Toyota 4Runner

Tough and ready to tackle off-roading adventures, the 4Runner falls short of most modern SUVs. Its rough-sounding 4.0-liter V6 is powerful and reasonably fuel-efficient. But the ride is unsettled, and handling is clumsy. The body leans noticeably while cornering, and the bobbing and bouncing ride chips away at driver confidence. A high step-in and low ceiling compromise access and driving position. Ground clearance is generous, and underbody skid plates are standard. The part-time 4WD system includes a low range for tough off-road duty; Limited trims get a full-time 4WD system. Controls are simple, with big buttons and knobs, but the radio touch screen is relatively small. A third-row seat is optional, and the power-retractable rear window is handy. Advanced safety gear such as forward collision warning is unavailable.

By 2010, almost every mid-sized SUV had moved to a car-based design, but the Toyota 4Runner remained one of the last full-framed, truck-based SUV holdouts on the market. That makes it especially suited to off-roading. Otherwise, the 2010 redesign felt like a step backwards from the previous refined generation. The unsettled ride, mediocre handling, cheap interior, high-step-in, and low ceiling left us unimpressed. Limited trim versions have a sports suspension with somewhat better control, but a stiffer ride. The 4.0-liter V6 engine is powerful, but roars when accelerating. Fuel economy of 18 mpg overall is decent for this brick-shaped SUV. Controls are simple, with big buttons and knobs, but the touchscreen is relatively small. A tight third-row seat is optional. Truck-based SUVs are generally known for their towing ability, but the 4Runner's rating isn't appreciably higher than some better-driving, car-based competitors.

Like traditional SUVs, the 4Runner is based on a full truck-based frame and is especially suited for serious off-roading. It doesn't provide the nimble, carlike handling of car-based SUVs, but among old-school SUVs, the 4Runner was better than most peers. This generation was surprisingly refined, with a reasonably comfortable ride and a very quiet cabin. Lively and responsive, the smooth 4.0-liter V6 returns only 16 mpg overall. A silky smooth 4.7-liter V8 is also available. Stability control is standard. Thanks to near-bulletproof durability and a subsequent 2010 redesign that cheapened the car, this generation is highly sought on the used market, keeping prices high.

Based on Toyota's compact pickup, the 4Runner is a traditional truck-based SUV. In pre-'96 models, neither the four-cylinder nor the V6 engine is very strong. The rear seat and cargo area are tight. A 1996 redesign significantly improved this model's ride, powertrain, and interior packaging. A longer wheelbase and lower floor provide more cargo space and rear leg room. A low seat and high floor makes access a chore and the driving position awkward. We prefer the lively 3.4-liter V6 to the 2.7-liter Four. The V6 and stability control became standard on all models in 2001.