2004 Toyota 4Runner SR5 V8 from North America

Summary:

The best truck/SUV I have ever driven

Faults:

I've had no problems, with the vehicle, during the first 1500 km of use.

General Comments:

I purchased this vehicle for my weekend adventure trips, which means driving on bad roads and highways. It has surpassed my expectations, and is really fun to drive in poor conditions.

I chose the V8 option, for the full-time 4WD. It easily handled a foot of fresh snow on top of ice over a 40 mile stretch without any problems.

The electronic stability assistance does an excellent job of helping to keep the vehicle pointed straight while on icy roads.

The gas mileage has been lower than I expected, earning only 18 MPG combined city/highway.

The climate control functions are clumsy, and a bit difficult to operate without staring at them while driving.

There are no warning bells if you leave the headlights on and exit the vehicle. This has been a standard feature on most vehicles for 15+ years, so I'm surprised it's not on this vehicle.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st November, 2004

25th Aug 2005, 10:07

I am getting a 2004 or 2005. You are the 2nd person mentioning the lights on warning bell. Is it possible that this model now has the auto-off light feature, hence no need for the alarm? Can't believe Toyota would leave that off, even my 1997 4Runner has it.

23rd Jan 2006, 20:48

I work for Toyota. Any Toyota equipped with an "Auto" feature on its lights will turn off the headlights with a delayed timer when set in "auto" mode. If you have the light switch in the regular on mode, they will turn off as soon as the driver's door is opened. No need for the "on" chime on these models. If the vehicle doesn't have an "auto" mode, then they are equipped with a warning chime.

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2004 Toyota 4Runner 4x4 Sport Edition V6 from North America

Summary:

This vehicle is highly recommended

Faults:

Vehicle is brand new still, but thought I would let people know this vehicle is an improvement over previous 4 Runners. There is nearly 100 more horsepower over previous models.

Only one minor problem has been noticed. The roof rack adjustment screws can work themselves loose and must be checked periodically for tightness. Failure to do so results in clanking noises at highway speeds.

General Comments:

Previously I drove a 92 4Runner and upgraded in 2004. The 04 vehicle is much better and drives more like a car. The suspension is very tight and steering is easy. The only negative is visibility out the side rear windows is somewhat challenging. Toyota has placed mirrors in the rear inside corners of the vehicle to help with driver sight. This helps somewhat.

The factory tires do not grip the road that well.

The seats are comfortable and the rear passengers have more leg room than previous models.

The oil filter is much easier to access than old models. Access is available under the hood and the filter is inverted with no obstructions.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd October, 2004

4th Mar 2007, 18:06

Considering the added weight, this is barely a minimum to expect. The japenese figures about HP is under revision at the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineer). Simply put, a 235HP Dodge 4.7L will leave in the dust a 300HP Toyota because the available power is obtained at lower RPM. So far, Toyota uses lower gearing to compensate for the lack of torque and HP. Basicaly, compared to a Jeep, more ground clearance is needed in the rough since momentum is hard to achieve.

12th Jan 2011, 08:55

2004 4Runner Sport is the second best vehicle I ever owned, the first is a 1999 4Runner.

The only reason the 2004 is not the best yet: it still has many more miles to put on it with no problems to compare with the 1999 that never had any problems.

Best vehicles, period TOYOTA!

I also had an 1982 Honda Civic, also an unbelievably great car. The worst are Chrysler and Ford, speaking from experience.