Review: 2010 Toyota 4Runner Features, Invoice Prices

Toyota introduced the 4Runner just over 25 years ago and it's still around for good reason. It's a traditional SUV with a rugged demeanor and a "go anywhere" attitude. And the 2010 4Runner, with its strong V6 engine, generous cargo space and excellent off-road capability, is once again a top pick in this segment.

It also received a fairly significant redesign this year. Based on the same platform as its rough-and-tumble sibling, the FJ Cruiser, the new 4Runner remains devoted to outdoor enthusiasts who value toughness in a taller, wider and longer package than the previous model.

While of course featuring its renowned solid rear axle for better off-road performance, the 2010 4Runner further ups the performance-ante with a new available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which is able to disconnect the front and rear stabilizer bars when traveling below 40 mph for increased wheel contact on uneven terrain. And style-wise, the 4Runner's new front grille and fender flares produce an updated and edgier look.

Also new is the somewhat curious return to an available four-cylinder 4Runner (last offered in 2002). It's curious because it lacks the punch normally associated with a 4Runner and is mated with a basic 4-speed automatic transmission. And all while getting essentially the same gas mileage as the 4.0 liter V6.

While anything is possible, it's likely most buyers will be attracted by the V6, which received a power boost good for 270 horsepower (was 236) and 278 pound-feet of torque (was 266) while not sacrificing any fuel efficiency. The optional V8, however, has been dropped. So consumers who want maximum power and hauling abilities will need to search out other models.

Trims, Standard Features And Options:

The 2010 Toyota 4Runner is classified as a midsize SUV and is available in three trims: SR5, Trail and Limited.

Standard features on the SR5 include full power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning, a power rear window, foglights, 17 inch alloy wheels, skid plates, black fender flares and rocker panels, a trip computer, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a CD/MP3 stereo system with an auxiliary audio jack. In addition, the four-wheel-drive (or V6-equipped) models get heated sideview mirrors with turn signals and puddle lights, a tow hitch receiver, chrome roof rails and grille, and color-keyed fender flares and rocker panels.

The 4Runner Trail is available with the V6 and 4WD only. Added standard features include power front seats, Bluetooth, water-resistant upholstery, a backup camera with a rearview mirror display, steering wheel mounted audio controls, upgraded gauges, a sliding rear cargo deck, smoked headlights and taillights, off-road tires, a hood scoop, Crawl Control (automatically adjusts throttle and brakes going up or down hills), a locking rear differential and an upgraded sound system with satellite radio and a USB port with iPod connectivity.

The top-of-the-line 4Runner Limited comes with leather upholstery, heated front seats, keyless ignition, keyless entry, driver power lumbar adjuster, dual-zone automatic climate control, 20 inch alloy wheels, Toyota's X-REAS adaptive suspension dampers, automatic headlights and an upgraded 15-speaker stereo system with a 6-disc CD changer.

Depending on geographic area, many of the Trail and Limited features are optional on the SR5 model. Other available options, depending on the model, include the KDSS off-road suspension, voice-activated navigation, a third-row seat and a sunroof.

Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:

Powering the 2010 Toyota 4Runner is either a four-cylinder engine (on the 2WD SR5) that produces 157 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, or a 4.0 liter V6 (all other models) that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft . The inline-4 is coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 is paired with a 5-speed automatic.

Both the SR5 and Limited models come with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (part-time on the SR5, full-time on the Limited), while the Trail is equipped only with part-time 4WD. When properly equipped, 5,000 pounds is the towing capacity for V6 models.

The EPA-estimated gas mileage numbers are very similar across all models. The 2WD four-cylinder 4Runner is rated at 18 mpg city and 23 mpg on the highway, while the 2WD V6 comes in at 17 mpg city and 23 highway. The 4WD V6 4Runner is rated at 17 and 22, respectively.

Safety:

Standard safety features on all 2010 Toyota 4Runners include antilock disc brakes (ABS) with brake assist, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length roll-sensing side curtain airbags, active front head restraints and front knee airbags.

Although not yet government crash tested at the time of this writing, the 2009 4Runner received a perfect five stars for both front and rear side-impact passenger protection, and four stars for driver and passenger protection in frontal impacts.

Interior:

The 4Runner's interior is attractive, well designed and user-friendly, while the Limited's cabin is very much like what you'd expect from a Lexus. Overall, the seating is comfortable and supportive. And new this year is a nifty and useful "ECO" meter that lets you know how fuel-efficiently you're driving.

With its increased dimensions for 2010, the 4Runner is more spacious than the previous version, providing ample room for five passengers. However, the optional third-row is a bit cramped, making it more suitable for children or small adults. Maximum cargo capacity comes in at a respectable 90 cubic feet.

Drive:

The V6 2010 4Runner can go from a standstill to 60 mph in a fairly quick-for-its-class 8.2 seconds. With its satisfactory power and well-timed 5-speed automatic transmission, the 4Runner is capable and confident both around town and cruising down the highway. The four-cylinder, however, is not 4Runner-like both in terms of its lackluster power and outdated 4-speed automatic. A better four-cylinder choice would be the Toyota Highlander with its 6-speed automatic and 30 additional horsepower.

Even though it's a traditional truck-based SUV, the 2010 4Runner possesses a smooth and controlled ride. But it is clearly at its best taking on off-road challenges. With 9.6 inches of ground clearance on 4WD models, the 4Runner's already excellent rugged-terrain ability is even further enhanced with the new KDSS.

Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower 4Runner Prices:

Toyota's sales have been on the weak side historically for close to the past two years now, right along with the other car brands and evidence of a continuing slow economy.

They've recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with intense dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down some great deals.

Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.

How To Buy A New 4Runner At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2010 Toyota 4Runner, here's exactly how to buy one at the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.

Prices:

2010 Toyota 4Runner SUV:

SR5, RWD, I4: list price: $27,500, invoice price: $25,025
SR5, RWD, V6: list price: $29,175, invoice price: $26,548
SR5, 4WD, V6: list price: $30,915, invoice price: $28,132

Trail, 4WD, V6: list price: $35,700, invoice price: $32,487

Limited, RWD, V6: list price: $37,765, invoice price: $34,365
Limited, 4WD, V6: list price: $39,800, invoice price: $36,218

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