2016 Toyota 4Runner
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New for 2016
For 2016, all 4Runner models gain the latest version of Entune®, allowing you to connect and display your phone's navigation to the vehicle's infotainment screen. The 4Runner also now supports Siri Eyes Free for iPhone® users.
Keepin’ It Old-School
The Toyota 4Runner has been on sale longer than almost any other SUV, but the market landscape has changed significantly since the Toyota truck first rolled into U.S. showrooms in 1984. Most SUVs have sacrificed genuine utility and off-road prowess for car-like driving manners and attempts at greater fuel economy. The 4Runner remains unapologetically old school, offering everything a modern SUV should, but with a few tricks the common crossover doesn’t have.
Performance
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is offered with a single powertrain option that is as capable as the rest of this go-anywhere vehicle. A 4.0-liter V6 produces 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It’s connected to a five-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive, multi-mode full-time four-wheel drive, or part-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. The latter provides greater control over power distribution in low-traction situations.
The 4Runner has been on sale since long before most people heard the word “hybrid,” but it still returns respectable fuel economy. The EPA rates rear-wheel drive models at 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway),* while models with either four-wheel drive system are rated at 18 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway).*
Most SUVs on sale today are actually car-based crossovers, but not the 4Runner. It retains old-school body-on-frame construction, making for off-road ability matched by few other vehicles currently in production. Four-wheel drive models have an impressive 9.6 inches of ground clearance, with approach and departure angles of 33 degrees and 26 degrees, respectively. The Trail model also features Crawl Control and Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system, which can adjust wheel slip depending on terrain.
That off-road prowess is enhanced by the TRD Pro model. It comes from the desert rats at Toyota Racing Development, the performance division behind Toyota’s numerous Baja 1000 victories. The TRD Pro adds remote-reservoir Bilstein shock absorbers, TRD-tuned springs, a front skidplate, matte-black 17-inch alloy wheels with more aggressive Nitto Terra Grappler tires, and other upgrades.
Features
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is a midsize five-door SUV with standard seating for five, or seating for seven with the optional third row. It’s available in seven trim levels, with prices starting at $33,810.**
The base 4Runner model is the SR5, which comes standard with features like LED taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, a 40/20/40 split-folding second-row bench seat, power tailgate, Entune® premium audio system with navigation and app suite, and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel.
A Premium package adds a power moonroof, SofTex-trimmed seats with front heating, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Trail and Trail Premium models largely mirror the equipment of the SR5 and SR5 Premium, but with added off-road equipment and model-specific styling elements.
The TRD Pro includes the aforementioned suspension and wheel-and-tire upgrades, plus model-specific, mostly blacked-out exterior trim, badging, and a unique retro “Toyota” grille.
The top 4Runner model is the Limited, which adds more luxurious features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, and a sport suspension system.
Design
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner’s toughness and off-road ability is matched by its macho tough-looking exterior styling.
The 4Runner features a bold front end with a wide-mouthed grille and aggressively-shaped headlights and deep channels housing fog lights. At the back, standard LED taillights and a rear spoiler continue the sporty look. Skid plates ensure owners will never mortally wound their 4Runner while putting the truck through its paces.
The hard-edged exterior is complemented by a comfortable interior. The leather-wrapped steering wheel boasts Bluetooth and audio controls, while a split-folding second row, and optional third-row, bench make the 4Runner a great family vehicle. Maximum interior volume is a useful 144.5 cubic feet.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2016 Toyota 4Runner includes anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction controls, all bundled as part of Toyota’ Star Safety System. Other standard features include a rearview camera, hill-start assist, Safety Connect telematics system, and a full complement of airbags. A park-sensor system is available on the Limited model.
Verdict
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is an old-school SUV that still has a place on modern roads. It sports a few tricks modern crossover don't, and is a must for customers seeking a more traditional, go-anywhere, approach to SUV design and functionality.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit Heritage Toyota Catonsville, Harrisburg & Owings Mills at Find a Location Near You.
*2016 EPA-estimated mileage. Actual mileage will vary.
** Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee of $825 for Cars, $885 for Small/Light Trucks (Sienna, RAV4, Highlander Gas, Highlander HV, 4Runner, Tacoma and Venza), $1100 for Large Trucks (Tundra), and $995 for Large SUVs (Sequoia and Land Cruiser). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota's charge for these services is called the "Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee" and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota's overall pricing structure. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee.) Excludes taxes, license, title and available or regionally required equipment. The Delivery, Processing and Handling Fee in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX will be higher. Actual dealer price will vary.
Image: Toyota