2001 Toyota 4Runner: Road Test

Archived Review

2001 Toyota 4Runner 

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  • MSRP: $26,355 -$37,605
  • Invoice: $23,456 -$33,468

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Our road test for the 2001 Toyota 4Runner includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Toyota 4Runner help you decide if a 2001 Toyota 4Runner is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
4 4 4.6

Weak 4 cyl won't be missed. The V6 is a strong performer, though loaded up, the heavier 4x4s lack real passing punch. 4Runner is among the older SUVs, but the new 4WD system and antiskid/traction control bring it up to date technologically. And few rivals have a smoother, more responsive powertrain.

FUEL ECONOMY

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
4 4 3.7

About par for a midsize 6-cyl SUV. Test 4WD V6 4Runners averaged 17.2 mpg with lots of highway miles and 15 mpg in mixed city/suburban travel.

RIDE QUALITY

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
4 4 3.8

Not bouncy, but not carlike either, especially the more firmly sprung 4x4s with their larger tires.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
4 4 3.7

More stable in tight turns than some rivals, though body lean and a slight tippy feel are evident. Fine steering, powerful ABS braking. Newly standard antiskid/traction system should provide an extra safety margin in foul weather.

QUIETNESS

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
4 4 3.7

Wind rush is the main offender in this tall, boxy vehicle, though V6 makes audible full-throttle induction noise.

CONTROLS

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
7 7 5.8

No-nonsense layout and function. Dual cupholders pop out from the center, but are placed so that containers block the climate controls. Interior assembled and finished with typical Toyota thoroughness, top-grade materials.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
6 6 5.9

A high stance means a lofty step-in and makes entry/exit awkward for shorter people. Head room isn't the best for tall folks despite comfortable seats set quite low to the floor.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
6 6 4.4

Above-average for an adult middle rider, but longer trips are best with two or fewer. Entry/exit again hampered by that tall step-in, plus narrow floor passages.

CARGO ROOM

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
8 8 7.5

Good even with the split-fold rear seat in use, but high load deck makes loading awkward, and the power-down tailgate window is a neat alternative to other SUVs' flip-up glass.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
6 6 4.2

This is among the older and pricier midsize SUVs, but it compensates with quality, reliability, refinement, and high resale value. New 4WD and antiskid control help it maintain Recommended status.

Total Score

SR5 4WD Limited 4WD Class Average
53 53 47.3

Total Score: 53

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
36
Average Score
47
High Score
64

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