The Toyota 4Runner, enters the 2012 model year with major audio and connectivity upgrades.Standard for the Limited grade, and optional for all other 4Runner models, a new display-type audio system incorporates today’s most in-demand connectivity features. Those offered are navigation, Toyota Entune™ services, XM Satellite Radio (with 90-day trial subscription), HD Radio with iTunes tagging and text/e-mail-to-speech. The Toyota Entune system is a collection of popular mobile applications and data services, with three years of complimentary access. Once the smart phone is connected to the vehicle using Bluetooth wireless technology or a USB cable, Entune’s features are operated using the vehicle’s controls or, for some services, by voice recognition. Entune offers mobile apps for Bing, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, and Pandora. Entune data services include a fuel price guide, sports scores, stocks, traffic and weather.
The 4Runner 4.0-liter V6 generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque. Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) optimizes torque across the engine’s operating range. Fuel economy ratings rival some car-based SUV-type vehicles at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for 4×2 models (22 mpg highway for 4×4). Maximum towing capacity is 5000 pounds, with 4Runner’s standard integrated tow hitch receiver and wiring harness. A double-wishbone independent front suspension, combined with a variable-flow rack and pinion steering, help give the 4Runner precise control on demanding roads.
Coil springs over gas shocks are used at all four wheels for a comfortable ride and controlled handling. The four-link rear suspension minimizes axle hop and assures a smooth ride for rear seat passengers. The Limited grade comes standard with an X-REAS suspension system that further improves performance, comfort and control. X-REAS automatically adjusts the damping force of shocks when driving over bumpy surfaces, or when cornering. The system uses a center control absorber to cross-link shocks on opposite corners of the vehicle, substantially reducing pitch and yaw by offsetting opposing inputs. With X-REAS the 4Runner corners flatter, smoother, and handles choppy pavement more easily.
The Toyota 4Runner Limited is equipped with a full-time, four-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential and a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. The A-TRAC traction control system is standard equipment on all 4×4 models. The system can distribute driving force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, making terrain irregularities and slippery patches transparent to the driver. All 4Runner 4×4 models feature standard Downhill Assist Control (DAC). This feature augments the low-speed ascending ability of low-range by helping to hold the vehicle to a target speed with no driver intervention. All models also come standard with Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), which provides additional control for off-road driving by helping to hold the vehicle stationary before starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.
