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Halfway through the third generation, the 4Runner receives a number of upgrades this year.
The following changes are made for 1999 model year.
1. Exterior Equipment
The 2-light multi-reflector type headlights have been adopted to achieve a sharper and sportier image. A hood bulge has been adopted on the sports package for the SR5 grade model for the U.S.A. to achieve a sharper and sportier image. The shape of the radiator grille and the front bumper has been changed to achieve a front view with presence and a powerful image. Projector fog lights that are built into the front bumper of the 5UZ-FE engine model are standard equipment on the limited grade and optional equipment other than this. A clear lens has been adopted for the clearance lights and turn signal lights, thus achieving the sense of integration with the headlights and improving their appearance. Water-repellent glass that inhibits the adhesion of water drops on the glass surface has been adopted. This glass is standard equipment for the front door windows on the 5VZ-FE engine model and for the back door windows on all models, and optional equipment for the front door glass on the 3RZ-FE engine model. This glass has a water-repellent coating applied to the glass to repel water drops from the glass surface. The water-repellent coating reduces the contact surface between the water drops and the glass surface to ensure visibility and enables the water drops to roll off easily.
2. Interior Equipment
A location for storing the headrests when the rear seat is folded down has been provided on the bottom of the rear seat cushion. An overhead console with a built-in map light is newly provided. The size of the rear console has been made larger resulted in great improvement for receivability of small articles.
3. 3RZ-FE Engine
A service port for inspecting the evaporative emission control system has been provided between the charcoal canister and the VSV for EVAP.
4. 5VZ-FE Engine
A service port for inspecting the evaporative emission control system has been provided between the charcoal canister and the VSV for EVAP. For details, see the General 1999 Features section. A WU-TWC (Warm Up Three-Way Catalytic Converter) for improving exhaust emissions has been adopted on the California specification models. The hot wire type mass air flow meter has been changed to the plug-in type. Its basic operation is the same as that of the previous type. 4-hole type fuel injectors have been adopted to improve the atomization of fuel. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’99 Tacoma.
5. Transfer
On the limited grade 4WD model, a VF3AM transfer, which is based on the VF2A transfer and contains a center differential mechanism, has been adopted. This VF3AM transfer is a multi-mode 4WD transfer that offers the advantages of a part-time 4WD that switches between 4WD and 2WD mode as necessary, and of a full-time 4WD that excels in driving performance.
6. Body
A silencer to reduce the engine noise has been provided on the outer dash panel and the engine hood.
7. Seat Belt
Front seat with pretensioner and force limiter has been adopted. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’98 Land Cruiser.
8. Air Conditioning
A fully automatic controlled type air conditioner is standard equipment on the limited grade model. This air conditioning system in the ’99 4Runner has the following features. This system can automatically control the fresh-air/recirculation selection, blower outlet selection, airflow volume selection, compressor control, and temperature control. Furthermore, this system displays the operating condition on the display of the heater control panel and on the switch indicators. Heater control panel is the push button type. A quick-joint type construction that joins the air conditioner tubes with clamps has been adopted. The self-diagnosis system used can be controlled and displayed on the heater control panel. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the 1999 Camry Solara.
9. Body Control System
Items that were controlled on the ’98 model by the integration relay and the back door ECU are controlled on the ’99 model by the body ECU, the integration relay in the combination meter, and the back door ECU.
10. Combination Meter
A level sensor is provided in the combination meter to detect the inclination of the vehicle. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’98 Land Cruiser. This sensor prevents the fuel gauge from indicating erroneously due to the fluctuation of the fuel surface, which occurs when driving on a slope. Additionally, the functions that were previously performed by the integration relay have been added to the meter. And an odometer and trip meter which uses LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) have been adopted.
11. Wireless Door Lock Remote Control System
The wireless door lock remote control system has been newly adopted.
12. Theft Deterrent System
The theft deterrent system of the 5VZ-FE engine model is standard equipment on the limited grade and optional equipment other than this. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’98 Camry.
13. Engine Immobiliser System
The engine immobiliser system of the 5VZ-FE engine model is standard equipment on the limited grade and optional equipment other than this.
14. Power Window System
A one-touch auto up-and-down function and a jam protection function have been added to the driver and front passenger doors. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’98 Land Cruiser.
