The Toyota 4Runner hugs the road and the bucket seats hug you…

The 2014 Toyota 4Runner offers more than meets the eye.

Rugged, sporty, and bold are some of the words that come to mind when describing the 2014’s looks.

The gap between Toyota and Lexus has definitely decreased over the past few years. First look at this truck and you would think it was a Lexus. The large grille opening and molded headlights looks like a big mouth bass coming up out of the water and biting down on you lure, how’s that for adventure?

In The Cab

The 4Runner has two rows of seats, with an optional third row, available on the upgrade and limited packages.

There’s an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, four-way adjustable passenger seat, 40/20/40 split second-row seats, and 40/20/40 split third-row seats which include a one-touch walk-in feature to ease access to the back.

All the knobs and dials have a rubber texture to emphasize the outdoor theme. The standard model comes with an eight-speaker, 160 watt AM/FM/CD system with an XM satellite-ready antenna, while the limited version receives a premium JBL AM/FM/CD/4 disc in dash changer that puts out 660 watts of power and includes a sub-woofer, 15 speakers, IPod connectivity and steering wheel audio controls. There is a12-volt DC power outlet located in the center console, glove box and cargo area.

The Trail edition and limited models feature a 400watt AC power outlet. An available sliding rear cargo tray holds up to 200 kg and comes in very handy when camping.

Safety First

Dual stage driver and passenger airbag, front seat mounted side airbags, roll sensing front and rear head/side curtain, driver and front passenger knee airbags and active front headrests with whiplash protection.

Power

Powering the 4runner is a 4.0 litre V6 dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i ) V6 engine that produces an impressive 270 hp and 278 lb ft of torque.

Pump Frequency

12.6L/100km city

9.2L/100km highway

Warranty Support

Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km

Powertrain: 36 months/ 100,000 km

Corrosion: perforation/ unlimited km

Roadside assistance: 36 months / 60,000 km

Roadworthy?

Whenever I have a chance to test drive a Toyota 4Runner, I always talk about its legendary off-road capabilities, especially here in BC. What I don’t always talk about is the great on-road driving capabilities.

The Toyota 4Runner hugs the road and the bucket seats hug you. It is very comfortable to drive and you feel safe driving it. The suspension and shocks give you a firm ride but not enough to give you that washboard effect.

Vision while driving is superb, with little to no blind spots. The thick steering wheel and responsive steering makes you feel like you are driving a car.

Verdict

The Toyota 4Runner could be on just about everybody’s wish list, given its on and off-road capabilities.

Sticker Price

Standard package: $37,900

Upgrade package: $41,800

Trail Edition: $44,315

Limited Package: 5- passenger $ 47,500

Limited Package: 7-passenger  $48,700

Price as tested: $51,110.20 

Contact: ian [dot] harwood [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca