Sunday, February 22, 2009

2008 Toyota 4Runner Sport

2008 Toyota 4Runner Sport

The ride of the Toyota 4Runner Sport is a bit stiff, but it handles snow storms with ease.
A picture of The ride of the Toyota 4Runner Sport is a bit stiff, but it handles snow storms with ease.
The ride of the Toyota 4Runner Sport is a bit stiff, but it handles snow storms with ease.
As-tested price: $36,062
Drivetrain: 4.0-liter V6; 4wd, five-speed automatic
Output: 236 hp @ 5200 rpm, 266 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm
Curb weight: 4530 lb
Fuel economy (EPA/AW): 18/16.2 mpg
Options: Power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade ($900); satellite radio ($449); weight-carrying tow hitch and ball mount ($430); alarm system ($359); premium sound ($200); spoiler with high-mounted stop lamp ($200); floor and cargo mats ($199); daytime running lights ($40)

Editor's note: Today's Drive has become Short Stint, but the information is still the same--a brief impression of a vehicle that's been in our test fleet.

OUR TAKE: Our Sport-trim test vehicle, with its upgraded suspension, is quite the handler. While the ride does get a bit rough when encountering big bumps, the 4Runner takes turns nicely with the meaty off-road tires. Steering has a nice weight, and response is good.

The 4.0-liter V6 is plenty potent, with quick pickup and smooth operation mated to the auto gearbox. Unless you tow often, there's little need to upgrade to the V8. The brakes are strong and grabby--almost too grabby, but we'll take that over the mushy pedal feel of many similar midsize utes.

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The interior is nice and simple, with plenty of spots to hold belongings, though we find the climate controls a bit annoying, with separate buttons for each fan setting. Note to Toyota: There's nothing wrong with a knob.

We're also reminded of what's so great about having an SUV during a snowstorm. A quick click of the dashboard dial puts the 4Runner into 4wd, and this puppy is unstoppable.

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