Toyota 4Runner

When it comes to off-road rigs, we're not quick to embrace new trends. "If ain't broke, don't fix it" is our mantra, since durability and dependability are far more important than fads and fashion. Toyota's 4Runner is a prime example of our thinking along these lines.
The first-generation 4Runner, which was basically a two-door mini-truck with a removable hardtop, rolled out in 1984. Over time, the 4Runner got bigger, plusher and more powerful (and pricier, too), but it's still built using old-school, body-on-frame construction. 

The current midsize Toyota 4Runner SUV, introduced for 2003, comes in three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition and Limited. Each trim offers two engine options that more than make up for the lack of power in its predecessor models.  
A base 4.0-liter V6 engine puts out 236 horsepower and 266 lb/ft of torque. And the 4.7-liter V8 churns out 260 hp and a robust 306 lb/ft of torque. Maximum towing capacity is 5000 lbs with the V6 and 7300 lbs with V8. A five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard across all trims, and four-wheel drive is optional.

 

The Sport Edition comes with a roof rack, foglights, and side steps (the latter proved to be a bit too low when it tackled a few small boulders, though). In addition, to these appearance items, it has bigger front brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels and Toyota's stiffer X-REAS suspension system, which reduces body roll in turns. The Limited is the top-of-the-line model, adding the usual premium features, such as leather seating, dual climate control and a CD changer.
All trims get the latest electronic gadgetry, such as Downhill Assist Control that automatically modulates the brakes and throttle for smooth descents, and Hill-Start Assist Control. We checked out both of these features on both sides of a precipice, and they worked as claimed. However, during descent the automatic braking function made a lot of noise, which sounded like we were hitting rocks.
As for on-road performance, the Toyota 4Runner is refreshingly responsive for a truck-based SUV, with a taut, athletic feel. While some SUV buyers might prefer a more car-like ride, we found the 4Runner to have pleasing manners, both on and off the asphalt, despite the traditional chassis construction. The only drawback of the 4Runner for daily driving is its comparatively smaller interior than the current spate of crossovers and other midsize SUVs.  
Other changes for 2008 include standard side air bags, a switch to disable the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), slightly modified front grille design, refinements in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and some changes in the seatbelt warning system and brake system control.
In sum, while we look forward to upcoming revisions in this tried-and-true model, we'd have a hard time figuring out what needs changing in the 4Runner. As we noted at the outset, this truck ain't broke.