2008 Toyota 4Runner

2008 4Runner Photos
The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged SUV with impressive off-road capability. A full-framed truck with a solid rear axle, plus the latest in off-road electronics, the 4Runner delivers everything it promises. It's the cowboy without the rhinestones, the genuine article in a market saturated with station wagons posing as off-road adventurers.

The 4Runner can go anywhere a truck can go, and slog through the worst mess you can imagine. Its traditional design gives it an advantage in long-term durability especially over rugged terrain. Properly equipped, it can seat seven people and tow 7300 pounds behind them.

Yet the 4Runner is no rough rider. It's quite comfortable around town and on the highway, with a nice ride quality, almost luxurious. An optional linked shock-absorber system called X-REAS further improves handling in sweeping, high-speed turns.

For 2008, the 4Runner adds roll-sensing side curtain airbags to its list of standard equipment, complementing an impressive array of active safety technology that includes ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, traction control, and electronic stability control.

The 4Runner brings electronic sophistication off-road as well. In fact, you can't truly appreciate the 4Runner until you drive one over rugged terrain. This is a truly amazing vehicle in the muck. With Toyota's Downhill Assist Control, the 4Runner can walk you down a steep, muddy incline with both feet off the pedals, the system selectively applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed. This is an impressive display of technology and engineering. And with Hill-start Assist Control, the 4Runner is just as impressive climbing back up, as it maximizes any available traction. Both full- and part-time four-wheel drive are available, but even the full-time system comes with a locking function for when the going gets sloppy.

Both the V6 and the optional V8 offer responsive performance. We recommend the V8 for drivers who tow. Those who don't tow, or tow only light trailers, such as an ATV, should be more than happy with the V6, which provides excellent performance. Both engines benefit from a sophisticated variable-valve setup and drive-by-wire throttle, delivering strong, responsive acceleration out on the highway. Both come mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is an EPA-rated City/Highway 17/21 mpg for a 4Runner 4WD V6, 15/19 mpg for a V8 4WD.

Inside, the 4Runner is roomy and comfortable. An optional third-row seat expands passenger capacity to seven, but can be folded or removed to gain additional cargo space. The optional voice-activated GPS navigation system includes a rear-mounted video camera that lets the driver back to within an inch of the vehicle behind when parallel parking. It can also help the driver spot a small child before backing up. Bluetooth is available, as is a factory-installed rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

The 4Runner is noted for its quality construction, durability and reliability. If your weekend involves driving over rugged, punishing terrain, yet you want a vehicle that won't punish you in everyday use, the Toyota 4Runner is an excellent choice.
Full Review

The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged SUV with impressive off-road capability. A full-framed truck with a solid rear axle, plus the latest in off-road electronics, the 4Runner delivers everything it promises. It's the cowboy without the rhinestones, the genuine article in a market saturated with station wagons posing as off-road adventurers.

The 4Runner can go anywhere a truck can go, and slog through the worst mess you can imagine. Its traditional design gives it an advantage in long-term durability especially over rugged terrain. Properly equipped, it can seat seven people and tow 7300 pounds behind them.

Yet the 4Runner is no rough rider. It's quite comfortable around town and on the highway, with a nice ride quality, almost luxurious. An optional linked shock-absorber system called X-REAS further improves handling in sweeping, high-speed turns.

For 2008, the 4Runner adds roll-sensing side curtain airbags to its list of standard equipment, complementing an impressive array of active safety technology that includes ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, traction control, and electronic stability control.

The 4Runner brings electronic sophistication off-road as well. In fact, you can't truly appreciate the 4Runner until you drive one over rugged terrain. This is a truly amazing vehicle in the muck. With Toyota's Downhill Assist Control, the 4Runner can walk you down a steep, muddy incline with both feet off the pedals, the system selectively applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed. This is an impressive display of technology and engineering. And with Hill-start Assist Control, the 4Runner is just as impressive climbing back up, as it maximizes any available traction. Both full- and part-time four-wheel drive are available, but even the full-time system comes with a locking function for when the going gets sloppy.

Both the V6 and the optional V8 offer responsive performance. We recommend the V8 for drivers who tow. Those who don't tow, or tow only light trailers, such as an ATV, should be more than happy with the V6, which provides excellent performance. Both engines benefit from a sophisticated variable-valve setup and drive-by-wire throttle, delivering strong, responsive acceleration out on the highway. Both come mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is an EPA-rated City/Highway 17/21 mpg for a 4Runner 4WD V6, 15/19 mpg for a V8 4WD.

Inside, the 4Runner is roomy and comfortable. An optional third-row seat expands passenger capacity to seven, but can be folded or removed to gain additional cargo space. The optional voice-activated GPS navigation system includes a rear-mounted video camera that lets the driver back to within an inch of the vehicle behind when parallel parking. It can also help the driver spot a small child before backing up. Bluetooth is available, as is a factory-installed rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

The 4Runner is noted for its quality construction, durability and reliability. If your weekend involves driving over rugged, punishing terrain, yet you want a vehicle that won't punish you in everyday use, the Toyota 4Runner is an excellent choice.
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Retail Price

$28,415 - $39,135 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 4.0L V-6, 4.7L V-8
MPG Up to 16 city / 21 highway
Seating 5 Passengers
Transmission 5-spd auto w/OD
Power 236 - 260 hp
Drivetrain four-wheel, rear-wheel
Curb Weight 4,045 - 4,530 lbs
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