As with all Toyotas, the new 4Runner thoughtfully accommodates its passengers,
rather than requiring the passengers to make allowances for the vehicle,
something that wasn't quite true of the previous generation. Getting in
and out is generally easier, thanks to the recent redesign, and there's
more room behind the front seats. Although not the absolute roomiest in
its class, the 4Runner offers enough space for five adults. The rear seat
is split 50/50, for the expected versatility of varying passenger and cargo
loads. As a result of ground clearance necessary to deal with off-road
use, the vehicle sits somewhat higher than some of the competition. This
means that shorter people may find it less convenient, to get in and out.
All controls are where you expect and need them and operate logically
and easily, from your first grab of the door handle to turning on the wipers
or using a cupholder. There's nothing goofy here, no awkward result of
some stylist's whim. Just simple, appreciated correctness, which adds up
to a high degree of operating ease.
The instrument panel is arranged for sensible visibility and operation
of all control functions. And there are sufficient map pockets, glove boxes,
cubby holes and cupholders for any reasonable amount of on-the-road stuff.
All owners will appreciate a couple of features in the rear. First,
the spare tire is mounted underneath, so it doesn't interfere with cargo
access, and doesn't intrude on cargo space. Second, access to the rear
is through a hatch with a separate opening window. A hatch is superior
to a door-style tailgate because it opens up and allows you to stand closer
to the cargo area when you're loading stuff. And, if you want to toss small
items in the back, just lower the window--it's power-operated in all models.
For all-around convenience, the 4Runner is really at the top of the mid-size
sport utility list.
The 4Runner has one of the best chassis and suspension arrangements
in its class. While some mid-size sport utilities have front suspensions
of struts or even live axles, the 4Runner has an independent suspension
with upper and lower control arms and coil springs. The rear axle is
mounted with a multi-link arrangement and coil springs instead of the more
common, and less sophisticated, leaf springs.
The result is a combination of ride comfort and handling ease that's
exceptionally good for a vehicle of such outstanding off-road and rough-road
capabilities. It also has the precise feel of rack-and-pinion steering
and a tidy turning circle of 37.4 feet.
All this means that living with, and driving, the 4Runner, day-in and
day-out, is easy and free of hassles. It doesn't drive exactly like a car,
of course, but it's no truck, either. It rides nice, it handles nice, the
engine runs great, it's nimble in tight quarters (like the dreaded shopping
mall parking lot), and it basically does all the things you'd like it to
do in the ways you'd like it to do them.