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By Jim FlammangCars.com
November 5, 2003
A redesigned version of the midsize Toyota 4Runner with a newly available V-8 engine went on sale in 2003. A V-6 was the only engine choice in the prior generation. Toyota sought to make the truck-based 4Runner larger and roomier so it would yield a more comfortable highway ride, obtain greater fuel efficiency and maintain offroad ability. A third-row seat for the Limited and SR5 editions becomes optional in the 2004 model year. A backup video camera is newly available on 4Runners equipped with a navigation system. Roll-sensing side curtain-type airbags include a cutoff switch. Toyota’s Vehicle Skid Control electronic stability system is standard. When equipped with four-wheel drive, the 4Runner features Downhill Assist Control that restricts speed when going down a steep grade. Hill-Start Assist Control keeps the 4Runner from rolling excessively on an upgrade. Customers will find three versions at dealerships: SR5, Sport and Limited. Exterior Built on a 109.8-inch wheelbase, the 4Runner measures 189 inches long overall. Body-on-frame construction uses full-length boxed-section frame rails. The rear liftgate contains a standard power window and a power opening/closing feature. A speed-sensitive sunroof wind deflector is installed. Standard SR5 equipment includes 16-inch tires, multireflector headlights and taillights, and an integrated towing hitch. The Sport features a hood scoop, a diagonal-linked sport-enhanced suspension and 17-inch tires. The Limited has 17-inch tires and silver-painted running boards, bumper accents and roof rails. Interior Without the newly available third-row seat, the 4Runner seats five people on front buckets and a three-place, fold-down, 60/40-split rear bench. Cargo capacity is 75.1 cubic feet. Leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats are standard in the Limited. Cargo-area backup mirrors mounted in the rear pillars of models with the base-grade audio system allow the driver to see oncoming vehicles when backing out of a parking stall. Under the Hood Toyota’s 4.7-liter i-Force V-8 engine sends 235 horsepower and 320 pounds-feet of torque to a five-speed-automatic transmission. A 4.0-liter V-6 that produces 245 hp works with a four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available. Models with the V-6 engine and four-wheel drive include a differential lock switch. The 4Runner features a cranking hold system; after the driver holds the key in the Start position for two-tenths of a second, the engine keeps cranking even after the key is released. Safety Antilock brakes are standard. Side curtain-type airbags and seat-mounted side-impact airbags are optional in all models. Driving Impressions Performance is a big plus with the 4Runner’s quiet V-8 engine. A tap on the gas pedal from a standstill sends this sport utility vehicle practically lunging ahead with eager passion. Acceleration while passing and merging is wholly confident. The 4Runner steers easily and with a reasonably good feel, which is a cut above the truck-based SUV norm. Its handling is also above average, and the 4Runner produces comfortable sensations on the road. For this type of vehicle, the ride is pleasantly soft — not quite cushiony, but the suspension absorbs many bumps. The Sport model feels a bit tauter and its ride quality is a tad sniffer. Find a USED 2004 4Runner for SaleFind used car inventory in your area.
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