DALLAS, Texas —Toyota officially took the wraps off its fifth-generation 2010 4Runner today at the Texas State Fair. Completely redesigned this year, the Toyota 4Runner gets a new look that mimics the FJ Cruiser while adding a more powerful V6 and an optional four-cylinder base engine on 4x2 models.
Although the old optional V8 is gone, a heavily revised 4.0-liter V6 now makes 270-horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder is rated at 157-hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Underneath, the 2010 4 Runner rides on an all-new body-on-frame platform, but the suspension design is still comprised of double wishbones up front and a solid axle in the back. An optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) adds adjustable swaybars while a new multi-terrain system is capable of controlling the throttle, traction control and braking for idiot-proof off-roading.
The latest 4Runner offers a roomier cabin due to a lower floor height. The entire dashboard layout has been redesigned as well with new radio and climate controls and more easily readable gauges. Third-row seating is still available along with a slide-out cargo carrier.
Inside Line says: Crossovers may be all the rage, but some people still want a real, off-road capable SUV. This 4Runner delivers, even deep in the heart of Texas.— Kelly Toepke, News Editor
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stateofmaine says:
01:14 PM, 10/10/2009
readers bear in mind that the caption reading "All the off-road magic happens in the dual-range center differential." is not true. the Limited is the ONLY 2010 4Runner equipped with the Torsen center differential (which was once standard on all grades of the 4Runner). the SR5 and Trail Edition only have a simply VF2A transfer-case.