2004 Toyota 4Runner Review

Specifications

Exceptional Off-Road Ability

The long favored Toyota 4Runner, first introduced in 1985, was one of the original vehicles to be labeled an SUV. Now in its fourth generation, the 4Runner has evolved from its highly capable off-road roots to a 4×4 as comfortable in formal wear as it is in denim.

The 2004 4Runner has changed little stylistically from the all-new vehicle introduced in 2003. The biggest news for 04 is the addition of an optional 3rd row of seats as well as side curtain airbags. Now up to seven well protected kin can tour the outback, or alternatively head to the theater aboard a 4Runner. Drawing on an old Land Rover and Land Cruiser feature, the two third-row seats can be folded flat and pivoted up against the side wall of the cargo area when not in use. When the passenger count exceeds five, simply drop the seats into place and two extra butts can be comfortably parked in the rear.

When the two third row seats are stowed to the side, reasonably good storage is maintained in the cargo area. If maximum storage capacity is called for, the two third row seats can easily be removed from the vehicle following which the 60/40-split rear bench can be folded down, leaving a cavernous storage cavity featuring a flat floor. This type of passenger versus cargo versatility is the epitome of practicality, especially in a go anywhere vehicle such as the 4Runner.

A short time ago, Toyota lined up its latest offerings in the light truck and SUV segments then set a consort of auto journalists free in the Rockies to test the limits of their products. As a member of the said platoon of journalists, I seized upon the opportunity to put a 2004 4Runner Limited through its paces, on road and off. There is perhaps no better backdrop worldwide in which to shake down a 4X4 than the jagged, snowcapped peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

The fourth generation 4Runner is the largest to date. This most recent design exhibits a rugged image that draws upon an industrial theme. Its a theme that incorporates a mild adaptation of what I refer to as the “Mad Max” syndrome, in reference to the industrial-like beaters that Mel Gibson and company drove in the movie by the same name. This is exemplified in the angular shape of the wheel openings and large, bulging fender appliques, not to mention the bold front grille and formidable front bumper. Although somewhat aggressive in its overall design, I find the exterior of the 4Runner very appealing and distinctive, which is a benefit in these days of over-the-counter SUV designs.

Climbing into the drivers position I found myself feeling slightly constricted. Sure, there was plenty of leg room and elbow space, but something felt confining. That something, I eventually realized, related to a greenhouse featuring windows that seem slightly narrower than what I would anticipate is average in a midsize SUV. I have no empirical stats to back it up, but Im of the view that the aggressive exterior design of the 4Runner relies somewhat on slim window openings.

Once I was over my “whats different about this” stage, I was quite at home and very comfortable in the 4Runner. After making the necessary driver adjustments, I placed it into gear and headed for the open road with the V6 quietly and effortlessly moving man and machine deeper into the basin of the many craggy peaks that surrounded us. Once under way it was immediately evident that the 4Runner is a truck-based SUV. That means it is built upon a foundation mirroring that of a pickup truck. It is a body-on-frame design, which translates into greater ruggedness and off-road competence, but at the cost of a supple ride. Body-on-frame engineering is the stuff of serious off-roading and a “must have” to the off-road purists.

After alighting from the car based Toyota Highlander, the firmness in the 4Runners ride was obvious, but hardly unpleasant. It carrys itself rides in a manner similar to a decent riding pickup truck. Most road irregularities are well moderated and easily handled. Larger aberrations in the road surface can result in some uncomfortable passenger jostling, but nowhere near the banging around associated with yesteryears 4X4s when abrupt road disfigurement could result in broken fillings and compresses spinal discs.

The 4Runner utilizes an independent double-wishbone front suspension comprised of unequal-length control arms, coil springs, gas-charged shocks and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, the SUVs rigid axle is suspended by the use of a 4-link coil spring setup working in concert with gas-charged shocks and an anti-roll bar. A 4-link height control rear air suspension is also available on the 4Runner, but not sampled in this road test.

Steering the 2004 4Runner is effortless thanks in part to the power rack and pinion steering mechanism. Although little opportunity existed to push the 4Runner to the limits of its handling spectrum, I noted that aggressive cornering was free of the excessive body lean or plow that one might expect in an SUV. Highway handling felt composed and steering inputs produced the desired amendment in vehicular direction. However, vagueness in road-feel and on-center tracking required greater driver attentiveness than in other midsize SUVs that I have jockeyed through a variety of contorted backroads.

The large 17-inch all-season tires rolling beneath my test 4Runner may have contributed to the imprecise steering feedback I encountered. But thats really part of the trade off. If you desire competent off-road ability its going to require a sacrifice; that being car-like handling and ride comfort. Although when all things are considered its a pittance of a price to pay for a highly dexterous vehicle capable of carrying seven adults up, over and through the most challenging terrain.

And such was the case when the Toyota reps directed us into a snow-covered off-road testing site somewhere in the hinterland. Here we were invited to put the 4Runner to the ultimate test. A test that involved snow, sharp ascents and descents and side-angles, not to mention ruts that unlike the Great Wall, would be visible from outer space. Its in a hostile environ such as this where Toyotas heavy-duty 4Runner flourishes.

With the V6 engine, the 4WD system is painlessly engaged into a high or low range set of gears by a twist of the dash-mounted control. If the big V8 resides beneath the hood, the 4Runner will be equipped with a full-time 4WD system and a two-speed transfer case.

