New 2014 4Runner Features Rugged Exterior Design to Match Its Authentic Off-Road Heritage

 

Toronto, ON., May 2, 2013 - - For nearly three decades, the Toyota 4Runner mid-size SUV has been a stalwart for off-roading enthusiasts seeking a SUV with rugged, go-anywhere capability. Currently in its fifth-generation, 4Runner continues as one of the few fully capable mid-size SUVs, and the redesigned 2014 4Runner receives a rugged new exterior design, and interior refinements that add comfort and convenience without sacrificing its hallmark performance capability and excellent value.

The 4Runner combines rugged body-on-frame construction with comprehensive suspension technology that yields optimal off-road capability with a smooth ride and comfort more often associated with crossovers.  The 2014 4Runner is available in three grades: a well-equipped, value-driven SR5; top-of-the-line Limited, and a Trail grade for those who want maximum off-road capability.  Optional third-row seats on SR5 and Limited allow for up to seven-person capacity.

4Runner owners will have the choice of part-time 4x4 or a full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking centre differential.  All models are equipped with a powerful 4.0-litre, 270-horsepower V6 teamed to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission and one of the few vehicles that continues offer a transfer case. 

4Runner’s Rugged Exterior Design Projects Its Off-Road Heritage With a Premium Refinement           
The refreshed 4Runner features a redesigned front fascia that conveys a more rugged and aggressive appearance.  This includes a muscular front grille, and edgier smoked headlamps for a more forceful look.  The SR5 and Trail grades feature a colour-keyed grille insert and front bumper that is surrounded by fog lamps set in sharply cut inlays that extend from the headlamps down to the bumper.

The Trail grade features new colour-keyed bumpers and overfenders, and it continues to be distinguished by an aggressive hood scoop and silver painted front and rear bumper accents.  As before, all grades feature a roof rack as standard equipment.   

In addition to the distinctive new grille, the premium Limited’s front design stands apart with a chrome-plated grille insert and chrome front bumper that extends to the fog-lamp bezels. The side molding, roof rack and rear bumper are also chrome trimmed.  The headlamps have also changed from halogen to projector beam, with both the headlamps and redesigned rear combination lamps on all 4Runner grades now featuring LED lamps. 

Both the SR5 and Trail grades will ride on 17-inch alloy wheels with a new wheel-design for both, while the Limited continues to ride on 20-inch alloy wheels, which are now painted black prior to machining to add contrast.  All grades continue to come standard with a full-size spare.

The 2014 4Runner will be available in eight exterior colours that include new additions: Super White; Attitude Black Metallic; Barcelona Red Metallic; and Nautical Blue Metallic.  They will join carryover colours that include: Blizzard Pearl; Classic Silver Metallic; Magnetic Gray Metallic; and Black.
 
New Interior Styling Has a refined style with the Comfort expected of a Mid-size SUV    
The 4Runner exterior updates are complemented by touches of refinement on the inside.  Both the SR5 and Trail grade add standard Soft Touch door trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather shift knob provide a premium feel and atmosphere.

The SR5 receives a new bright and highly visible Optitron instrument panel that houses speedometer, tachometer, voltage, fuel and coolant temperature gauges, plus a multi-information display that offers multiple functions.  An Eco-Driving feedback system allows the driver to monitor fuel consumption in real time.  On 4Runner Trail, an overhead console within easy reach organizes the off-road control switches into one location.  A compass indicator adds functionality.  A manually controlled air conditioning system is standard on SR5 and Trail grades; the Limited features an automatic dual-zone climate-control system.
 
For second-row passengers, a sculpted front seat-back shape provides additional knee space.  The second-row seats, which include a centre armrest, individually recline up to 16 degrees in four steps for relaxing passenger comfort.  The 40/20/40 second-row seat configuration also has a one-touch walk-in function, making access to the third row easier. Third-row seating is available on SR5 and Limited grades and features a roomy, supportive seating area. 

The SR5 comes standard with comfortable fabric-trimmed seating available Graphite or Black.  SofTex seats are available on the SR5 grade and standard on the Trail grade offering a soft, rich feel.  New for 2014, the SR5 adds a standard eight-way power driver seat.

The Limited comes standard with a leather-trimmed interior with new ventilated driver and front passenger seats in Black and a new Redwood colour.  Front seats are also heated with eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support and four-way power-adjustable passenger seat.  Both front seats are now standard with memory settings. 
 
Powerful 4.0-litre V6 Helps Take 4Runner Anyplace, Anytime
The 4Runner 4.0-litre 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.   Maximum towing capacity is 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) and all vehicles feature an integrated tow-hitch receiver and wiring harness as standard equipment.  Fuel consumption ratings will be available closer to launch. 
 
4Runner Balances Full Off-Road Capability with Smooth Around-town Handling
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 maximizes off-road axle articulation, while providing a smooth ride for rear-seat passengers on and off pavement.

The Limited grade comes standard with an X-REAS suspension system that further improves performance, comfort and control.  With X-REAS, 4Runner corners flatter, smoother, and handles choppy pavement more easily.  X-REAS automatically adjusts the damping force of shocks when driving over bumpy surfaces or when cornering.  The system uses a centre control absorber to cross-link shocks on opposite corners of the vehicle, substantially reducing pitch and yaw by offsetting opposing inputs. 

