2005 Toyota 4Runner Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

More V8 power and a new V6 transmission highlight 2005 for Toyota's truck-type midsize SUV. 4Runner comes in SR5, Sport, and Limited models, now with exterior styling touches specific to each. All offer a V6 or V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission; the V6 had used a 4-speed automatic. The V8 has 270 hp, an increase of 35. Rear-wheel drive is standard. The V8 can be ordered with all-wheel drive, the V6 with 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement. Both systems have low-range gearing and also come with Downhill Assist Control designed to limit speed down steep slopes. Hill ascent control--to avoid sliding backward--is standard. So are antiskid/traction control and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags are available. The curtain airbags feature rollover deployment. SR5s come on 16-inch wheels; the others have 17s. A firmer suspension is standard on Sports, optional for Limiteds. Rear load-leveling suspension is available for V8 Limiteds. Available on SR5 and Limited is 3rd-row seating for 7-passenger capacity vs. five. Rear DVD entertainment is available for SR5s and Sports. Limiteds offer an optional navigation system with TV camera that displays a rear view on the dashboard screen when backing up. A sunroof is optional on all models for '05; it had been standard on the Limited. Toyota's Lexus division sells a dressed-up V8 AWD 4Runner as the GX 470.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.

News

The current 4Runner is only two model years young. Not surprisingly, sources see no big changes in the near future.

2005 Toyota 4Runner Road Test

Pros	Cons

Cargo room	Entry/exit

Instruments/controls	Fuel economy

Visibility

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

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

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		37
Average Score		55
High Score		67

2005 Toyota 4Runner Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 06/02/2005

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2WD SR5 V6 4-door wagon	$27,795	$24,818	$565

2WD SR5 V8 4-door wagon	$29,245	$26,114	$565

4WD SR5 V6 4-door wagon	$30,070	$26,851	$565

AWD SR5 V8 4-door wagon	$31,520	$28,147	$565

2WD Sport V6 4-door wagon	$29,065	$25,886	$565

2WD Sport V8 4-door wagon	$30,515	$27,182	$565

4WD Sport V6 4-door wagon	$31,340	$27,918	$565

AWD Sport V8 4-door wagon	$32,790	$29,212	$565

2WD Limited V6 4-door wagon	$34,070	$30,423	$565

2WD Limited V8 4-door wagon	$35,520	$31,719	$565

4WD Limited V6 4-door wagon	$36,345	$32,454	$565

AWD Limited V8 4-door wagon	$37,795	$33,748	$565

Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. The dealer invoice and destination charge may be higher in areas served by independent distributors.

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

SR5

Powertrain

4.0-liter V6 or 4.7-liter V8 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, traction control, limited-slip differential.

Safety

Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, hill ascent control, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning w/automatic climate control, interior air filter, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, driver-seat height and power lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows including tailgate window, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, variable-intermittent wipers, visor mirrors, map lights, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper, cargo cover, power liftgate locking, automatic-off headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, running boards, rear privacy glass, fog lights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Trailer hitch, skid plates, full-size spare tire, 265/70R16 tires, alloy wheels, 4WD/AWD adds: 4-wheel drive/all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, hill descent control.

Sport adds to SR5:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, heated power mirrors.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Roof rack.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Sport suspension, 265/65R17 white-letter tires, 4WD/AWD adds: 4-wheel drive/all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, hill descent control.

Limited adds to Sport:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat, rear radio controls, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage-door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic headlights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Deletes: sport suspension.

265/65R17 tires, 4WD/AWD adds: 4-wheel drive/all-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case, hill descent control.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Preferred Accessory Pkg.
Limited, SR5, Sport	$331	$220
First-aid kit, emergency-assistance kit, cargo mat, floormats.

Safety
Front side airbags and curtain side airbags
SR5, Sport V6	$680	$583
Sport V8, Limited	$650	$559
SR5, Sport include illuminated visor mirrors.

Daytime running lights
Limited, SR5, Sport	$40	$32


Comfort and Convenience Features
Power sunroof
Limited, SR5, Sport	$900	$720


Rear-seat DVD entertainment system
SR5, Sport	$1,997	$1,672
Includes rear radio controls. NA w/JBL sound system, JBL AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Navigation system
Limited	$2,300	$1,917
Includes rearview camera, JBL sound system.

JBL sound system
SR5, Sport	$625	$476
Limited	$475	$356
Includes rear radio controls. SR5 requires leather-wrapped steering wheel.

JBL AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
Limited	$725	$544
SR5, Sport	$875	$664
Includes rear radio controls. SR5 requires leather-wrapped steering wheel. NA w/navigation system.

Leather-wrapped steering wheel
SR5	$220	$176
Includes radio controls.

3rd-row split folding seat
SR5	$735	$588
Limited	$1,195	$956
NA w/power sunroof, JBL sound system, rear air suspension.

AC power point
SR5, Sport	$100	$80
Std. Limited.

Automatic day/night rearview mirror
SR5, Sport	$150	$120


Universal garage-door opener
SR5, Sport	$125	$100


Double-decker cargo system
SR5, Sport	$125	$100
Includes cargo net and mat. NA w/3rd-row seat. Std. Limited.

Appearance and Miscellaneous
Roof rack
SR5	$220	$176


Theft-deterrent system
SR5, Sport	$359	$239


Rear spoiler
Limited, SR5, Sport	$200	$160


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Sport suspension
Limited	$450	$360


Rear load-leveling air suspension
Limited V8	$950	$760
Requires sport suspension. NA w/3rd-row split folding seat.

265/65R17 tires
SR5	$100	$80

2005 Toyota 4Runner Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Toyota 4Runner 4-door wagon

Wheelbase, in.	109.8

Overall Length, in.	189.0

Overall Width, in.	73.8

Overall Height, in.	68.5

Curb Weight, lbs.	4300

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	75.1

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	23.0

Seating Capacity	7

Front Head Room, in.	39.7

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.8

Rear Head Room, in.	39.1

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	34.6

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	dohc V6	dohc V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	4.0 /241	4.7 /285

Horsepower @ rpm.	245 @ 5200	270 @ 5400

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	282 @ 3800	330 @ 3400

Availability	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

5-speed automatic	17/21	15/19

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Toyota 4Runner 4-door wagon

Front Impact, Driver	4

Front Impact, Passenger	4

Rollover Resistance	3

Side Impact, Driver	5

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	5/60,000	8/100,000 on Prius and Highlander hybrid-related components. In CA, hybrid components are covered by a 10/150,000 warranty.

Bumper-to-bumper	3/36,000	--

Corrosion	5/unlimited	--

Free roadside assistance	None/--	3/36,000 on Prius.

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: Japan

Drivewheels: all-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

< 2005 Toyota 4Runner Photos

Also in the 2005 Toyota 4Runner Review:

Toyota 4Runner

Toyota 4Runner Road Test

Toyota 4Runner Prices & Equipment

Toyota 4Runner Specs & Safety

Toyota 4Runner Photos

Toyota 4Runner Full Review

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