand in black market, most of 5th gens are still under warranty. Besides there are not many 5th gens around. And 4Runners are specific to North America I don't think that there is a demand for them in Europe. I might be mistaken of course...

 

[keeganxt]

Very interesting contrast to what CR had to say about it in the annual car issue... like the 3 or 4 lowest in the entire mid-size SUV range.

Still like mine!

 

[desertred]

The 4L V6 noisy? I have a 24 year old XJ with 240K and a convertible as my other vehicles. Other than the initial start up roar, my T4R is like a sound proof room!

 

[Batang.Gapo]

The 4L V6 noisy? I have a 24 year old XJ with 240K and a convertible as my other vehicles. Other than the initial start up roar, my T4R is like a sound proof room!

I agree, 5th T4R engine is quiet, IMO...