The 2008 Toyota 4Runner's versatility for on-road or off-road driving will satisfy prospective buyers. Introduced in 2003, the 4Runner's current model represents its fourth generation. The 4Runner does well in crash tests. In government crash tests, the 2008 model received four stars for driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests, five stars for front and rear seat safety in side crash tests, and three stars in rollover tests.
Most notably, all models come with hill start assist control (HAC), an advanced braking system, while four-wheel-drive units also add downhill assist control (DAC). New Car Test Drive reports that the rearview video camera "works incredibly well. For crash protection, the 4Runner boasts driver front air bags and front passenger air bags with Advanced Airbag System, as well as side-impact door beams in the front and rear.
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner gets the formerly optional side curtain airbags as standard equipment.
Compared to most modern crossovers, the 2008 Toyota 4Runner is outclassed in terms of interior space, ride quality and fuel efficiency. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV. Standard features on the base SR5 include 16-inch wheels, automatic climate control with rear vents, remote keyless entry, cruise control, full power accessories including a power rear window, tilt steering wheel, power front seats (V8 models), a trip computer and a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack. Stepping up to the Sport Edition adds larger 17-inch wheels, "X-REAS" shock absorbers, color-keyed exterior mirrors, power front seats (V6 models), special seat fabric and a telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. Options include a navigation system, Bluetooth, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a premium JBL audio system, a third-row seat and a two-tier cargo shelf.
The Toyota 4Runner is available with rear- or four-wheel drive and one of two engines. All 4Runners get a five-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity is 7,300 pounds on V8 models, while V6 models top out at 5,000 pounds. Front seat side airbags are also standard. The Toyota 4Runner offers roomy quarters for four to five passengers. When driven on pavement, the 2008 Toyota 4Runner delivers a smooth, controlled ride, and handling around turns is surprisingly tight and responsive for a traditional body-on-frame sport-Ute.
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner is a truck-based mid-size sport-utility model. The standard 2008 Toyota 4Runner engine is a 236-horsepower 4.0-liter V-6 with variable valve timing (VVTi). Base SR5 models of the 2008 Toyota 4Runner come quite well equipped, with standard keyless entry, cruise control, automatic climate control, and an overhead console. SR5 Sport models get an enhanced suspension, plus steering-wheel audio controls and various appearance upgrades.
Top Limited models focus on adding interior conveniences, including leather heated seats, dual-zone climate control, a premium sound system, and a 115-volt AC power outlet. Standard safety equipment on the 2008 Toyota 4Runner includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, hill descent control, vehicle skid control, and traction control. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner does quite well in crash tests, with four stars in the federal frontal test and a commendable five stars for side impact.