2007 Toyota 4Runner Safety Review [ 2008 ]
Toyota 4Runner Safety Review
Safety - 7.9 (Good)
Auto reviewers agree that the 4Runner features a long list of driver aids -- backed up by its favorable ratings in government crash tests. Automobile Magazine says, "Toyota has set the 4Runner apart from the rest of the pack with its safety features."
Occupants can rest assured that the 4Runner does considerably well in crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2007 SR5 model an overall evaluation of "good," the highest possible rating. In government crash tests, the 2007 model received 4 stars for driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests, 5 stars (the best rating) for front and rear seat safety in side crash tests, and 3 stars in rollover tests.
Accident Avoidance
Most notably, all models come with hill start assist control (HAC), an advanced braking system, while four-wheel-drive units also add downhill assist control (DAC). And every model comes with a Star Safety System that includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brake system with electronic brake force distribution, and Brake Assist. In addition to those advanced driver aids, every 4Runner comes with a tire pressure monitor system.
To increase visibility, all models also come with convex mirrors (verified through New Car Test Drive) placed strategically at the top corners of the rear hatch (not available on models with the optional JBL audio system). However, New Car Test Drive's reviewer notes that using them is not easy. Though the mirrors are designed to help the driver see approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space, "it's hard to distinguish details. We're guessing most people won't use them and may not even notice they're there," the reviewer says.
A rear backup camera option is also available with the optional comprehensive audio and navigational system. New Car Test Drive reports that the rearview video camera "...works incredibly well. A video camera hidden in the rear bumper projects the image onto the seven-inch navigation screen on the center dash whenever the 4Runner is in reverse. The pictures are sharp."
Crash Protection
For crash protection, the 4Runner boasts driver front air bags and front passenger air bags with Advanced Airbag System, as well as side-impact door beams in the front and rear. Front side-impact air bags and curtain-style head protection air bags for front and rear passengers are optional on all models.
