2005 Toyota 4Runner Review (continued)
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Summary

The 2005 Toyota 4Runner is a highly capable trail vehicle. It will get you over the rocks and through the muck, but it won't make you regret its durable construction when you're cruising the Interstate. It's smooth and quiet on the road and there's plenty of room for family and friends. The V6 is a great choice, but the V8 delivers excellent response. If you want serious recreational capability with Toyota quality, and the company's reputation for durability and reliability, the 4Runner is an excellent choice. Nonetheless, if you rarely venture onto unimproved trails, then you'll find the Toyota Highlander and other unibody, independently suspended SUVs smoother and more comfortable.

New Car Test Drive editor Mitch McCullough reports from Southern California.

(Source: New Cars Test Drive)

Model Line Overview

Model Lineup:	Toyota 4Runner SR5 ($27,495); Sport Edition ($28,765); Limited ($35,220)
Engines:	4.7-liter dohc V8 w VVT-i
Transmissions:	5-speed automatic
Saftey Equipment (standard):	dual-stage front airbags, three-point seat belts in with pretensioners and force limiters at all positions, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist; Vehicle Skid Control, traction control
Saftey Equipment (optional):	driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags, overhead curtain-style head protection airbags front and rear w rollover sensor and cut-off switch
Basic Warranty:	3 years/36,000 miles
Assembled In:	Japan

Specifications As Tested

Model Tested (MSRP):	Toyota 4Runner Limited 4x4 V8 ($37,495)
Standard Equipment:	dual-zone automatic climate control w rear ventilation and air filtration; leather-trimmed interior w 8-way heated power adjustable driver's seat w power lumbar, heated 4-way power adjustable front passenger's seat; leather-wrapped steering wheel w integrated cruise control and audio controls; anti-theft system; rear-seat audio w remote control and wireless headphone capability, HomeLink garage door opener, auto-dimming mirror w compass, Silver and Granite interior trim, sliding sun visors w illuminated vanity mirrors, auto on/off headlamps, double-decker cargo system w cargo net, 115-volt AC power outlet, power door locks and windows with driver auto up/down, power rear window, remote keyless entry, electronic rear hatch locking system, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, overhead console with map lights and sunglass holder, two 12-volt power outlets, cargo cover, 60/40 split folding rear seats, six-speaker stereo with CD and cassette, skid plates, integrated towing hitch
Options As Tested (MSRP):	Side and Curtain Airbags ($650) includes seat-mounted side-impact airbags for torso protection of driver and front passenger, side curtain airbags for head protection for first- and second-row outboard passengers w roll sensor and cutoff switch; daytime running lights ($40); power tilt/slide moonroof w sunshade ($900); rear spoiler w CHMSL ($200); JBL AM/FM/CD w 8 speakers and navigation system w back-up camera ($2,300); X-REAS Sport suspension ($450); rear air suspension ($950); accessory package ($331) includes carpeted floor mats, cargo mat, first aid kit, emergency assistance kit, cargo net
Destination Charge:	565
Gas Guzzler Tax:
Price As Tested (MSRP):	43881
Layout:	four-wheel drive
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):	270 @ 5400
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):	330 @ 3400
Transmission:	5-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:	16/19
Wheelbase:	109.8
Length/width/height:	189.0/73.8/68.9
Track, f/r:	62.0/62.0
Turning circle:	36.7
Seating capacity:	7
Head/hip/leg room, f:	39.7/55.3/41.7
Head/hip/leg room, m:	39.1/55.3/34.7
Head/hip/leg room, r:	32.9/48.4/24.1
Cargo volume:	75.1
Payload:	1450
Towing capacity:	7000
Suspension, f:	independent
Suspension, r:	four-link rigid axle with coil springs
Ground clearance:	9.1
Curb weight:	4555
Tires:	P265/65R17 mud and snow
Brakes, f/r:	ventilated disc/ventilated disc with ABS, EBD, Brake Assist
Fuel capacity:	23.0