When the first Toyota 4Runner was launched back in 1984 it was a popular vehicle based on the mechanics of the four-wheel-drive Toyota pickup truck. The 4Runner combined the versatility and go-anywhere ability of four-wheel-drive with the comfort and utility found in passenger cars. Twenty-five years, four generations and more than 1.5 million sales later, the all-new fifth-generation 4Runner is out.

The newest 4Runner is taller, wider and longer for 2010, and is available in a variety of configurations. It will be offered in three models, top-of-the-line Limited, a well-equipped SR5, plus a Trail grade for those who require maximum off-road capability.

Drivetrain configurations include rear wheel 4×2, part-time 4×4 and full-time multi-mode 4×4 with a locking center differential. All 4×4 models are equipped with a 4.0L V6 mated to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission. The 4×2 models will be equipped with either a 2.7L four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed ECT automatic or the 4.0L V6 with the five-speed ECT-i automatic. Optional third-row seats allow for up to seven-person capacity.

Available in Limited, SR5 and Trail trims, all 4Runner grades feature rugged new bumpers and wider shoulders, with newly designed head- lamp and tail-light systems, which offer a newly-minted, technical design quality and better nighttime performance. The front ends square fender flares meld with a muscular profile that links with a beefy and square rear bumper and back door.

Aluminum alloy wheels are 17-inches in diameter on SR5 and Trail grades and 20-inches on the Limited, and include a full-size spare.

In addition to its distinctive front grille, the SR5 grade also adopts overfenders and mud guards to help tackle inclement weather and off-road conditions. A roof rack comes standard for hauling equipment for outdoor activities.

The Trail grade is designed to maximize off-road performance with a superior approach and departure angles, high ground clearance, and an array of functional upgrades for the most demanding active outdoor enthusiast. It can be distinguished by a unique hood scoop, unique 17-inch wheels, black outer mirrors, front and rear bumper guards and dark smoke treatment on the head and tail lamps.

The Limited and SR5 grades add to the muscular design with special touches that provide a premium appearance. The front end includes a chrome-plated front grille insert, fog lamp bezel and front bumper molding. Front and rear overfenders and side skirts are color-keyed. Chrome plating is also found on the side molding, roof rack and rear bumper.

Turn signals on SR5 and Limited V6 grades are now incorporated into the outside mirrors, along with puddle lamps.

The 2010 4Runner is powered by a new 4.0L V6, which now generates 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. Through the use of advanced engine management that includes dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the new 4.0L engine offers the best of both worlds, adding more power while improving efficiency. For 2010, the new V6 engine produces 34 horsepower more than the prior V6, and 10 horsepower more than the optional V8 of the previous generation.
Additional mileage improvements have come from careful attention to wind flow, reducing aerodynamic drag to a Cd of 0.365. EPA-estimated mileage improves from 16 city and 21 highway to 17 city/23 highway for the 4×2, and from 16 city and 20 highway to 17 city/22 highway for 4×4 models. Both achieve an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined, an improvement of more than five percent. With the new 4.0-liter engine, maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

In addition to the upgraded V6 engine, a proven 2.7L 4-cylinder engine with VVT-i is available on the 4×2 SR5 model. The DOHC 16-valve 2.7L makes 157 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with 2.80:1 first gear and 0.753 overdrive 4th, the 2.7 delivers 18 city/23 highway mpg.

The 4Runner is available with a host of cargo and comfort options, depending on trim.