Since its initial production in 1985, the Toyota 4Runner has always been an excellent off-road machine, as well as a capable and versatile highway hauler. Although the 4Runner traditionally comes with a long list of excellent features, we have harbored a few pet peeves with the vehicle.
The interior, while adequate,has always felt somewhat cramped with uncomfortable seating. In addition,previous powerplants have been somewhat anemic, and it often seemed that Toyota put to much emphasis on off-road appeal other then on-road pleasure.However,for the 03′ 4Runner, everything has changed. First off, this fourth-generation 4Runner is larger then it’s predecessors, especially in the interior where it counts. It has 4-1/2 incs in additional length and wheelbase, and more then 3 inches of additional width. Inside, the new 4Runners has 2 inches of additional front legroom, 1-1/2 inches more rear legroom, slightly more headroom, a pleasing 4-1/2 inches of extra shoulder room, and 5-1/2 inches of additional hip room in the front.
Performance is also vastly improved in this model, since a V-8 powerplant is now an option on the 4Runner. An all-new 4.0L V-6, which delivers 245hp and 283 lb-ft of torque, is the standard engine. The 4.7L V-8 is the same engine found in the current land cruiser and Sequoia. All4WD 4Runners are equipped with with a two speed transfer case and a Multi-Mode shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with a Torsen sensing-type limited-slip center differential. Additional features of the new 4Runner include a sport enhancement suspension system on the Sports Edition, a Downhill Assist Control system, a Hill-start. Assist Control system (for greater uphill versatility), anti-lock disc brakes at all four corners, and an all-new body-on-ladder frame chassis design.
Toyota
