- 2010
2009 Toyota 4Runner
- Used Toyota 4Runner
Toyota 4Runner - What the Auto Press Says
The Toyota 4Runner's versatility for on-road or off-road driving will satisfy most prospective buyers. Its downsides include limited cabin space and below-average fuel economy.
Introduced in 2003, the 4Runner's current model represents its fourth generation. After a 2005 drivetrain update and a 2006 facelift, the 2009 4Runner remains largely unchanged. New this year is an optional Trail Edition package for the base model. "Toyota's first modern SUV has matured from a pickup-based mudslinger to a pricey suburban family hack," says Car and Driver. "The styling is handsome and the 4Runner can perform a few off-road tricks, but the latest Highlander serves suburban family needs better and is more modern."
Families who need cargo space in addition to extra seats may want to pass on the 4Runner, which loses cargo capacity when the third row is in use. Also, when buyers have felt the sting of high gas prices, many may not like the 4Runner's fuel economy numbers, which are in the bottom half of the class. However, those who can stomach the pain at the pump may be able to save some cash at the dealership. In the current market, all automakers, including Toyota, are struggling to move SUVs. Be sure to check for current Toyota deals that may be available on a new 4Runner. However, note that a redesign is expected for 2010, so you may want to hold off for the newer model.
The 4Runner has three available trims: the base SR5, the Sport Edition, and the top-of-the-line Limited. All trims are available with four-wheel drive.
- "Some rivals offer a smoother ride and sharper on-road handling, but 4Runner is tough to beat for refinement, off-road ability, and overall execution. Toyota charges premium prices for this SUV, but in exchange it delivers a satisfying array of available safety features, traction enhancers, and a reputation for reliability and high resale value." -- Consumer Guide
- "Mixing true off-road performance with a family-friendly upscale interior, the 2009 Toyota 4Runner comes across as a versatile and powerful midsize SUV." -- Car Gurus
- "The perfect combination of ruggedness, refinement, and quality." -- Automobile Magazine
- "The 2009 Toyota 4Runner is a solid off-roader, but the fact of the matter is that it's thirsty in both six- and eight-cylinder versions, has a dated interior that wasn't much good to begin with, and is outclassed by newer vehicles." -- Autobytel
- "Although the 4Runner has grown larger and more luxurious over the years, at its core it remains a versatile and rugged SUV, as comfortable traversing a boulder-strewn desert as a four-lane highway. Still, it is easy to find newer SUV and CUV designs with more interior room, smoother rides and more electronic goodies. Budget-conscious buyers will probably suffer sticker shock, as even the most basic rear-wheel drive 4Runner model starts around $29,500." -- Kelley Blue Book
4Runner Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 4Runner's smooth ride quality both on- and off-road is one of its strongest traits -- and allows it to function well as a daily driver. Still, some test drivers find the ride too truck-like. "Old-fashioned body-on-frame construction with a solid rear axle means an old-fashioned truck ride," says Car and Driver. "Quick with the V-8." Test drivers are especially impressed with the 4Runner's off-road capabilities. Read More
4Runner Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
The 4Runner's rugged exterior styling is a bit over-the-top for an SUV. "With its massive front bumper, prominent overfenders, and body cladding, the 4Runner looks off-road rugged and ready to hit the dusty trail," says New Car Test Drive. The 4Runner's unique exterior features include water-repellant glass. Read More
4Runner Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The 2009 Toyota 4Runner's interior is comfortable and quiet with good build quality, but has limited utility. "4Runner interiors are nicely appointed with a good mix of textured plastics and soft-touch surfaces," says Consumer Guide. On the other hand, reviewers are disappointed with the rear cargo area. Read More
4Runner Safety - 7.5 (Good)
The 4Runner features a long list of driver aids and is backed by good government crash test ratings. Automobile Magazine says, "Toyota has set the 4Runner apart from the rest of the pack with its safety features." Read More
4Runner Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2009 Toyota 4Runner reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 4Runner comes with Toyota's basic 36-month/36,000-mile warranty. Read More
