2009 Toyota 4Runner

NEW FOR 2009:

- No changes

For 2009, the Toyota 4Runner is unchanged.

Based on the Prado, a Land Cruiser model not sold in North America, the 4Runner is a body-on-frame truck that comes with a 4.0-litre V6 or 4.7-litre V8, both mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The V6 uses a part-time four-wheel drive system, while the V8 comes with full-time 4WD with locking centre differential and two-speed transfer case. Model choices are the SR5 V6, Limited V6 and Limited V8.

Features on the SR5 include 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, manual driver's seat with power lumbar support, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, power locks with keyless entry, power windows with driver's side auto up/down, tonneau cover, tilt wheel, floor mats, cruise control, front tow hook, power mirrors, privacy glass, running boards, front and rear splash guards, rear bumper protector, trailer hitch, variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, and fog lamps.

The Limited models add 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, premium six-CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, heated leather seats with eight-way power driver's adjustment, key lockout protection, auto-dimming rearview mirror, double-decker cargo floor, leather-wrapped tilt and telescopic wheel, garage door opener, 115-volt outlet, anti-theft system, heated mirrors, power sunroof, illuminated running boards and light control system.

An available Sport package for the SR5 adds telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels with mud-and-snow white-letter tires, full-size spare, larger front brake discs, six-CD stereo with wheel-mounted controls, two-tone premium cloth power driver and passenger seats, garage door opener, power sunroof, coloured mirrors, front skid plate, hood scoop, silver-painted roof rack, heated mirrors, double-decker cargo floor, anti-theft system and light control system.

Seriously capable, the 4Runner offers a relatively smooth ride and good handling, while drawing on the Land Cruiser's almost legendary ability to go wherever one needs to be. It's a good choice for the all-around needs of those who stay both on and off the beaten path.