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2006 Toyota 4Runner SUV
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What's New?
The 4Runner gets a mild freshening for 2006, with modifications to the grille, headlights/taillights, bumpers, and lower body trim. Each of the three trim levels (SR5, Sport, and Limited) receives individual enhancements inside and out. The stereo now features MP3/WMA compatibility, and options include a rear-seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation system.
Overview
The 4Runner is available in both rear- and four-wheel-drive (4WD) versions. 4WD 4Runners feature a two-speed transfer case with a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential. That may not mean anything to most SUV buyers, but 4WD enthusiasts know what it means (added traction in serious off-road situations). Also standard on 4WD models are Toyota's Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). DAC allows the 4Runner to hold a set speed while descending sharp gradients in 4WD low range, while HAC keeps the vehicle from rolling back when moving up steep road inclines or slippery surfaces. But there's more to the 4Runner than its rough-and-ready hardware. The top-of-the-line Limited model includes a 10-speaker JBL sound system, leather seats that are heated in front, wood interior trim, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.
Standard power comes from a 4.0L V-6 that produces 236 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, and the optionally-available 4.7L, i-Force V-8 produces 260 hp and 306 lb.-ft. of torque. All 4Runners are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. 4Runners can tow between 5,000 and 7,300 pounds, depending on powertrain configuration.
Standard safety equipment on the 4Runner includes anti-lock brakes and Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, which can power or brake individual wheels in order to prevent loss of vehicle control. Also standard is Brake Assist, which applies additional braking power in a panic stop. Side airbags for front passengers as well as side curtain airbags (front and rear) are optional. The available navigation system features a back-up camera which displays images on a 7-inch LCD screen when the vehicle is in reverse.
The Competition
The 4Runner is one of 20 vehicles competing in the Midsize Utility segment. This segment is growing in popularity, compared to the full-size SUV segment, due largely to continued increases in fuel prices.
According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,SM the sales leader in the segment is the Jeep Grand Cherokee (213,584 units delivered in calendar year 2005), followed closely by the Ford Explorer (203,483) and the Chevrolet TrailBlazer (regular length model only), with 163,581 units sold in 2005. The 4Runner, with sales of 103,830, also trailed the Honda Pilot (143,353) and Dodge Durango (115,439).
The 4Runner gets a mild freshening for 2006, with modifications to the grille, headlights/taillights, bumpers, and lower body trim. Each of the three trim levels (SR5, Sport, and Limited) receives individual enhancements inside and out. The stereo now features MP3/WMA compatibility, and options include a rear-seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation system.
Overview
The 4Runner is available in both rear- and four-wheel-drive (4WD) versions. 4WD 4Runners feature a two-speed transfer case with a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential. That may not mean anything to most SUV buyers, but 4WD enthusiasts know what it means (added traction in serious off-road situations). Also standard on 4WD models are Toyota's Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). DAC allows the 4Runner to hold a set speed while descending sharp gradients in 4WD low range, while HAC keeps the vehicle from rolling back when moving up steep road inclines or slippery surfaces. But there's more to the 4Runner than its rough-and-ready hardware. The top-of-the-line Limited model includes a 10-speaker JBL sound system, leather seats that are heated in front, wood interior trim, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.
Standard power comes from a 4.0L V-6 that produces 236 hp and 266 lb.-ft. of torque, and the optionally-available 4.7L, i-Force V-8 produces 260 hp and 306 lb.-ft. of torque. All 4Runners are equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. 4Runners can tow between 5,000 and 7,300 pounds, depending on powertrain configuration.
Standard safety equipment on the 4Runner includes anti-lock brakes and Toyota's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system, which can power or brake individual wheels in order to prevent loss of vehicle control. Also standard is Brake Assist, which applies additional braking power in a panic stop. Side airbags for front passengers as well as side curtain airbags (front and rear) are optional. The available navigation system features a back-up camera which displays images on a 7-inch LCD screen when the vehicle is in reverse.
The Competition
The 4Runner is one of 20 vehicles competing in the Midsize Utility segment. This segment is growing in popularity, compared to the full-size SUV segment, due largely to continued increases in fuel prices.
According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,SM the sales leader in the segment is the Jeep Grand Cherokee (213,584 units delivered in calendar year 2005), followed closely by the Ford Explorer (203,483) and the Chevrolet TrailBlazer (regular length model only), with 163,581 units sold in 2005. The 4Runner, with sales of 103,830, also trailed the Honda Pilot (143,353) and Dodge Durango (115,439).
