Consumer Reports RECOMMEND 4runner!

[Thai]

Hey all,

Congrats to 2003 4Runners! They have impressed the Consumer Reports' staff!

They concluded: "The 4Runner is the only vehicle of the six we tested for this report that had all the requisites to be recommended."

Here is their summary on the 4Runner test: "The redesigned 4Runner is the best off-road-ready SUV in this price range and a marked improvement over its predecessor. Despite retaining a body-on-frame construction, the 4Runner rides better than the Murano and some other car-based SUVs. Its cabin is the roomiest and the quietest in this group. The 4Runner doesn’t provide the nimble, carlike handling of car-based models, but it is sound and secure. Based on its predecessor, reliability should be very good."

If you have access to Consumer Reports Online, here is the link:

http://www.consumerreports.org/main...1&FOLDER<>folder_id=26995&bmUID=1058563592239

 

[jharris2]

Thai -

Just be careful quoting them....they have a history of suing folks over that.

 

[peter78]

I read the August report, the 4Runner did not come in first place of the 6 tested, but it was the only one recommended, some of the other SUV's are considered a unknown, as far as reliability. If you look at the scores for all mid-size SUV's, Consumer Reports recommends just 4 vehicles. They are:

1.) Honda Pilot
3.) Toyota Highlander
5.) Toyota 4Runner
8.) Nissan Pathfinder

The SUV's that scored 2nd, 4th, 6th and 7th are not Recommended due to reliability unknowns.

Also, notice the 4Runner is the ONLY full frame design SUV recommended, the other 3 are uni-body type SUV's.

My opinion, if you want a frame designed mid-size SUV you want.... well you know what you want, RIGHT.

 

[Swaro]

I bought this magazine last night, and although I've had reservations with CR in the past, their review of the 4runner seems dead on IMO. I believe it says in the article if you want a truck framed mid-size suv, then the 4runner is far and away the one to get. Exactly my feeling! I will be spoiled for future vehicles that have ANY wind or road noise. This may be the quietest vehicle I've ever been in. I'm having an issue with the seat...the seam that runs across the seat cushion tends to roll or bunch up, and it causes really weird sensations on my butt. Like the springs are poking up. I threw a sheepskin on it this am (the seat!)--seems to help. You still can't beat German seats.

 

[peter78]

I bought this magazine last night, and although I've had reservations with CR in the past

I know what your talking about, right now they recommend a Hyundai Santa Fe.