2018 4Runner Review: Off-Road Beast or Family Adventure Vehicle?

2018 4runner review – Step into the world of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner, where ruggedness meets refinement. From its iconic exterior to its versatile interior, this midsize SUV is ready to conquer any terrain or family adventure.

Prepare yourself for an in-depth exploration of the 4Runner’s capabilities, features, and how it stacks up against the competition. Buckle up and let’s hit the road!

Overview

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that combines rugged off-road capabilities with everyday practicality. It features a powerful V6 engine, a robust body-on-frame construction, and a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. The 4Runner has been a popular choice for adventure enthusiasts and families alike since its introduction in 1984.

As part of Toyota’s lineup, the 4Runner is positioned as a more rugged and off-road-oriented alternative to the Highlander and RAV4 SUVs. It offers a wide range of trim levels, including the SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Limited, each tailored to specific needs and preferences.

Exterior Design

The 2018 4Runner exudes a rugged and off-road-ready appearance, making it a standout in the SUV segment. Its bold exterior design is complemented by a wide stance, muscular fenders, and a prominent grille.The 4Runner is available in five trim levels: SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and Limited.

Each trim level offers unique design elements, such as:

  • -*SR5

    Standard 17-inch alloy wheels, black grille, and halogen headlights

  • -*SR5 Premium

    18-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille, and LED headlights

  • -*TRD Off-Road

    17-inch TRD alloy wheels, blacked-out grille, and off-road suspension

    The 2018 4Runner is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and capable SUV. It offers plenty of space, both for passengers and cargo, and its powerful engine provides ample power for both on-road and off-road driving. If you’re considering a 2018 4Runner, be sure to check out our review of the 2018 Toyota Camry LE transmission as well.

    The Camry is another great option for those looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient sedan. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a variety of features that make it a great value for the price.

  • -*TRD Off-Road Premium

    17-inch TRD alloy wheels, chrome grille, and premium interior features

  • -*Limited

    20-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille, and leather upholstery

Interior Design and Features

The 4Runner’s interior is designed to be spacious and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom for all occupants. The cabin materials are high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable fabrics. Technology features are plentiful, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a premium audio system.

Storage options are abundant, with plenty of cubbies and compartments throughout the cabin.

Interior Features Comparison

The following table compares the interior features of different 4Runner trim levels:| Trim Level | Seating Material | Technology Features | Storage Options ||—|—|—|—|| SR5 | Cloth | 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, premium audio system | Multiple cup holders, center console storage bin, glove box || SR5 Premium | Leather | 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, premium audio system, heated front seats | Multiple cup holders, center console storage bin, glove box, rear seat pockets || TRD Off-Road | SofTex (synthetic leather) | 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, premium audio system, heated front seats | Multiple cup holders, center console storage bin, glove box, rear seat pockets, under-seat storage || TRD Pro | SofTex (synthetic leather) | 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, premium audio system, heated front seats | Multiple cup holders, center console storage bin, glove box, rear seat pockets, under-seat storage, overhead storage console |

Performance and Handling

The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is renowned for its impressive off-road capabilities, making it a formidable choice for adventure enthusiasts. Its powerful engine, rugged suspension, and advanced four-wheel drive system combine to provide exceptional performance in challenging terrain.

Under the hood, the 4Runner boasts a robust 4.0-liter V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers ample power for navigating rugged trails and towing heavy loads. The 4Runner’s suspension system is meticulously engineered to absorb impacts and provide stability, ensuring a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces.

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Four-Wheel Drive System

The 4Runner’s four-wheel drive system, known as Multi-Terrain Select, offers a range of modes to optimize traction and handling in different off-road conditions. These modes include Normal, Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock Crawl, allowing drivers to confidently tackle a variety of terrains.

Performance Data

The 4Runner accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds, while its braking distance from 60 to 0 mph is estimated to be around 130 feet. Fuel economy is rated at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

Professional Reviews

Professional reviewers have praised the 4Runner’s off-road prowess. Car and Drivernoted its “impressive articulation and ground clearance,” while Edmundscommended its “solid body-on-frame construction and robust suspension.” User experiences also attest to the 4Runner’s exceptional handling and driving dynamics, with many owners reporting high levels of satisfaction with its performance on both paved and unpaved roads.

