Description:
The Toyota 4Runner has broken its previous annual sales record for the last three years in a row. Redesigned from the ground up in 1996, 4Runner sales will exceed 100,000 units for the first time ever in calendar 1997. For 1998, the third-generation Toyota 4Runner combines backwoods ruggedness with in-town comfort and enters its third year with numerous interior upgrades.
Dial-type heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls, coat hooks on the rear seat assist grips and an additional power outlet in the rear cargo area are a few of the small touches which make 4Runner more accommodating.
The 4Runner's audio systems feature new faceplates and the Limited grade now includes a Premium ETR/CD as standard equipment. A lighted, covered passenger-side vanity mirror is now standard equipment on the Limited grade and optional on SR5 models. The 4Runner's steering wheel also features a new, four-spoke design, which is color-keyed on Limited models and black on all other grades.
Available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, 4Runner offers three trim levels: 4Runner, SR5 and Limited. Each trim level can be powered by either a four-cylinder or V6 engine coupled with a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's automatic transmission is electronically linked to the engine control computer to momentarily retard engine timing while changing gears, ensuring smooth shifting.
The four-cylinder, two-wheel drive model is the 4Runner's value-leader. Powered by a 2.7-liter, 16-valve, dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder engine with balance shafts, it produces 150 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 177 lb./ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
The four-valve combustion chamber combined with independent intake runners creates an exceptional blend of fuel efficiency and power across the rpm range. City/highway EPA mileage estimates are 19/24 mpg with a five-speed manual transmission and 20/24 mpg with four-speed automatic transmission for two-wheel drive models. Four-wheel drive models deliver an estimated 17/21-mpg with five-speed manual and 19/22 mpg with four-speed automatic transmissions.
Additional power can be found in 4Runner's rugged V6 powerplant. This 3.4-liter, 24-valve, dual-overhead cam engine is designed to boost power in the higher rpm ranges, while providing the low-rpm torque necessary for towing and off-road use. Long independent intake runners and a large capacity air cleaner maximize the engine's performance, helping to deliver 183 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 217 Ib./ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Two-wheel drive models deliver an estimated city/highway EPA fuel economy of 17/21 mpg. Four-wheel drive models provide 16/19 mpg when paired with a five-speed manual transmission and 17/20-mpg with four-speed automatic.
Toyota's 4WDemand shift-on-the-fly engagement system comes standard on all four-wheel drive 4Runner models, enabling the part-time four-wheel drive system to be engaged at speeds up to 50 mph. A One-Touch Him switch, available exclusively on 4Runner Limited models, makes shifting into high-4WD as easy as a touch of a button. All four-wheel drive 4Runners are equipped with a two-speed transfer case.
Off-road enthusiasts will find improved low-traction performance available through a locking rear differential, optional on all four-wheel drive models (except SR5 models equipped with automatic transmission). Sporting a 4.3:1 differential gear ratio, this feature locks the rear wheels together while in low-4WD, forcing both wheels to turn together.
4Runner successfully balances on-road comfort and off-road performance. Both the suspension and frame were designed to provide the long wheel travel and damping characteristics required by off-road conditions, as well as on-road smoothness and control. A coil-spring, double-wishbone front suspension features a closed structure for the lower arm. This design gives added strength while minimizing unsprung weight. Low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers cushion 4Runner's passenger cabin from the occasional bumps in the road, with stroke-dependent shock absorbers accompanying models with P265 tires.
The four-link coil spring rear suspension also utilizes low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers for optimum ride comfort. Front and rear stabilizer bars are incorporated into all models. The compliant suspension works well with 4Runner's rigid frame for maximum performance. A wheelbase of 105.3 inches contributes to ride comfort as well as impressive rear seat legroom. The frame is reinforced throughout, while dual front suspension crossmembers enhance 4Runner's ride and braking performance.
Braking is responsive, thanks to power-assisted, 12-inch ventilated front disc brakes with 12-inch rear drums. Models equipped with the P265 tire package feature 13-inch front ventilated discs and 13-inch rear drums. All V6 4Runners feature a four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) as standard equipment while four-cylinder models offer it as an option. This ABS system automatically switches off when the optional locking rear differential is engaged, since that feature does not allow the rear wheels to rotate independently of each other.
The '98 4Runner features three-point ALR/ELR seat belts in all outboard positions (except for driver's ELR-only seat belt) and a dual front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS). Additional safety features include side-door impact beams, a two-point non-retracting seat belt in the rear center seat, center high mount stop lamp, and child protector rear door locks.
A rugged exterior houses a spacious interior with plenty of creature comforts. Full cut-pile carpeting, front four-way adjustable fabric bucket seats and rear split folding fabric bench seat successfully blend comfort and utility. A driver-side footrest, dual front and rear cup holders, a center console storage box, and an additional power outlet in the rear cargo area make 4Runner convenient to use as well. Additional amenities include full door trim with armrests, color-keyed instrument panel, power rear window, tinted glass, headlight-on warning chime, spring-back antenna, day/night rearview mirror, dual-fabric sunvisors with passenger vanity mirror, remote fuel door and hood releases, cigarette lighter, five entry/exit assist grips, and intermittent mist cycle windshield wipers.
The SR5 grade adds several key features to upgrade its interior. A lighting package featuring an illuminated ignition key ring, ash tray and glove box light is included as standard equipment. Front map lights, power mirrors and door locks, a digital clock, tilt steering wheel, and variable intermittent front and rear windshield wipers round out the list of features.
The 4Runner Limited adds still more features, giving it a heightened sense of comfort and convenience. Leather seating surfaces with a leather covered steering wheel, power driver's and passenger bucket seats, power windows, cruise control, and floor mats are included as standard equipment. The Limited edition also offers superb sound quality as a Premium ETR/CD with six speakers, power antenna and diversity anteTen exterior colors are available with coordinating interiors of either Gray or Oak.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month limited warranties are available and cover powertrain components for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. |
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