The 4Runner SR5 and Trail models have a standard two-speed, part-time four-wheel-drive system with neutral position, maximizing fuel efficiency when a 4x4 configuration isn’t needed.  The 4Runner Limited is equipped with a full-time, four-wheel-drive system with a locking centre differential and a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. 

The A-TRAC traction control system is standard equipment on all models.  The system can distribute driving force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, making terrain irregularities and slippery patches virtually transparent to the driver.  An electronic-locking rear differential is standard on the Trail grade.

The Trail grade is designed to maximize off-road performance with superior approach and departure angles, high ground clearance, and an array of functional upgrades for the most demanding active outdoor enthusiast.  The Trail grade offers a standard Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS).  KDSS significantly improves terrain-following ability by dynamically disconnecting stabilizer bars to allow for more axle travel, and better suspension articulation in slow, difficult terrain.

Toyota’s Crawl Control (CRAWL) feature is standard on the Trail grade.  The system helps maintain an appropriate speed to keep the vehicle under control and minimizes the load on drivetrain and suspension components.

With the transfer case shifted into low range, CRAWL regulates engine speed and output (along with braking force), to propel the vehicle forward or in reverse at one of the five driver-selectable low-speed settings.  This allows the driver to maintain focus on steering over rough level ground or steep grades without having to also modulate the throttle or brake pedal.
 
The Trail grade also features a Multi-Terrain Select system that dials in wheel-slip control to match the terrain.  In loose terrain such as mud and sand, more-than-normal wheel slip is permitted, allowing wheel-spin to work in the vehicle’s favor.  On bumpy moguls, or solid rock, wheel slip is minimized and the system acts more like a limited slip differential.  The Mogul setting is for any extremely uneven terrain, such as V-ditches, slopes, and ridges, uphill or down.

All models 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.  All 4Runner models feature standard Downhill Assist Control (DAC).  This feature augments the low-speed ascending ability of low-range by helping to hold the vehicle, allowing time for the driver to a target speed with no driver intervention. 
 
Versatility and Convenience Provide Comfort and Utility
An array of convenience features and versatile seating configurations provide the 2014 4Runner with ample passenger comfort and utility.  Fold-flat second-row seats provide a level load floor in the 4Runner, and it is not necessary to remove the headrests to fold the seats flat.  The available third-row seat is split 50/50 and folds flat.  The seats can be folded from the side or at the rear, using separate one-touch levers.  With this arrangement, more cargo space is available without removing seats, and longer items can be conveniently carried.
 
A Smart Key system featuring keyless entry with push-button start is standard on the Limited grade.  The system allows the driver to unlock or start the vehicle by carrying the keyless remote.  The cargo door window has jam control, like the moonroof and power side windows. 
A pull-out cargo deck is standard on the Trail model; it is capable of carrying up to 200 kg (440 lbs) to make loading and unloading heavy items easier and to provide when the vehicle is parked or at a campsite.

All 4Runner models come standard with a 120V outlet and two additional 12V outlets.
 
A front and rear clearance sonar system is standard on Limited models, and a rear-view backup camera is now standard on all 4Runner models.  The system displays in the audio screen, increasing visibility at the rear of the vehicle. 
 
New Audio Systems Include Standard Multimedia System
New for 2014 on the SR5 grade 4Runner is the Display Audio system, which includes an AM/FM/MP3 CD player with eight speakers, integrated SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio (includes 90-day trial subscription), USB port with iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth^® hands-free phone capability and music streaming.

AVN audio is available on the SR5 grade and standard on the Trail grade.  This multimedia audio system provides all the same functionality and features as the standard Display Audio system found on the SR5 grade with the addition of on-board navigation and SMS text to speech functions.

 

Standard on the Limited grade is a Premium JBL Audio system, which incorporates today’s most in-demand connectivity features.  It includes the Display Audio system, a JBL^® premium sound system with navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (with a 90-day trial subscription), and 15 speakers.  The navigation system includes a large seven-inch monitor.

Standard on all audio systems is a unique “party mode” audio setting that raises bass response and shifts sound balance to the rear of the vehicle for enjoyment while the vehicle is parked or at campground.  Party mode is in addition bolstered by rear liftgate-mounted speakers, which function with or without party mode selected.  The pole antenna has been dropped in favor of a new in-glass antenna.

Toyota’s Exclusive Star Safety System, Eight Standard Airbags
The 4Runner features Toyota’s standard Star Safety System™ that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST) brake-override system.  VSC helps the driver to ensure control by compensating for front and rear wheel slip.  The system uses selective braking and modulated engine output to help keep the vehicle in line with the driver’s steering inputs.  The four-wheel ABS with EBD provides the 4Runner with optimal brake proportioning, regardless of vehicle load.

Eight standard airbags includes front, side-mounted and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and side-curtain airbags for the second and third rows.  All 2014 4Runners have active headrests for driver and passenger, and three-point seat belts for all seats.

About Toyota Canada Inc.

Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) is the exclusive Canadian distributor of Toyota, Lexus and Scion cars, SUVs and trucks. Toyota is the first full-line manufacturer to make all of the elements of the Star Safety System standard on every vehicle starting in 2011. The Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). TCI’s head office is in Toronto, with regional offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Halifax and parts distribution centres in Toronto and Vancouver.