2004 Toyota 4Runner Review

Specifications

A Rugged, Real World SUV

Its hard to believe that next year marks the 20th anniversary of the Toyota 4Runner. Back then, the SUV marketplace was a very lonely place, with only a handful of so-called sport utility vehicles available.

Today, the SUV is almost as dominant as the humble sedan, with Toyota counting no fewer than five in its 2004 stable.

The big 4Runner news for 04 is a third-row seating option and a tire pressure warning system. If that doesnt seem like much of an update over last years model thats because the 2003 4Runner represented a complete redesign of the SUV. That overhaul, the fourth since the 4Runners debut in 1985, gave it more power, enhanced the vehicles on and off-roading ability and provided more interior room for passengers and cargo.

For 2004, the 4Runner is available in six different models: the SR5, Sport Edition and Limited, all in either rear or 4WD. My tester was a loaded Limited V8 model, sporting a big 4.7-liter powerplant that pumps out 235 horses, and more importantly, 320 lb-ft of torque. Oddly enough, the 4.0-litre V6 produces more horsepower than the eight-cylinder at 245, but then again far less torque at 283. Torque comes into play in a big way when towing, and with the factory installed receiver hitch towing capacity for both models is rated at 5,000 pounds.

V8 4Runners feature full-time four-wheel-drive, while the six-cylinder models are equipped with one-touch 4WD, combined with a four-speed automatic transmission and Automatic Disconnecting Differential (ADD), providing the benefits of both full- and part-time 4WD in one system.

In addition, there are a number of features on the 04 4Runner which greatly add to the traction and stability of the vehicle. These include: a Vehicle Stability Control system which, in concert with the standard anti-lock braking system, controls engine output and brakes; Active Traction Control, which isolates and controls the spin on individual wheels; Hill-start Assist Control, which automatically increases stability when the 4Runner is starting on a slippery incline; and Downhill Assist Control, which uses brake intervention to aid control while driving down a steep or slippery incline.

All told, these systems give a tremendous sense of stability and control to the the midsize sport utility, particularly in wet and off-road conditions. Unlike many supposed off-road SUVs, the 4Runner is all business with the ability to bushwhack with the best of them.

Inside, the cabin is spacious, comfortable, well laid out and, in the case of the Limited model, loaded with all manner of creature comforts, including a 360-watt JBL, six-CD stereo system with 10 speakers.

With a sticker price of $27,120 for the base 2WD six-cylinder model, the 4Runner is not cheap, especially when considering the final price of my V8 Limited test model came in at over the $40K mark.

Still, if youre in the market for a tough, rugged SUV with comfortable seating for up to seven, the 2004 4Runner is a solid choice with an equally solid reputation.