Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is one of the most rugged mid-size SUV. While its sturdy body-on-frame construction and off-road-oriented options make it seriously capable when the road ends and bolster its outdoorsy image. Toyota has modernized this ancient four-wheeler with an impressive amount of standard driver assists and infotainment features. The 4Runner also has generous cargo space, and its roomy cabin can be outfitted with a small third row.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 4Runner's 4.0-liter V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission can team with either rear-, four-, or all-wheel drive. Entry-level SR5 models are rear-wheel drive, while all other trims except the tippity-top Limited model come with selectable, part-time four-wheel drive. Those models have a manually selectable two-speed transfer case with a low-range setting. Limited models have full-time all-wheel drive with a Torsen center differential that can apportion torque to the front or rear wheels as necessary, depending on road conditions and which wheels have traction. In our testing, the mid-level 4Runner TRD Off-Road model provided dutiful acceleration, its old-school V-6 groaning along with a gruff exhaust note.