2010 Toyota 4Runner Debut

The long-serving body-on-frame SUV finally gets a much-needed replacement for the 2010 model year, and the addition of a four-cylinder model (available only in two-wheel drive) should give Toyota marketers a valuable price and mileage leader, with the latter making friends among consumers and Corporate Average Fuel Economy calculators alike. The displacement of the quad-banger isn’t disclosed, but given that its horsepower is quoted as 161 (torque figures were not listed) we assume it’s the company’s 2.4-liter powerplant. That’s a solid little motor, but it will likely have its hands full propelling the body-on-frame 4Runner, which perhaps explains why it will only be available in two-wheel drive form. The V6 model will get 268 horsepower, presumably supplied by the 3.5-liter engine seen in the Camry sedan.

The 2010 4Runner will be available in three model levels: SR5, Trail, and Limited, with the I-4 model only being available in SR5 form. Click through to the jump to see how the specifications for each trim level breaks out.

SR5 models will feature 16- or 17-inch wheels, a dozen airbags (front, side, curtain, and knee), as well as a standard backup and clearance sensor, an eight-speaker stereo with a special tailgate mode, and a telescoping steering wheel. Options will include leather, power seats, the aforementioned third row seating, a power moonroof, as well as audio upgrades, a 400-watt outlet, and Safety Connect (think: Toyota OnStar). The I-4 model will be outfitted like an SR5 V6, albeit without the option for leather seating surfaces and with the inclusion of black fender trim.

Stepping up to the Trail spec will yield consumers some useful off-roading kit, including Crawl Control, protective rock rails, Adaptive Terrain Management System (A-TMS), and a locking rear differential. Other bits include a standard moonroof, sport seats with waterproof fabric, Optitron gauges, an electrochromatic rearview mirror with backup camera, a hood scoop, and a roof rack. Trail buyers will also be able to get such connectivity niceties as a USB iPod interface, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and so on. A navigation system, Safety Connect, and the 400-watt outlet remain optional.

For those buying a Toyota 4Runner because it looks tougher (but only intend to drive it to the mall), the new 4Runner is coming to the table with a new 2.7-liter fourbanger capable of better mileage but with a meager 157 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The real fun is with the 4.0-liter V6, which pumps out 270 HP and 278 lb-ft of torque, though gets only 17/22 MPG in 4×4 mode.

Those who are buying it because it is tough, will want the Trail grade, which includes the KDSS kinetic dynamic suspension which allows for more axle travel over tough terrain by disconnecting the stabilizer bars. There’s also CRAWL, which adjusts speed to match terrain so you’re less likely to break an axle by throwing too much power out it. Finally, the Multi-Terrain Select system lets you choose the appropriate settings for each terrain, including sand or, in “Mogul” setting, extremely uneven terrain. All said, it’s a seemingly more dynamic off-road package compared to previous 4Runners. We can’t wait for the TRD off-road package.

A wide range of two-wheel-drive and part-time and full-time four-wheel-drive powertrain options are available, with the 4Runner Limited topping the off-road range with full-time four-wheel drive, a locking center differential and a three-mode console-mounted switch. To help increase off-road grip, all 4×4 models get a standard A-TRAC force distribution system, ensuring any one wheels with grip gets the power. A Crawl Control system is also standard on Trail grade models, which helps keep vehicle speed low for navigating particularly tricky or steep terrain.

Exterior styling is another major change for the 2010 Toyota 4Runner, with a new wider, more rugged fender and bumper design accenting new headlights and taillights that improve nighttime visibility. Seventeen-inch aluminum alloy wheels are standard on SR5 and Trail models, with 20-inch wheels standard on the Limited, with all models getting a full-size spare.

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