4Runners with the V8 and 4WD come with what Toyota calls a full-time system, but it operates much less like a car or crossover-style all-wheel-drive than it does Toyota's own part-time system with the 2WD mode removed. A Torsen center differential distributes torque 40 percent front / 60 percent rear under most conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip. It automatically shifts to 29/71 front/rear during steering maneuvers to enhance tracking through the curve. If the rear wheels should spin, however, the center differential can shift the ratio to 53/47 to control the slippage. And again, it can be locked out completely when the going gets extreme.

All 4WD 4Runners come with Toyota's Downhill Assist Control (DAC) system, which controls the speed when creeping down steep, slimy grades. Shift into 4WD Low, check to make sure DAC is activated, pull to the edge of the nearest precipice, take your feet off the pedals, and steer your way slowly down the trail. Once you make the leap of faith that comes with allowing the machinery to do the work for you, Downhill Assist works very well and is easy to manage. The antilock brakes make a noisy "dunk, dunk, dunk" sound as the system lowers the 4Runner safely down the slippery slope. Gently touch the gas or brake pedals to slow or speed your progress, then take your feet off the pedals again, and the system comes back on: "dunk, dunk, dunk, dunk." DAC helps keep the 4Runner pointed in the direction you steer it, using ABS to curb the tendency for the vehicle to get sideways on steep descents. The system will work continuously for three minutes (because the brakes will heat up with prolonged use), but Toyota officials say it only needs the shortest of breaks to continue. Three minutes is usually more than enough time to get to the bottom of the sort of extreme descent we're contemplating here.

All 4Runners, 2WD and 4WD, come with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), which is designed to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways when starting off on a steep ascent. The system uses the brakes to stop an individual wheel or all wheels, whatever it takes to keep 4Runner running forward.

The optional rear air suspension offers improved ride and performance when towing or hauling heavy loads. The air suspension automatically adjusts the ride height according to vehicle load. The driver can also manually raise the rear suspension when driving off road to increase the ground clearance and improve the rear departure angle. This latter feature is useful in the extreme conditions, but most owners will never go there.

X-REAS improves handling dynamics on the road with no compromise in off-road articulation or travel. X-REAS reduces the tendency of the vehicle to bob up and down in corners and improves handling by damping body pitch and roll. A simple system, it links the shock absorbers diagonally through hydraulic lines (e.g., the front left shock is linked to the rear right shock). A central control damper helps keep the system in balance.

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) come standard on all 4Runners. The four-channel ABS prevents the wheels from locking under severe braking, improving driver control. The 4Runner's ABS uses an off-road algorithm to improve stopping performance in slippery conditions, a great feature. EBD automatically balances the braking force front-to-rear for shorter stopping distances. Brake Assist helps a driver who may not be pressing the brake pedal hard enough during an emergency stopping situation by maximizing braking power regardless of the force on the pedal.

Overall, we found that 4Runner's brakes worked well. They felt a bit sensitive on the V8 models, and were a little challenging to modulate for limo-smooth stops, but owners will quickly adjust to this.

The 4Runner's fuel tank was specifically designed for off-road use. The tank is plastic, offering better protection against corrosion, rust-through and connection leaks. Yet the plastic tank is armored by a steel case for protection against debris kicked up by the tires, or against the rocks off-highway enthusiasts might encounter.

Summary

The Toyota 4Runner is a highly capable trail vehicle. It will get you over the rocks and through the muck, but it won't make you regret its durable construction when you're cruising the Interstate. It's smooth and quiet on the road and there's plenty of room for family and friends. The V6 is our first choice for its power and efficiency, but the V8 delivers excellent response and is the proper choice for towing. If you want serious recreational capability with quality, durability and reliability, the 4Runner is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you rarely venture onto unimproved trails, then you'll find the Toyota Highlander and car-based SUVs smoother and more comfortable.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup: