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2003 Toyota 4Runner

Date: 7 March 2003	Miles: 6,272
Since its arrival in December, this all-new 2003 Toyota 4Runner has been driven to the extremes. From unexpected icy trips to the southland, to Chicago and back during the worst snow storms in a decade, the 4Runner has managed 6,272 miles without pause, and done so with a level of comfort the previous 4Runner never dreamed of. Toyota has transformed 4Runner from a rugged, but out-of-date mid-size SUV, to a totally modern people mover that can still conquer the elements. The available 4.7-liter V-8 also makes it among the most robust, yet quietest, in its class. Even with the V-8, fuel economy is acceptable at 16.5 miles per gallon. We do think some interior controls are awkward. The rotary look, but push to operate, climate controls are not intuitive. The cruise control stalk is also poorly placed. And while we understand the safety concerns, not being able to roll up the power rear hatch glass with the key fob is a pain. Still, small pickings for what is otherwise an impressive 2003 Toyota 4Runner.
Date: 16 May 2003	Miles: 10,000
Our Toyota 4Runner has been running. Nearly 10,000 miles in less than 4 months. A lot of time was spent driving up and down the East Coast, and just getting around in the winter shows. This is an extremely comfortable, quiet and useful SUV, a quantum leap over its predecessor. Despite its height, it's pretty easy to get into and out of. The running boards could be wider for a surer grip, however. Mileage is exactly what we expected from its 245-horsepower V-8 at 17.0 miles per gallon. EPA ratings are 15 and 19. Yes, if you want robust power for towing or going off-road, you have to pay for it.
Date: 27 June 2003	Miles: 11,964
We waited for a long time for the Toyota 4Runner to improve, but the all-new 2003 model goes way beyond what was expected. All the rough edges of the previous vehicle are long gone. Yet, the 4Runner maintains the ability to tackle virtually every off-road venue with confidence. This is the first V-8 4Runner, so power is abundant. But the 4.7-liter is also fairly thirsty. 17.4 miles per gallon after 10,000 miles and 6 months of mixed driving. However, in pure highway use, it jumps to nearly 23. Being a Toyota, quality is impeccable. So our only wants on this Sport model revolve around packaging. The second row seat is still tighter in leg room than primary competitors, and there is no third seat option. But for a truck-based, full-frame, true off-road SUV, the 2003 4Runner is more than a total redesign, it's almost a revelation.
Date: 19 September 2003	Miles: 16,500
By now you know how much we also are enjoying this all-new 2003 Toyota 4Runner. It is a huge step into the modern mid-size SUV world from its predecessor, all while retaining its near legendary off-road capabilities. On the other hand, highway driving comfort is vastly improved. However, we do think for $35,000 it could have power adjustments for the driver's seat. And where are the sun visor vanity mirrors? Seems like small things to omit given the intense SUV competition. Fuel economy from the 4.7-liter 235 horsepower V-8 is a bit better than some competitors. 17.1 miles per gallon after 8 months and 16,500 miles. So while some SUVs may do certain things better and have a few more features for the money, none delivers a better combination of all-terrain capabilities, highway driving comfort, and total reliability, than the Toyota 4Runner.
Date: 26 December 2003	Miles: 22,000
It has been 12 months since we began our long term test on this 2003 Toyota 4Runner Sport V-8 4X4, and we're sorry to see it end. As the all-new design of an SUV icon, we expected a lot of the new 4Runner, and it delivered even more. Besides the bullet-proof quality, a Toyota given, the new 4Runner impressed us as being kinder to occupants in room and ride, no more rough edges, without giving up any of its near legendary 4X4 reputation. After nearly 22,000 miles, our staff raved about everything from its stability in cross winds, to its ability to trudge through high water and snow. Fuel economy from the 4.7-liter 235 horsepower V-8 ended up at a reasonable 17.1 miles per gallon. If there is any negative about the 4Runner, it's that for $35,000 it lacks small touches like a power driver's seat and sun visor mirrors. But we doubt missing details like that will stop anyone from buying a 4Runner. And the 2004 edition adds an optional third row seat. So, in the end, the Toyota 4Runner is a fine SUV at almost any price.