Acceleration

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
5	5	6	5.5

The V6 is more than adequate for most needs, while the V8 has ample, ready power. Both are abetted by a smooth, responsive transmission.

Fuel Economy

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
4	4	3	3.6

In Consumer Guide testing, an AWD V8 Sport Edition averaged 17.3 mpg in mostly highway driving. No opportunity to measure with the V6. All 4Runners use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
5	5	5	5.5

Copes well with small bumps, but rough surfaces cause bounce and aftershock jiggle typical of traditional truck-type SUVs. The sport suspension is only a tad stiffer. The available load-leveling setup doesn't affect comfort.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
4	4	4	4.4

Heavy and tall, so cornering lean is marked. Sport's suspension trims it a bit, but all models tend to bob and weave on imperfect pavement. The steering is nicely weighted. Strong brakes are easy to modulate.

Quietness

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
6	6	6	5.4

Among the quieter SUVs of this type. Wind rush and tire roar evident at highway speeds, but neither is severe. Both engines are quiet in normal operation. The V8 emits a muted whine under full throttle; V6 is scarcely louder.

Controls

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
6	6	6	6.3

The gauges are deeply recessed and can be tough to read. Convenient controls work with precision, but their markings may be too small for some eyes.

Details

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
6	6	6	5.4

4Runner interiors are nicely appointed with a good mix of textured plastics and soft-touch surfaces.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
7	7	7	7.1

The seats are comfortable but fairly low to the floor. Large door mirrors contribute to fine all-around visibility. Models without upgraded audio get novel wide-angle mirrors inside the rear roof pillars that expose some blind spots when backing up. Standard running boards partly offset the lofty step-in height, but reduce ground clearance off-road.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
6	6	6	6.1

The 2nd-row bench is nicely contoured but low, allowing good headroom but forcing adults to sit knees-up. It's a squeeze for three. Foot space is poor without the front seats well elevated. A handy bag holder folds from the rear of the console. As in front, tall step-in hampers entry and exit. Unable yet to test with 3rd-row seating.

Cargo Room

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
9	9	9	8.6

The split rear seat folds without removing the headrests. Cargo area has handy tie-downs, nets, and cubbies. A useful double-deck cargo shelf folds from the floor; it's standard or available depending on model. The liftgate includes a power-down window instead of flip-up glass.

Value within Class

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
5	7	6	5.8

Some rivals offer a smoother ride and sharper on-road handling, but 4Runner is tough to beat for refinement, off-road ability, and overall execution. Toyota charges premium prices for this SUV, but in exchange it delivers a satisfying array of available safety features, traction enhancers, and a reputation for reliability and high resale value.

Total Score

2WD SR5, V6	4WD SR5, V6	AWD Sport Edition, V8	Class Average
63	65	64	63.7

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		53
Average Score		63
High Score		76