The third generation of Toyota 4Runners at car dealerships serving Garden Grove CA like Toyota of Orange is a good example of how Toyota has great vision and imagination. Many suppliers serving Garden Grove car dealers applaud Toyota for bringing this icon to the forefront.
Without it, car manufacturers would not have been able to shape the archetypal SUV model that we see on the roads today.
The car dealerships serving Garden Grove CA tell us that Toyota debuted the first generation 4Runner in 1984, so it has been almost 40 years since this vehicle graced our roads. Not many people know that the first-ever designed 4Runner was a compact SUV model. This is surprising since today the vehicle has been through many big and small changes throughout its five generations, the fifth one being the most recent.
Starting off as a truck-based compact utility vehicle to today’s modern mid-size SUV, the Toyota 4Runner has gone through leaps and bounds to be the vehicle we currently know and love. The car dealerships serving Garden Grove CA have a lot more to say about this unique vehicle, so keep on reading.
What Are The 4Runner’s Best Years?
Here is a list of all of the generations that have been based on their make, reliability, durability, popularity, and how the public perceives them in the future. From great to greatest, let’s start off with the 4Runner that came in the fifth position.
5. First Generation (1984–1989)
Obviously, when we compare it with what we have today, the first generation 4Runners have a basic performance and a simple design. While the design is classic and durable, this model has a lot to compete with. Because we are so spoilt for choice with all the other generations that have come out since the first generation has to settle for fifth place.
4. Fourth Generation (2003–2009)
The fourth-generation had great tech and comfort features which made it a very competitive vehicle at the time. However, it can’t quite compare with the other 4Runner models on our list.
3. Fifth Generation (2010-present)
The fifth-generation is thought to be the most efficient road SUV. When this 4Runner launched, customers were quick to notice the crucial changes in the vehicle’s comfort, off-road capability, level of luxury, and on-road performance.
2. Second Generation (1990—1995)
This model was known for being a crossbreed model since it was somewhere between a truck and an SUV. Many consider that after this model came out, the 4Runner began to look more like an SUV.
1. Third Generation (1996—2002)
Toyota hit the nail on the head with its third generation. The remodeling of this vehicle became one of the best that they ever produced. It had an all-new body layout and engine upgrades, and many commented on how this 4Runner was a vehicle that was ahead of its time.
Why Is The Third Generation So Special?
The third-generation Toyota 4Runner wins, in our book, for the best generation of the 4Runner model. The third generation used to be known as the Toyota Hilux Surf in Japan. If you are a little puzzled and wondering why this model was named after a pick-up truck, then you should be informed that the chassis of the first model was based on the Hilux pickup truck.
When designing the third generation 4Runners, Toyota’s chief designer, Masaaki Ishiko, remodeled the vehicle with considerable changes. These changes included an altogether new and bigger body frame with a wheelbase of 1053.3 inches, which was no longer based on the pickup-truck.
This refitting provided the 4Runner with its own identity without having to let go of its amazing off-road capabilities. The Inline 4 cylinder motor mechanism was equipped with two options which the customers could choose from: a 2.7-liter 3RZ-FE or a 3.4 liter 5VZ-FE. Regardless of the option, the buyer went for, both had a power output of 150 HP and 183 HP, respectively.
Also, the interiors got a facelift, giving the insides of the 4Runner more cargo room and adding a dash of ergonomics since the controls had to move around. Additionally, the engineers put more focus on safety features because they added a couple of components such as reinforced doors, ABS, and dual airbags.
Even though all of these features were not necessities (since it was not an industrial requisite for car manufacturers to provide the vehicles with these functionalities) Toyota added them, making the third generation 4Runner far ahead of its time.
What Are The Pros And Cons?
Although nothing can compete with the 4Runner’s off-road capabilities, there are some small things to consider when thinking about purchasing the model.
Some customers feel that the SUV isn’t suitable for commuters because they stand out and can be intimidating on the road. This won’t be an issue if being big and flashy doesn’t bother you. The 4Runner is a big vehicle, so if you need something for everyday use, you may find it difficult to get into cramped parking spaces. Furthermore, the 4Runner takes its time to pick up the pace. It isn’t a sports car, and it isn’t trying to be, but if you are looking for a zippy vehicle, the 4Runner isn’t the car for you!
Now it’s time for all the positives that will be sure to outweigh the negatives. It is a big car and it isn’t planning on going on a diet any time soon, so, if you like to ride high and feel like you own the road, the third generation 4Runner is definitely right up your alley.
Although the V6 engine takes its time to catch up with the rest of the traffic, it is still a very reliable Toyota. If it ever does have any issues (which is very rare), it is easy to repair and isn’t too costly. Furthermore, it has the best resale value that other SUVs on the market can’t compare to.
Everyone should experience driving a 4Runner at least once in their lifetime. There is a sixth-generation that is coming very soon, which should be with us in 2022. We can’t help to conceal our excitement to see what Toyota does to this beast of a road machine!