15. SRS Airbag
A 3-sensor type airbag system has been adopted with the addition of a front airbag sensor, which senses the impact of a frontal collision.
16. Seat Belt Warning System
A seat belt warning for front passenger has been newly provided in the center cluster. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’98 Land Cruiser.
17. Moon Roof
One-touch full open function has been newly adopted.
18. Power Outlets
Two power outlets are adopted into the center cluster.
The third generation Toyota 4Runner enters its fourth year with more standard features and options than any 4Runner to date. A new front fascia and 4WD system for the Limited grade are just a few of 4Runner's numerous upgrades for 1999. All three trim levels -- 4Runner, SR5 and Limited -- receive upgrades for the 1999 model year.
Every 1999 4Runner receives a redesigned front bumper, valence cover and grille with new multi-reflector headlamps with an auto-off function. 1999 models also feature special UV protection-treated glass on the windshield and front- and rear-door windows, as well as water-repellant glass on the front door and rear window. Interior amenity upgrades include an overhead console with a garage door opener/sunglass holder, a new center console box with dual cupholders and two power outlets in the center cluster. The 4Runner's instrument panel receives a digital LCD odometer and dual trip meter.
A new storage location has been integrated into the rear seats for the headrests when the rear seats are folded forward for additional cargo space. A rear quarter-panel storage area also has been integrated into all 1999 4Runners. SR5 grade level 4Runners now feature as standard heated outside mirrors, built-in map lights in the overhead console and cruise control. In addition, the SR5 model's optional Sports Package has been upgraded to include front and rear color-keyed bumpers with projector fog lamps, fender flares, a new wheel design and a sporty hood scoop.
4Runner Limited grades receive all aforementioned upgrades plus built-in projector fog lamps, a fully-automatic air conditioner with a digital heater control panel, front power windows with one-touch auto-up/down functions and jam protection (optional in SR5 and 4Runner grades), keyless entry with back window remote and an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer (optional on SR5 and base models). Also new for 1999, and exclusive to the 4Runner Limited, is its new multi-mode 4WD system. All Toyota 4Runners are available in both two- and four-wheel drive configurations and can be powered by either a four-cylinder or V6 engine coupled with a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's automatic transmission is electronically linked to the engine control computer to ensure smooth shifting.
The four-cylinder, two-wheel drive model is the 4Runner's base model. Powered by a 2.7-liter, 16-valve, dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder engine with balance shafts, it produces 150 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 177 lb./ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The four-valve combustion chamber combined with independent intake runners create an exceptional blend of fuel efficiency and power across the rpm range. City/highway EPA mileage estimates are 18/23 mpg with a five-speed manual transmission and 20/24 mpg with four-speed automatic transmission for two-wheel drive models. Four-wheel drive models deliver an estimated 17/21 mpg with five-speed manual and 18/21 mpg with four-speed automatic transmissions.
Additional power can be found in 4Runner's rugged V6 powerplant. This 3.4-liter, 24-valve, dual-overhead cam engine is designed to boost power in the higher rpm ranges, while providing the low-rpm torque necessary for towing and off-road use. Long independent intake runners and a large capacity air cleaner maximize the engine's performance, helping to deliver 183 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 217 lb./ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Two-wheel drive models deliver an estimated city/highway EPA fuel economy of 17/21 mpg. Four-wheel drive models provide 17/19 mpg when paired with a five-speed manual transmission and 17/20 mpg with four-speed automatic.
Toyota's 4WDemand shift-on-the-fly engagement system comes standard on all four-wheel drive 4Runner models, enabling the part-time four-wheel drive system to be engaged at speeds up to 50 mph. A One-Touch Hi-4 switch, available exclusively on 4Runner Limited models, makes shifting into high-4WD as easy as a touch of a button. All four-wheel drive 4Runners are equipped with a two-speed transfer case.
For 1999, 4Runner Limited models receive a new multi-mode 4WD system as standard. The new multi-mode 4WD feature is actually a full-time all-wheel-drive system with 2WD capability. The all-wheel 4WD mode may be used in normal driving conditions on all types of roads from dry, hard surface roads, such as pavement, to wet, icy or snow-covered roads. Driving with the new multi-mode's all-wheel drive system engaged provides the driver with a more controlled, sure-footed feel to the road because power is applied evenly to all four wheels thus improving traction.