Safety Features: 2018 4runner Review

The 2018 4Runner boasts an array of advanced safety features, making it a highly secure vehicle for both drivers and passengers. It has received excellent crash test ratings and numerous safety awards, solidifying its reputation as a dependable SUV.

Active Safety

The 4Runner is equipped with a suite of active safety features designed to prevent accidents and mitigate potential hazards. These include:

  • -*Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

    Monitors lane markings and warns the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts outside its lane.

  • -*Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

    Uses sensors to detect imminent collisions and automatically applies the brakes to reduce impact severity.

  • -*Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

    Maintains a safe following distance from vehicles ahead, automatically adjusting speed as needed.

  • -*Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM)

    Alerts the driver to vehicles in blind spots, using sensors in the rear bumper.

  • -*Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)

    Monitors for cross-traffic when reversing, providing visual and audible warnings.

Passive Safety

In the event of a collision, the 4Runner offers a comprehensive range of passive safety features to protect occupants:

  • -*High-Strength Steel Body

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    The 4Runner’s frame is constructed from high-strength steel, providing exceptional rigidity and impact resistance.

  • -*Airbags

    The vehicle is equipped with a total of eight airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to minimize injuries in the event of a crash.

  • -*Roll Stability Control (RSC)

    Helps prevent rollovers by applying selective braking and reducing engine power in slippery or unstable conditions.

Driver Assistance

The 4Runner also incorporates various driver assistance features to enhance safety and convenience:

  • -*Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)

    Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline.

  • -*Crawl Control

    Maintains a low, steady speed without driver input, allowing the vehicle to navigate challenging off-road terrain.

  • -*Multi-Terrain Select

    Allows the driver to choose between different driving modes, optimizing traction and performance for various road conditions.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2018 4Runner comes in a wide range of trim levels, each offering a unique combination of features and capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of each trim level, along with its pricing and key features:

SR5

The SR5 is the base trim level of the 4Runner and starts at $34,510. It comes standard with features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, a 6.1-inch touchscreen display, and Toyota Safety Sense P (a suite of active safety features).

SR5 Premium, 2018 4runner review

The SR5 Premium adds features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, a power moonroof, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It starts at $37,040.

TRD Off-Road

The TRD Off-Road is designed for off-road enthusiasts and comes with features such as a locking rear differential, crawl control, and a multi-terrain select system. It starts at $38,145.

TRD Off-Road Premium

The TRD Off-Road Premium combines the off-road capabilities of the TRD Off-Road with the premium features of the SR5 Premium. It starts at $40,695.

Limited

The Limited is the top-of-the-line trim level of the 4Runner and comes with features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, a navigation system, and a premium audio system. It starts at $44,795.

Pros and Cons of Each Trim Level

SR5:Pros: Affordable, good value for money. Cons: Lacks some features found on higher trim levels. SR5 Premium:Pros: More features than the SR5, still relatively affordable. Cons: Not as capable off-road as the TRD models. TRD Off-Road:Pros: Excellent off-road capabilities, unique features for off-roading.

Cons: More expensive than the SR5 and SR5 Premium, may not be necessary for all drivers. TRD Off-Road Premium:Pros: Combines off-road capabilities with premium features. Cons: Most expensive trim level, may not be worth the extra cost for some drivers. Limited:Pros: Most luxurious trim level, comes with all the bells and whistles.

Cons: Most expensive trim level, may not be necessary for all drivers.

Competitors and Comparisons

The 2018 4Runner faces competition from several midsize SUVs in the market. Let’s compare its features, performance, and pricing to its rivals.

Key Competitors

  • Toyota Highlander
  • Honda Pilot
  • Ford Explorer
  • Chevrolet Traverse
  • Kia Sorento

Ending Remarks

2018 4runner review

Whether you’re a seasoned off-road enthusiast or a family seeking adventure, the 2018 4Runner delivers an unparalleled blend of capability, comfort, and style. Its rugged exterior, spacious interior, and impressive safety features make it a formidable choice in the midsize SUV segment.

Remember, the 4Runner is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of adventure, exploration, and the pursuit of the great outdoors. Embrace the spirit of the 4Runner and let it guide you to unforgettable experiences.

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