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Consumer Test Drive - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 22:50:38 |
| Rating |
 89 ( 2 +2.24% ) | | Author | R. Mascare |
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Description:
Overall Rating:
Comfort Rating:
Performance Rating:
Quality Rating:
Appearance Rating:
Favorite Feature:
2 things: The power rear window and also the ECT Button - Changes the shift points - great for towing.
Least Favorite Feature:
The location of the oil filter. It is difficult to get to without removing the skid plates.
Advice to Buyer:
The depreciation is very low on 4Runners. It would be worthwile to test drive one.
Detailed Review:
I bought a '99 4Runner after my '97 4Runner was totaled. It was struck broadside in the passenger side by a full sized van doing 40+mph and pushed into a tractor trailer. I walked away unhurt except for bruises from the automatic retracting seatbelts and the airbag.
After that experience there was no doubt that I would buy another 4Runner. I believe that the safety features have proven themselves. I loved my '97 4runner and I have come to love my '99. It is wonderful.
The major changes in the '99 from the '97 that I notice are the moving of the cup holders from the middle console in the dash to between the seats and the addition of several more power outlets including one in the rear cargo area.
Towing: The 4Runner tows like a champ. I have towed up to 5,000lbs without any difficulty. I routinely tow a camper (about 2,500lb) and am extremely satisfied with performance. It accelerates quickly and can hold the speed limit on the highway without difficulty, even going up hills. It also stops very well while towing. For comparison I used to tow the same camper with a blazer. It did not do as good a job. I was dissatisfied and traded it in for a '97 4Runner.
Performance: Quite good. The 4Runner steers precisely and doesn't seem to lean into the corners much. Acceleration is pretty good for a SUV. Engine noise is low and it runs smoothly. The ride is a little bumpy, but that's what I like. The 4Runner is not a car! In the snow it handles quite well and has always gotten through. The '99 gets about 19+ mpg which is about 1/2 mpg less than my '97, but the '99 does have the 31' tires.
Also Considered:
1998 Toyota 4Runner
1997 Toyota 4Runner
Vehicle Purchased:
1999 Toyota 4Runner
Reviewer Information:
Name - R. Mascare
Location - Barnhart, Missouri |
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