To switch from 2WD to the all-wheel 4WD mode, simply reduce the vehicle's speed to less than 62 mph and push in the One-Touch "4WD" button located on the front drive control lever knob (on the transfer case the all-wheel 4WD mode is indicated as "H4"). Returning to the 2WD mode is just as easy, depress the "4WD" button once more and the vehicle is again operating in 2WD.
Off-road enthusiasts will find improved low-traction performance available through a locking rear differential, optional on all four-wheel drive models (except SR5 models equipped with automatic transmission). Sporting a 4.3:1 differential gear ratio, this feature locks the rear wheels together while in low-4WD, forcing both wheels to turn together.
4Runner successfully balances on-road comfort and off-road performance. Both the suspension and frame were designed to provide the long wheel travel and damping characteristics required by off-road conditions, as well as on-road smoothness and control. A coil-spring, double-wishbone front suspension features a closed structure for the lower arm. This design gives added strength while minimizing unsprung weight. Low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers cushion 4Runner's passenger cabin from the occasional bumps in the road, with stroke-dependent shock absorbers accompanying models with P265 tires.
The four-link coil spring rear suspension also utilizes low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers for optimum ride comfort. Front and rear stabilizer bars are incorporated into all models. The compliant suspension works well with 4Runner's rigid frame for maximum performance. A wheelbase of 105.3 inches contributes to ride comfort as well as impressive rear seat legroom. The frame is reinforced throughout, while dual front suspension cross members enhance 4Runner's ride and braking performance.
Braking is responsive, thanks to power-assisted, 12-inch ventilated front disc brakes with 12-inch rear drums. Models equipped with the P265 tire package feature 13-inch front ventilated discs and 12-inch rear drums. All V6 4Runners feature a four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) as standard equipment while four-cylinder models offer it as an option. This ABS system automatically switches off when the optional locking rear differential is engaged, since that feature does not allow the rear wheels to rotate independently of each other.
4Runner features three-point ALR/ELR seat belts in all outboard positions (except for driver's ELR-only seat belt), front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters and a dual front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS). Additional safety features include front and rear side-door impact beams, a two-point non-retracting seat belt in the rear center seat, center high mount stop lamp, and child protector rear door locks. For 1999, a front passenger seatbelt warning light feature has been added. A warning light located in the upper console cluster will flash until the passenger's seatbelt has been fastened.
A rugged exterior houses a spacious interior with plenty of creature comforts. Full cut-pile carpeting, front four-way adjustable fabric bucket seats and rear split folding fabric bench seat successfully blend comfort and utility. A driver-side footrest, dual front and rear cup holders, a center console storage box, and an additional power outlet in the rear cargo area make 4Runner convenient to use as well. Additional amenities include full door trim with armrests, color-keyed instrument panel, power rear window, tinted glass, headlight-on warning chime, spring-back antenna, day/night rearview mirror, dual-fabric sunvisors with passenger vanity mirror, remote fuel door and hood releases, cigarette lighter, five entry/exit assist grips, and intermittent mist cycle windshield wipers.
The SR5 grade adds several key features to upgrade its interior. A lighting package featuring an illuminated ignition key ring, ash tray and glove box light is included as standard equipment. Front map lights, power mirrors and door locks, a digital clock, tilt steering wheel, variable intermittent front and rear windshield wipers and standard cruise control round out the list of features.
The 4Runner Limited adds still more features, giving it a heightened sense of comfort and convenience. Leather seating surfaces with a leather-covered steering wheel, power driver's and passenger bucket seats, power windows and door locks and floor mats are included as standard equipment. The Limited edition also offers superb sound quality as a Premium ETR/CD with six speakers, power antenna and diversity antenna is standard.
Color and Trim
All 4Runner models are available in ten exterior colors. For 1999, 4Runner receives four new exterior colors -- Millennium Silver Metallic, Autumn Blaze Metallic, Imperial Jade Mica, Horizon Blue Metallic -- which replace Anthracite Metallic, Evergreen Pearl, Azure Blue Metallic and Cool Steel Metallic. 4Runner exteriors are complemented with Gray or Oak interiors in either cloth or leather trim.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month limited warranties are available and cover powertrain components for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with no mileage limitation.
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., reported 4Runner total calendar year-end sales of 124,221 units, up 4.8% from prior year.
