The Toyota Highlander retains the Toyota 4Runner's tough styling but costs about $1,000 less and offers better fuel economy and a more comfortable highway ride. Since the Toyota 4Runner has changed for 2010, the new model may be worth buying just for the fuel economy boost alone. The Toyota 4Runner comes in three trims: the base SR5, the luxurious Limited and the new off-road-ready Trail. Be sure to check for current Toyota deals that may be available on a new Toyota 4Runner.
While reviewers criticized the 2009 4Runner's poor fuel economy, the new 2010 model's fuel economy ratings should alleviate those complaints.
Under the hood, the 2010 4Runner packs a more fuel efficient 4.0-liter 270-horsepower V6 engine that makes a whopping 34 more horsepower than the 2009 model. According to the EPA, the 2WD 4Runner achieves 17/23 mpg city/highway; while 4WD models achieve 17/22 mpg (compare that at 16/21 for previous models). Reviewers love its standard Crawl Control system, which adjusts vehicle and engine speed to match terrain. The insurance industry gives the 2010 Toyota 4Runner top scores of "Good" in frontal offset tests and rear crash tests; side impact test scores are not in for 2010, but the previous 2009 model received scores of "Good."
Most 2010 Toyota 4Runner models come with a new 4.0-liter V-6 engine, making 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. V-6 SR5 models are offered either with rear-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel-drive system, while Trail models are only offered with that 4WD system. Limited models get a separate full-time four-wheel-drive system that’s more road-oriented.
Steering feel and maneuverability are unexpected delights in the 2010 4Runner; at low speeds especially, the 4Runner handles with better precision and control than you might expect from such a big, heavy model, and visibility isn’t bad. Inside, the 2010 4Runner gets a much-needed complete redesign of its seating. All V-6 4Runner models get electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) for safe uphill starts, and all 4WD models get Downhill Assist Control, to help maintain a slow, steady speed down steep slopes. All 4Runners also come with eight standard airbags, including front side bags, side-curtain bags for the second and third rows, and front knee bags for the driver and passenger.
The 4Runner will be offered in basic SR5, off-road-oriented Trail, and luxurious Limited models. 4Runner Trail models get an upgraded audio system with XM satellite radio, a USB port, iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth audio streaming, while top Limited models step up to 15-speaker JBL premium sound, with a Party Mode that biases output to the rear tailgate speakers for better outward projection. The desirable KDSS system that’s available on Trail models is only offered with the navigation system, at a total extra price of $4,170.
Just over a quarter of a century ago, Toyota introduced the 4Runner. Like all 4Runners, this one has a no-nonsense solid rear axle for superior off-road performance. The 4Runner's forerunners would be proud.
The 2010 Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that is offered in three trim levels: SR5, Trail and Limited. The upscale Limited trim level adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Toyota's X-REAS adaptive suspension dampers, keyless entry and ignition, automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with a six-CD changer and 15 speakers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated front seats and driver power lumbar support.
The 2010 Toyota 4Runner comes with either a four-cylinder engine or a V6, depending on trim level. The SR5 and Limited can be had in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (part-time system on SR5, full-time system on the Limited), while the Trail comes only with part-time 4WD. Towing capacity for V6 models is 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
All 2010 Toyota 4Runners come equipped with antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control, traction control, active front head restraints, front knee airbags, front-seat side airbags and full-length roll-sensing side curtain airbags.
The Toyota 4Runner is roomier than it was before, and it offers spacious seating for five passengers, with the ability to seat two additional passengers in the optional third-row seats.
At 8.2 seconds for the 0-60-mph sprint, the six-cylinder 2010 Toyota 4Runner is reasonably quick, and shifts from the five-speed automatic are prompt and refined. Despite being based on a traditional truck platform, the 2010 Toyota 4Runner boasts a smooth and controlled ride. More impressive, of course, is the 4Runner's off-road ability.