Toyota calls the 2014 4Runner a redesign however it is mostly cosmetic changes as opposed to a full re-engineering of the entire vehicle. The revolutionary SUV arrives which has a bold facelift certain to polarize 4Runner traditionalists and casual observers alike. An expanded grille is placed atop a pronounced bumper chin and flanked by vertical air intakes with inset foglights. Narrower headlights replace halogen lamps with projector beams and LED accents. Nobody will likely be won over with the new 4Runner's floppy jowls and bulldog smile, but Toyota clearly achieved the "forceful" look it intended.
Bold action didn't extend beneath the hood, however. While the 4Runner carries over its truckish body-on-frame construction, additionally , it brings over its 4.0-liter V6 engine, with a rating of 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic drive also carries over. The 4Runner offers rear-wheel drive standard on SR5 and Trail trim levels (four-wheel drive is optional) as the top-trim Limited gets full-time four-wheel drive. All 4Runners can tow around 5,000 pounds.
Toyota hasn't released EPA fuel economy estimates, however the same powertrain in the present 4Runner pre-loaded with four-wheel drive returns 19 mpg combined.
SR5 models accompany 17-inch wheels, a luggage rack, new soft-touch door trim, a leather-wrapped tyre plus a rearview camera. Trail models are similarly equipped, but offer increased off-road ability with the optional suspension system that could disconnect the stabilizer bars for improved agility on difficult terrain. Crawl control comes standard and gets control throttle and braking duties on tough off-road sections, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering. All 4Runners offer hill start assist and hill descent control.
Limited models have more upscale with 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, automatic dual-zone heating and cooling, and heated, ventilated and power-adjustable front seats. Optional third-row seating for SR5 and Limited models accommodates seven passengers.
The revolutionary 4Runner also packs Toyota's multimedia offerings, which include Entune smartphone integration. The SR5 bundles Entune through an eight-speaker speakers, satellite radio, Bluetooth connection and streaming audio and iPod connectivity. The Limited adds limited 15-speaker JBL speakers with a navigation system and 7-inch display.
The 2014 Toyota 4Runner continues on sale in late summer. Return for just a full review of the new 4Runner, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it welcomes in.
Download here 2014 Toyota 4Runner Owners Manual