Toyota 4Runner 2011 Review

The Toyota 4Runner 2011 is a midsize SUV suited for off-road terrain that retains its body-on-frame construction. Drivers say that its V6 engine is adequate and its large cargo capacity makes it even more suitable for the off-road experience with plenty of luggage. However, the Toyota 4Runner 2011 has a cramped third row and lacks a V8 engine. This makes other competitors such as the Jeep Commander and the Nissan Pathfinder more suitable for heavy duty towing.

The three available trim levels for the Toyota 4Runner 2011 include the SR5, Trail and the Limited trims. The  base SR5 (two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive) comes equipped with skid plates, foglights, seventeen-inch aluminum wheels, heated outside mirrors, full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning , tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power rear window,8-speaker CD and MP3 sound system, auxiliary audio jack and a trip computer.

The four-wheel drive Trail model adds black fender flares, hood scoop, rocker panels Crawl Control that regulates throttle and breaks while climbing or descending hills, locking rear differential, tinted head/taillights, sunroof, off-road tailored tires, back-up camera, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, water-resistant upholstery, reclining cargo deck, satellite radio, USB/iPod interface, Bluetooth connectivity upgraded audio system and power front seats.

The Limited model all-wheel drive standard features includes keyless ignition, twenty-inch aluminum wheels, automatic dual-zone climate control, adaptive suspension dampers, automatic headlights, leather decorated steering wheel, heated front seats, fifteen-speaker JBL sound system, leather upholstery, power lumbar adjustment for driver seat and a 6-disc CD player.

Standard features in the Trail and Limited models are offered in the SR5 trim as options. Additional optional features include a navigation system, third row seat and a Kinetic dynamic suspension system (KDSS) off-road suspension (only in the Trail trim).

The Toyota 4Runner 2011 comes equipped with a 270 horsepower 4-liter V6 that generates 278 lb-ft of torque. This is paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity for a properly equipped 4Runner is estimated to about 5,000 pounds.

According to EPA, fuel efficiency for Toyota 4Runner two-wheel drive is estimated at 17 miles per gallon in the city, 23 miles per gallon on the highway and combined fuel efficiency of 19 miles per gallon. Fuel efficiency for the 4WD is the same as that for the two-wheel drive except for the highway which is less by one.

The 4Runner 2011 has a seating capacity of five passengers. This can be increased to seven with the third row seats in use. The third row seat cannot comfortable accommodate adults.

The Toyota 4Runner 2011 can provide 90 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third row seats folded down.

Standard safety features for the 4Runner 2011include; traction control, stability control, front head restraints, antilock disc brakes, airbags (front seat airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and roll-sensing airbags.

The 4Runnerreceived five stars for the front driver and passenger collision test and five stars for the side crash test.

The average price for a Toyota 4Runner 2011 may range between $29,547 and $39,999.