With the encouragement of the Toyota off-road specialist that joined our company, I ascended a nasty snow covered incline and began feeling woozy as the nose of the 4Runner pointed ever more directly at the sun high overhead. Against odds not suited to Vegas, the 4Runner clawed and grabbed its way to the top of the ascent - similar to a wooden roller coaster grinding its way to the precipice of the first great drop. “Yes,” I murmur to myself as the 4Runner leveled-off and my world resumed spinning on its preferred axis. When it comes to managing the rough stuff, there is no doubt that the 4Runner is endowed with businesslike determination.

Of course, as Isaac Newton lamented, “What goes up must come down.” And so must I in Toyotas 4Runner. Just as the bow of the 4Runner crested the incline, as instructed, I depressed the console-mounted button that activated the Downhill Assist Control. And with rapid and alternating applications of the anti-lock braking system, the Downhill Assist Control held the 4Runner to a speed of 2 to 4 mph down my steep and precarious descent - talk about maintaining control and inspiring driver confidence! With this system activated all the driver need do is point and steer, the 4Runner will do the rest. If the holdback speed is too slow for a particular descent, a slight application of throttle will disengage the system until the drivers foot is removed from the accelerator.

In addition to Downhill Assist Control, the 4Runner aids its driver with a Hill-Start Assist Control system. This is a feature that ensures the vehicle doesnt roll back or shift sideways when the drivers foot is removed from the accelerator. The product of these uphill and downhill electronic assistants is the ability for novice off-roaders to competently tackle hair raising 4×4 adventures, and hopefully live to spin a tall yarn about the experience. That being said, technology is not a replacement for skill and education. Anyone embarking upon an off-roading stint sans experience and know-how should only do so under the tutelage of a competent mentor.

With or without a mentor, drivers finding themselves in trouble with the laws of physics will appreciate the 4Runners Vehicle Skid Control system. This system can pull drivers back from the brink of disaster when a loss of control is imminent due to rapidly diminishing adhesion to the roads surface - as can be the case on wet or icy highways. And when traction becomes an issue during acceleration, the 4Runner will again step up to the plate and offer technological assistance in the way of ATRAC, Toyotas Active Traction Control System. With so much technology on board, it makes a person wonder whos really in control of our vehicles. Are we or the collective artificial intelligence of these computer-managed systems? It reminds me of the adage that “computers are not smart - they only think they are.” With that in mind, drivers ought to rely more on driving skill and prudence than electronic systems to keep them from harms way.

And harms way can present itself quite unexpectedly when surmounting steep inclines. However, regardless of the pitch undertaken in the 4Runner, the relatively large, 4.0 liter, 24-valve DOHC V6 engine propelled the 4,277 pound SUV without reluctance or strain, thanks to its 245-horsepower, 283 foot-pounds of torque and 4-speed automatic transmission. This is a smooth running duo capable of most any chore requested.

If additional acceleration or towing grunt is required, the 4Runner can be fitted with Toyotas sweet running, 4.7-liter, 32-valve V8 capable of 235-horsepower, and a walloping 320 foot-pounds of torque. In furtherance of its towing prowess, the V8 is coupled to a 5-speed auto-box, which helps keep the engines rpm level within its optimal power range. Bear in mind though, with two extra mouths to feed, V8 power comes at a fuel consumption cost.

What doesnt come at a cost are the dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, which are standard equipment on all 4Runners. Further ensuring the safety of all aboard are the standard 4-wheel disc brakes that feature antilock and electronic brake force distribution. Throughout the day of vehicular hardship, the SUVs brakes functioned flawlessly. I found them to be easily modulated and predictable in all braking situations, of which there were many. To fully round out the 4Runner safety net, side curtain airbags and front seat side mounted airbags are available as options.

Regardless of whether its the base SR5 4×2 or 4×4 model that is within a purchasers sights, or the fully loaded V8 powered 4×4 Limited version, the 4Runner will be well equipped if not saturated with creature comforts and conveniences. At minimum, all 4Runners are equipped with tilt power steering, power windows, power locks and rear hatch release, climate control, cruise control, keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/cassette, 60/40 split folding rear bench, plus accessory power outlets.

The Limited status adds power adjustable heated front seats, leather seating surfaces, premium audio, 17-inch wheels and many other creature comforts and helpful conveniences. The third row seating is an option available on all but the base model of the 4Runner. There is also a performance-oriented Sport Edition available for a very small surcharge.

I came away from the Toyota event with a reinforced appreciation for the differences between car-based SUVs and truck-based models. To say an SUV is an SUV, regardless of design and engineering, is like saying a brain surgeon is a brain surgeon, regardless of education and training. Buyers intending to purchase an SUV must give thoughtful and careful consideration to the needs their vehicle will be expected to fulfill. Under-buying or over-buying SUV capabilities can result in wasted money and disappointing performance. Wise buyers will fully research the pros and cons of car-based SUVs versus truck-based models and ensure their purchase is commensurate with their needs.

Fortunately for Toyota fans, the Japanese brand sells plenty of both. The truck-based manners of the 4Runner are no match for the highly refined ride characteristics of the Highlander; however the car-based limited off-road capability of the Highlander can hardly keep up to the supreme off-road competence of the 4×4 4Runner when needed, so make your choice wisely. Without a low-range set of gears and high ground clearance, the Highlander was barred from venturing into the more challenging outer portions of the off-road site like a child not permitted into the deep end of the pool.

In the end both are wonderfully civilized, with the 4Runner well suited both for city and country applications.