2015 Toyota 4Runner

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner is available in six trim levels, each of which differs from the other by the features that they possess. It falls in a price range that starts from $33,210 for the base variant and goes all the way up to $43,620 for the top-of-the-line Limited trim. As standard, it comes equipped with features like cloth upholstery, cruise control, and a rearview camera. While 2WD is standard on the SR5 and SR5 Premium trims, 4WD is available on all trims either as optional or standard.

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Amongst the various trim levels, we recommend opting for the 2015 Toyota Land Cruiser Trail variant which adds a number of standard specifications like driving mode selector, better 17-inch alloy wheels, and a crawl control function. The availability of a standard 4-wheel drivetrain ensures all-season durability and with no change in powertrain, it continues to be a powerful performer.

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner makes use of a 4.0L V6 engine that produces 270hp and 278lb.-ft of torque. It is married to a 5-speed automatic transmission unit and transfers power to either two or all four wheels of the SUV. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and can cross the quarter-mile mark in 16 seconds, which is quick considering its dimensions.

In terms of drivability, the SUV feels comfortable and supple. Its mammoth dimensions do not cause a bearing on its maneuverability and it can move over uneven surfaces with ease ensuring that passengers on the inside are not jolted. While each variant boasts off-roading capabilities, the 2015 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is specifically designed for off-roading with its designated wheels and new shock absorbers.

When compared to direct rivals, all three SUVs are channeled as 4WD variants and make use of a V6 engine to power themselves. However, they differ in the transmission system. Both the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2015 Ford Explorer produce 290hp and are almost similarly rated in torque. While the performance figures for the Ford are not known, the Jeep takes 6.7 seconds to the 60 MPH mark and 15.2 seconds in the quarter-mile run.

Even with all its strengths, the 2015 Toyota 4Runner manages lower efficiency than its competitors. It is rated at 17 MPG in the city, 21 MPG on the highway, and 18 MPG during combined driving. Its fuel tank, however, is considerably sized and allows it to cover around 391 and 483 miles in the city and on the highway, respectively.

In the segment, the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2015 Ford Explorer manage similar efficiency of 19 MPG and are a notch above the Toyota. While the former sports the most voluminous tank in the segment of 24.6-gallons, the latter can hold 18.6-gallons, only. By managing higher efficiency and lesser trips to the fuel tank, the Jeep manages the highest range in the segment covering 418 and 590 miles in the city and on the highway, respectively.

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner’s interiors feel adequately upmarket, however, the use of hard-touch plastics through the dashboard can upset some buyers. But as one moves up the trim ladder, inclusions like leather upholstery and wooden inlays improve the comfort level and aesthetic appeal of the cabin. Irrespective of the materials used, the design strategy of the cabin reflects practicality and the availability of a number of buttons and knobs eases usability.

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner can seat 5 or 7 passengers depending on the configuration one opts for. However, the third row of seats is optional and one will have to pay extra dollars to get the SUV equipped with them. All seats feel supportive and provide adequate comfort. Depending on the trim level, they also feature heating and ventilation options. The most lovable aspect of the cabin, however, is that it does not compromise on outward visibility even by an inch.

In comparison, the 2015 Ford Explorer is the only SUV that can seat seven passengers as standard and also has maximum space on offer. In terms of cargo capacity, however, it is the Toyota that leads the segment at 87.9 cubic feet, followed by the Explorer and 2015 Grand Cherokee managing trunk volumes of 80.7 and 68.3 cubic feet, respectively.

• Alarm
• Back-Up Camera
• Cruise Control
• Vehicle Anti-Theft System
• Fog Lamps
• Auto-Off Headlights
• Luggage Rack (Optional)
• Remote Engine Start (Optional)
• Adjustable Steering Wheel

How intuitive is the infotainment system of the 2015 Toyota 4Runner?

The infotainment system on offer with the 2015 Toyota 4Runner makes use of a standard touchscreen available with all trim levels. It gets connected to a standard 8-speaker sound system and there is also an option premium system available with the higher-level trims. Depending on the variant you opt for, the Entune System which is typical to the brand provides a number of functions and also supports navigation on all except the SR5 and Trail trims. Some other salient infotainment features include:

• AM/FM Stereo
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• CD Player
• HD Radio
• MP3 Player
• Auxiliary Audio Input

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner has not lost its charm even after being on the market for long. It still looks fresh and brawny and has an undeniable road presence, thanks to its mammoth dimensions. While the front and rear lights do look subtle as per the SUV’s aura, they help in breaking the aggressive and muscular undertone. The front grille with its aero vents helps improve design and performance and the 17-inch alloy wheels seem and work fine for the vehicle.

In its dimensions, the 2015 4Runner is the lightest SUV weighing 4,675 lbs. It is 190.2 inches long and sports the shortest wheelbase of 109.8 inches. Being the tallest in the segment measuring 71.5 inches, the Toyota offering sports the highest clearance from the ground of 9.6 inches, which makes off-roading an easy and everyday task.

In comparison, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the heaviest car in the segment at 4875 while the Ford Explorer weighs 4697 lbs. The Explorer is both the longest and widest car in the segment at 197.1 and 78.9 inches. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has the longest wheelbase in the segment at 114.8 inches.

Some of the salient exterior features include:

• Exhaust tips
• Roof Rails
• Fog Lamps
• Running Boards
• Rear Spoiler

The 2015 Toyota 4runner extends the brand’s value of safety and reliability and its 4-star NHTSA rating is evidence of the fact. It comes equipped with basic standard features like electronic stability control, front and rear airbags, and daytime running lights. It also makes use of 4-wheel ABS and 4-wheel disc brakes for improved braking performance. Some of its other standout safety features include

• Anti-theft Alarm System
• Brake Assist
• Child Safety Locks
• Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
• Front Tow Hooks
• Traction Control
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The 2015 Toyota 4Runner strives hard to make its presence felt in a competitive segment. However, since its competitors outperform it in a number of aspects, it loses credibility to rank as the first choice for many buyers. Though decent, it is slower and less efficient when directly compared to its competitors, and with a cramped optional third-row seat, it feels a tad bit underwhelming. However, it does sport the largest trunk in the segment and in its design looks sublime with an adequately luxuriant cabin. But the final barrier in its likability is its higher price and taking into consideration its MSRP, we recommend looking out for other options in the segment before finalizing a buying decision.