Toyota's Entune multimedia system is optional, as are power running boards and a navigation system. Trail editions get a hood scoop, unique 17-inch wheels, front and rear bumper guards, and smoked headlamps and tail lamps.
Revamped inside and out, the latest Toyota 4Runner retains its body-on-frame construction. For the latest model year Toyota has stopped offering the 4Runner with four-cylinder power, leaving a V6 as the only engine option.
The SUV is available in three variations: the top-of-the-line Limited, the base SR5, and the off-road-oriented Trail grade. SR5 and Trail 4x4 models have a two-speed lever-operated, part-time four-wheel-drive system with neutral position, while the Toyota 4Runner Limited is equipped with full-time, four-wheel-drive with a locking center differential and employs a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. To enhance grip, the A-TRAC system is now standard equipment on all 4x4 models.
The Trail package offers Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System as an option. KDSS improves terrain-following ability by disconnecting stabilizer bars to allow for more axle travel, and better suspension articulation in slow uneven terrain.
Toyota's Crawl Control feature is standard on the Trail grade. The Trail grade also features a Multi-Terrain Select system which allows the 4x4 operator to dial in wheel slip control to match the terrain.
All 4x4 models are standard-equipped with Downhill Assist Control, which is designed to augment the low-speed ascending ability of low-range by holding the vehicle to a target speed with no driver intervention.
Coupled with a car-like ride, trail-rated drive trains, a sturdy V6 and up to 7-passenger capacity, Toyota's reputation for reliability carries the 2012 4Runner to new heights as an able 4WD companion with road manners and good economy.
A full 28 years since this affordable midsize off-roader inception, the fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner enters 2012 with a few new standard additions in the multimedia department and, by popular demand, a newly optional manual transmission for the SR5 and automatic running boards for the SR5 and Limited. The base SR5 and top-shelf Limited are still offered in rear-wheel (RWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD), the trail-rated and aptly-named Trail is expectedly limited to 4WD, and only the SR5 now offers a 5-speed manual, whereas the rest of the lineup is still relegated to a relatively smooth 5-speed auto-manual only.
The SR5 and Limited are both available in RWD as well as 4WD, but only the Limited offers full-time multi-mode 4WD controlled by a mechanical center locking differential. The part-time 4WD systems offered in the SR5 and Trail afford a rear locking differential, hi-lo electronic gear selection and auto-locking hubs. Of course that's without the Toyota 4Runner's standard Eco mode engaged, which is probably the way most drivers will use the 4Runner, given the Eco mode's minimal fuel savings for all that power dampening.
The 2012 4Runner offers a surprisingly smooth ride despite its truck-based chassis, and coupled with light low-speed steering, the 4Runner makes itself into more of a car than a sport Ute. The Limited, on the other hand, offers adaptive suspension dampers standard in addition to another option for better road manners.
The base SR5 comes well-equipped with cloth upholstery, reclining rear seats, heated power-adjustable mirrors, foglights, air conditioning with rear vents, cruise control, rear parking sensors, full power accessories, power rear window, tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel, Bluetooth audio streaming/cellular connectivity, an 8-speaker sound system complete with CD player, auxiliary audio jack, iPod interfacing via USB and for 2012, XM satellite radio can be pumped through that system for 3 months on the house.
The Limited antes up with leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual climate control, remote keyless entry, push-button start, automatic headlights, powered lumbar support, integrated rear-view camera, HD radio and Toyota's Entune system for all those top-secret missions to your favorite fishing hole.
The Toyota 4Runner can take a bit longer than expected to stop, though, with the SR5 floating 122 feet and the Trail equipped with off-road tires using 140 feet before coming to a standstill from 60 mph. Helping the 2012 4Runner achieve those figures is a broad complement of safety equipment including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and so-called Smart Stop Technology to round out what Toyota calls its Star Safety System. Every 4Runner fetches rear parking sensors, but only the Trail and Limited get a rear-view camera by default—though it is an option for the SR5 as well. Drivers also praise the easy use of Toyota's Entune and navigation package, with high marks for the 4Runner's HD radio.