Originally a compact pickup truck with five-passenger and a permanent bed shell, the Toyota 4Runner has evolved considerably since its humble origins in 1984. The current fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner underwent a major overhaul in 2010 and continues to play on the unique strengths, which is a true off-road capability, which it shares with the Toyota FJ Cruiser.

Toyota dropped the 2.4-liter inline-4 engine last year, the 4.0-liter V-6 engine only. Built on a rugged body-on-frame construction, the 2012 Toyota 4Runner is available in a variety of configurations.

The 2012 Toyota 4Runner still offered three models: base SR5, Limited feature-rich, and the off-road trail model. The 4Runner is available in standard or two rows of seats with an optional third row that allows for up to seven person capacity.

Toyota 4Runner SUVs calibration of the suspension to feel almost like a crossover. But it's the paths that the 4Runner really shines. All 4Runner 4x4 models feature standard Downhill Assist Control (DAC). Both the base SR5 and Trail 4x4 models have a two-speed lever operated, part-time system, while the Limited comes with a full-time, four-wheel-drive system with center differential lock. It's the Toyota Trail model, however, that the largest off-road capability with its standard Crawl Control (CRAWL) system, Multi-Terrain Select system, and the optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) offers.

Body style: SUV

Engine: 4.0-liter V-6

Transmission: five-speed automatic

Models: SR5, Trail, Limited

The Toyota 4Runner SUV underwent a complete redesign and engineering back in 2010, so that subsequent changes have been small. For model year 2011, the Toyota 4Runner got a new brake override system. Inside, the sliding cargo tray / cargo organizer, become optional on certain 4Runner Limited and a separate option on the 4Runner Trail models.

For model year 2012 the power running boards are optional on the Toyota 4Runner SR5 and Limited models, while the next Entune infotainment system that hands-free access enables mobile applications and other online data services will be offered as an option Toyota 4Runner SR5 and Trail models and standard on the 4Runner Limited models.

Undergoes a complete re-engineering and redesign back in 2010, the 2012 Toyota 4Runner SUV carries over virtually unchanged into the new model year. Power running boards are optional on SR5 and Limited models.

While there are few changes to the interior of the 2012 Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Entune new system - including mobile applications and data services - is now available.

Performance & Handling

Designed for off-road, the 2012 Toyota 4Runner, perform with his body-on-frame architecture and live rear axle, a bouncy ride though still soft compared to many competitors offer. Dealing with some feeling on the light side but it makes it easy to park the full-sized vehicle. Acceleration is brisk and the brakes are progressive and strong. Watch the 2012 Toyota 4Runner can tow up to 5000 lbs.

The 2012 Toyota 4Runner, like all current Toyota vehicles, comes standard with the Toyota Star Safety System that anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Smart Stop (SST), traction control (TRAC included) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Also standard including six airbags, front-mounted side airbags and front and rear curtain airbags,. The 4Runner also features Auto LSD (Limited Slip Differential) for better traction on slippery surfaces. Airbag system includes front, side-mounted and knee airbags for driver and front passenger, and curtain airbags for those in the second and third row. Owners can also subscribe to the safety of Toyota's Connect telematics system that automatically Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Roadside Assistance offers. Finally, a reversing camera and sonar systems offered on the Toyota 4Runner.

Toyota 4Runner with 4x2: 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway

Toyota 4Runner with 4x4: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway