2010 Toyota 4Runner By:  ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.Net Recently, Judy and I had a Toyota for our test drive.  Due to the widespread and significant recalls recently, many consumers are looking at other manufacturers and are not very trustworthy of the Toyota nameplates.  Actually, many of our acquaintances during our week’s test drive asked us, “Do you feel safe driving that vehicle?”  The simple answer is “Yes.”  All brands have had some problems and some recalls.  This Totota recall is a little more extensive and widespread than others, but Toyota, Lexus, and Scion continue to make some exceptionally great vehicles and I am not afraid to drive them.

Our test drive was a Toyota 4Runner – and this model was not among those with the accelerator or floor mat problem.  The 4Runner is 25 years old and the 2010 edition is the 5th generation of this outstanding 4x4 SUV.  It is a mid-size, body-on-a-frame, that can climb rocks in the mountains as easily as hauling children to their scouting events and soccer matches.  The 2010 edition might look similar to last year’s model, but there are a number of significant changes.

There are several trim levels for the 4Runner, including a new Trail model.  Our test model was the base SR5, 4x4, with the new V6 engine.  Previously, the 4Runner featured a powerful V8, which has now been replaced with this highly capable 4.0 liter, 270 horsepower, V6.  Possibly, the V6 has a little less towing capacity, but overall, I had no problems. I have heard someone refer to the 4.0 literV6 as being somewhat bland and that’s probably due to a lack of loud exhaust or other engine noise.  The 4Runner can zip down the highway, deceptively gaining speed without the accompanying sounds usually associated with a large off-roading SUV. 

The 4Runner’s 4.0 V6 was mated with a five speed automatic transmission that was generally smooth except at the lower gears.  There was a slight jerkiness when re-accelerating, such as coming out of a school zone.  Otherwise, the transmission was fine.  A feature that I really liked was the Eco mode.  This is a green light, illustrated by a tiny leaf outline on the dash display.  If you keep the revs down, the light shows up, informing the driver of better fuel economy.  It was no problem to cruise down the highway at maximum speeds and still maintain the Eco effect.  My overall mileage average for the week was just slightly under 21 mpg.  This is a fairly large and bulky vehicle with a four wheel drive system and is EPA rated at just 17 city and 22 highway.

The Toyota 4Runner uses the same platform as the popular FJ Cruiser.  The 2010 model is slightly longer, wider, and taller than the 2009.  The front grill is edgy in appearance and the fender flares are more pronounced.  The vehicle is, simply stated, attractive.  Our test model was called “Blizzard Pearl”, which was a creamy white with a very distinctive luminescent look.

The interior is certainly not luxury or premium, but far from stripped down.  It is utilitarian and the controls are almost chunky.  The gauges, switches, dials, and display are arranged symmetrically and logically.  There are several small holding spots between the front seats for keys, cell phones, and other small items, as well as three cup holders conveniently available. Judy and I made a brief trip to Longview to see some of our newest grandchildren.  The console was ideal for us with its storage and arrangement of levers and such. There was a third row seat that stowed flat in the rear.  It is useful for short runs with youngsters but not large enough for longer trips and adults.  The rear storage area was about normal for a large SUV.  The tailgate lifted upwards with minimal effort and the bed was about the right height for loading and unloading items Judy found at some flea market stops..

Our test model had a base MSRP of $30,915, but several packages were added.  These included an upgraded sound system, backup camera, Convenience group with powered moonroof and sunshade, leather seats, the third row seating, and more.  Bottom sticker price was $37,869, which is a very competitive price for this size SUV equipped for extreme off-roading.  Great deals are available during this time of market conditions for the Toyota brand.

Bottom line – The Toyota 4Runner is a proven off-road vehicle that is equally at home on the highway, on the trail, or used on a day-to-day basis.  It was not part of the re-call problem and has had significant changes to the 2010 model.  Check it out yourself at a Toyota dealership.  The 4Runner might just be what you have been looking for.