A rugged and handsome sport utility vehicle, the 2013 Toyota 4Runner delivers a dynamic performance whether offroading or trekking through city traffic. Traditionally styled and decked out with a handsome assortment of standard features, the 4Runner is available in three trim levels, each offering a variety of unique accessories. The 4Runner offers some excellent towing power while also comfortably driving a family to and from work or school. A tough vehicle with all the nimble handling and passing speed an SUV owner could want; the 2013 Toyota 4Runner asserts itself fully with this highly competitive offering.
New For 2013
The 4Runner carries over essentially unchanged.
Exterior
The 2013 Toyota 4Runner continues its tradition of rugged styling, featuring its characteristic boxy shape with flat front end design. Its upright windshield and nearly vertical liftgate also contribute to this appearance. The bulging fenders add a bit of flair to its look, adding a muscular look to the vehicle. While other sport utility vehicles have begun to take on a more car-like appearance, the 4Runner keeps its toughness intact. The SR5 utilizes more chrome accents, while the Trail features black accents, including a dark smoke treatment on the headlights and taillights. The rear liftgate features a unique power rear window. The SR5 and Trail trim levels include 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Limited trim gets 20-inch alloy wheels. Roof rails are a standard feature for all models, which is great for transporting recreational gear. Power-extending running boards, a power sunroof, and cargo cross bars are all available as options. The 4Runner comes in a choice of up to five body colors, including Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, and Salsa Red Pearl.
Interior & Cargo
The interior of the 2013 Toyota 4Runner is handsomely laid out, featuring large, easy to use controls that could be worked even with work gloves on. Drawing on a utilitarian appeal, the 4Runner’s center stack of controls is done in bright, metallic trim and is tastefully styled. The metallic trim accents throughout the cabin give it a modern and high-tech look. The front seats are comfortable and provide plenty of support. The SR5 is equipped with cloth seat that adjust six ways manually, while the Trail and Limited trims receive eight-way power adjustable seats. The Limited trim adds leather seats that are also heated. The second row of seats are roomy and comfortable, as well as the third row, which has a decent amount of space for average-size adults. These rows can be folded down to maximize the vehicle’s cargo area. Its already generous 47.2 cubic feet becomes a whopping 89.7 cubic feet. Standard equipment includes cruise control, air-conditioning, and full power accessories. Audio and cruise controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel. The Limited trim adds dual zone climate controls and a rearview camera. Bluetooth wireless connectivity for hands-free calls is provided as a standard feature for all trim levels. Entertainment includes an AM/FM in-dash single CD player with MP3 playback stereo, iPod integration, and three months of service to Sirius XM satellite radio with NavTraffic. This system includes eight total speakers. The optional Entune premium audio setup features 15 total speakers and integration into the navigation system, which is easy to use. The navigation system also provides a rearview camera.
Safety
The 2013 Toyota 4Runner includes all the basic safety features that would be expected, such as four-wheel, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear head airbags, and dual front side-mounted airbags. As a bonus, a Hill-start Assist Control system is included and the four-wheel drive vehicles receive Downhill Assist Control for taking steep grades more steadily. As an added measure of security the Trail and Limited include an anti-theft alarm system as a standard feature as well. The 4Runner received the highest rating of ""Good"" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for its front, side, and rear impact tests. It received a more modest rating of just “Acceptable” for its roof strength test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the 4Runner four out of five stars overall, including four stars for frontal impact and five stars for side impact.
Driving Experience
As might be expected, the 2013 Toyota 4Runner is a rugged vehicle that performs well in off-road settings. More surprisingly, however, the 4Runner delivers a fairly athletic ride, with nimble handling even at city speeds. Its maneuverability is quite nimble; though the vehicle’s large size can show when taking a corner too quickly. Acceleration is excellent, and whether climbing steep hills or passing on the highway the vehicle feels quick and the five-speed, automatic transmission responds well. The 4.0-liter, six-cylinder engine produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Estimated fuel economy stands at 17/21 mpg city/highway, which is little better than the competition. The Trail trim includes several features to enhance its off-roading capabilities, including such accessories as Crawl Control and a Multi-Terrain Select system. The SR5 gets a choice between a rear-wheel drive system and a part-time four-wheel drive system. The Trail only gets a four-wheel drive system, and the Limited gets a different full-time four-wheel drive system that is more road-oriented. When properly equipped, the Toyota 4Runner can tow up to 5000 pounds.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Toyota 4Runner
- Ford Explorer
- Honda Pilot
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Nissan Pathfinder