2007 Toyota 4Runner Exterior Review [ 2008 ]
Toyota 4Runner Exterior Review
Exterior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
Auto reviewers offer mixed opinions on the 2007 4Runner's rugged exterior styling, with some commenting that certain elements are over-the-top for an SUV. The Detroit Free Press comments, "This is a fine-looking truck, masculine but not check-me-out macho."
Built on a 109.8-inch wheelbase, the 2007 4Runner measures 189.2 inches long and stands 69.3 inches tall. U.S. News' Rick Newman describes the exterior as a "leaner, boxier look. Think gymnast instead of bodybuilder." But a minority of reviewers feels that some of the 4Runner's exterior details don't belong on an SUV. "Details such as a spoiler and a hood scoop are a bit much," comments Automobile Magazine.
Reviewers also commented on some of the 4Runner's unique exterior features, such as the windshield, side windows and side mirrors, which are made of hydrophilic glass "and repel water like a waxed car or a window that has been treated with Rain-X," raves New Car Test Drive. Reviewers had mixed opinions about the SUV's running boards, which are meant to help passengers step up into the car. "I was thankful the test 2003 4Runner had running boards," says an MSN reviewer. "They helped me, at 5 feet 4, climb aboard this tall SUV." But a second MSN reviewer found the boards cumbersome: "Extra effort is needed to get in and out of the tall 4Runner, and its narrow running boards are more of a hindrance than a help for those with large shoes."
It's also worth noting that several reviewers are delighted with the 4Runner's power sliding rear window, which is a departure from the hinged window featured on most midsize SUVs. The window is controlled by either the keyless remote button or an interior switch. However, the remote button can only lower the window; you have to close it from the interior.
Exterior Trims
SR5 base model
Standard SR5 exterior features include 16-inch tires, power-adjustable mirrors, multireflector taillights, a chromed grille, and an integrated towing hitch (V8 models only). Buyers looking for a few extras on the base SR5 4x2 model can add the Option B package, which includes 17-inch alloy wheels, black roof rails with black crossbars, a color-keyed rear spoiler, and daytime running lights.(Could not verify existence of "Option B" package, though all options are separately available)
Sport Edition
The Sport Edition adds a hood scoop, smoked chrome grille and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Limited
The super-luxury Limited includes illuminated running boards and 18-inch rims.
