Awesome Refinements!
Written: Jun 08 '04
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Pros: Improved ride, creature comforts and safety features. More powerful engine and comparable fuel efficiency.
Cons: The new 4Runner has an adequate tow hitch--but lost the pronounced tow bar.
The Bottom Line: If you are looking for a high-quality SUV with a quiet comfortable ride, buy the '04 4Runner!
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| navajoe77's Full Review: 2004 Toyota 4Runner 4WD |
After purchasing a 2002 4Runner and driving cross-country twice, I came to the conclusion that the ride in a SUV did not have to be so tough...that is when I recently went back to test the new 4Runner style of SUV. I originally purchased the 2002 model because I liked the style and it was the last year before Toyota was to change. Although basically I liked the '02 model...it lacked creature comforts and had an unforgiving ride.
I was reminded of this everyday on my 35-mile ride to work and when I rode with friends who purchased the Toyota Highlander. The Highlander is an excellent AWD vehicle...but I could not get past the wagon-look.
Getting back to the 2004 4Runner, I decided to test drive one after I got use to the new-look. I have folks in my family who drive SUVs from the Suzuki Vitara to the Lexus RS...I still prefer the 4Runner for utility and value. The '04 4Runner has a more powerful engine that gives it an additional pep when needed without giving up fuel efficiency. The ride is head and shoulders above the '02 model and in my opinion is now better than the Highlander. Inside the cabin, there is an on-board MPH, MPG and miles left on your gas tank--all useful especially in today's rising fuel prices. The JBL sound system sounds very good. It has a surround sound option, but I have not used it as I prefer the standard "stereo" set-up. The room inside has increased. The '04 model is a couple inched wider and a few inched longer. Improvements with a wider and longer cabin make huge differences in leg room and side-to-side inside. Front and back side air-bags and a center seat shoulder restraining device makes my wife happy when transporting our children.
My only complaint is the new towing hitch. The prior towing hitch system included a pronounced towing bar. On two occasions in Colorado, I was rear-ended and this towing bar saved me a lot of damage when the offending vehicle had major damage...the new towing system has an adequate tow hitch, but the bar is gone.
All-in-all the '04 4Runner is a tremendous improvement over the very good older 4Runners and a fine choice. The fantastic reputation of Toyota products secures value and reliability for years to come--BUY THIS SUV!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 33,000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2004
Model and Options: SR5 4WD
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Epinions.com ID:
navajoe77
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Reviews written: 3
Trusted by: 0 members
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