For 2011, the venerable Toyota 4runner arrives with macho chunky looks. The previous generation was sleeker and the new square design was a surprise for me. Still the 4Runner has been a popular seller and the new look is more contemporary with lots of interesting details on the exterior. Another significant change is the new 4.0 litre V6 engine with 270 hp.

 The interior is neat and professional with a roomy cabin front and rear. High quality materials, workmanship and comfortable seats are a feature and there are lots of nooks and crannies to stash items. 

  Flip the rear bench and the seats back, and 2,540 litres of cargo space opens up. The optional third row of seating is handy for kids or nimble smaller adults.

Towing capacity is rated at 2,268 kgs. Ergonomics are good, with big round knobs for audio system and HVAC that can be operated with the winter gloves on, when it’s cold. Visibility is good and our tester featured a small rear camera screen on the rear view mirror.

The 4runner has a slew of goodies that makes it very competent off- road. For starters, the   4Runner’s real part-time 4-wheel drive with high and low ranges can be activated via a selector knob on the centre console and even the base 4Runner  model has off-road friendly features such as vehicle stability control, active traction control, hill-start assist, downhill assist, automatic disconnecting differential and protector plates for fuel tank and transfer case.

Opt for an extra cost, the Trail Edition Package includes rear differential lock, crawl control, multi-terrain select and multi-terrain ABS.

Also, there’s the Kinetic dynamic suspension system (KDSS), which allows the front and rear stabilizers to move independent of one another via interconnected hydraulic cylinders. KDSS activates when it senses that a wheel has dropped, and will not engage during normal driving conditions when hydraulic pressure is equal. This proves invaluable on seriously tough, rocky terrain.

Note; the new 4.0 litre V6 engine with 270 hp is actually more powerful than the previous V8! Transmission is a five-speed automatic with overdrive. Acceleration is 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, which makes the 4Runner one of the fastest vehicles in its class. Canadian EnerGuide fuel economy ratings are as follows: 12.6 L/100km city; 9.2 L/100km hwy.

On the road, the 4Runner’s ride is well damped, but its body on frame truck origins are clear. It is high off the ground and you will not get the sedan- like ride of the Toyota Highlander for example. Still it’s no deal breaker, as the 4Runner handles urban and suburban road with poise and confidence. 

The 4Runner really shines off-road where the four-wheel drive system’s low range and increased approach and departure angles allow you to tackle terrain only a Jeep or Land Rover may dare.   The Multi-Terrain Select System allows you to adjust for different terrain settings while the amazing Crawl Control offers five throttle and brake control settings. The 4runner offers excellent off-roading ability, yet can handle daily driving with aplomb.  A very impressive SUV with true credentials.

  2011 Toyota 4Runner priced from $36,820

  Trail Edition priced from $44,130.   

Read more Toyota auto reviews at www.shiftinggears.ca

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