2005 Toyota 4Runner: Road Test
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2005 Toyota 4Runner ▼
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- MSRP: $27,795 -$37,795
- Invoice: $24,818 -$33,748
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Our road test for the 2005 Toyota 4Runner includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Toyota 4Runner from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Toyota 4Runner, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Toyota 4Runner help you decide if a 2005 Toyota 4Runner is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 4.9 |
No opportunity yet to test '05 V6 4Runner, but 2004 version--with 4-speed automatic transmission--was more than adequate for most needs. V8 has surplus of ready power, abetted by smooth, responsive 5-speed automatic. Kudos for standard traction-control and hill-ascent features. Towing capacity is 5000 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.9 |
Test AWD V8 Sport averaged 17.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. No opportunity to measure with '05 V6. Toyota recommends 91-octane fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.1 |
Not as smooth as car-based SUVs like Toyota's own Highlander. Copes well with small bumps, but rough surfaces cause bounce and "aftershock" jiggle typical of truck-based SUVs. Sport suspension only a tad stiffer. Rear load-leveling setup doesn't affect comfort.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.8 |
Considerable heft, tall stance contribute to noticeable body lean in turns, some wander in gusty crosswinds. Never feels nimble, but Sport suspension helps reduce body lean, bobbing motions. Nicely weighted steering. Brakes feel strong, easy to modulate. Antiskid system enhances control.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
Among the quieter SUVs. Wind rush, tire roar evident at highway speeds, but neither is severe. Sunroof's unique angle-adjusting deflector cuts buffeting. Both engines quiet in normal operation. V8 emits a muted whine under full throttle; V6 only slightly louder.
CONTROLS
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Deeply recessed gauges can be tough to read. Controls conveniently arrayed, work with typical Toyota slickness, but markings may be too small for some eyes. Standard automatic climate system simple, versatile. All trim levels feature nicely appointed interiors. No opportunity yet to test touch-screen navigation system, which incorporates some radio functions.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.7 |
Seats comfortable, though relatively low to floor. Driving position easily tailored with available tilt/telescope steering wheel, height-adjustable seat, power lumbar adjustment. Plenty of cupholders, small-items storage. Generously sized side mirrors contribute to fine visibility to all quarters, and models without upgraded audio get novel wide-angle mirrors inside rear roof pillars that expose some blind spots when backing up. Running boards standard on all models for '05; helps offset lofty step-in height, but reduces off-road clearance.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Nicely contoured seat, but low mounting means adults sit knees-up. Head room spacious, but poor toe space unless front seat cushions are elevated. Three across a squeeze. Clever bag holder folds from rear of front console. Entry/exit hampered by tall step-in. No opportunity yet to test with 3rd-row seating.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
Split rear seat folds without removing headrests. Cargo area has handy tie-downs, nets, cubbies. Useful double-deck cargo shelf folds from floor; it's standard or available depending on model. Liftgate has convenient power window instead of flip-up glass.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 8 | 5.6 |
Some like-priced rivals offer a smoother ride and sharper on-road handling, but the truck-tough 4Runner is hard to beat for powertrain polish, off-road ability, and overall refinement. Few direct competitors match its array of available safety features and traction enhancers. Add all that to Toyota's reputation for reliability and high resale value, and 4Runner earns Recommended status.
Total Score
| 2WD SR5 V6 | 4WD SR5 V6 | AWD Sport V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 61 | 62 | 55.1 |
Total Score: 61
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