2021 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota mostly fulfills its reputation for building efficient and exceptionally reliable vehicles. Most of their models do well in our testing, thanks to their impressive fuel economy, comfortable rides, quiet cabins, and ease of getting in and out. All of this makes Toyotas among the best options for used vehicles. The brand was a hybrid pioneer, starting with the original Prius. Toyota has evolved and expanded that technology, and most vehicles in its lineup are available as a hybrid. Toyota also sells a number of plug-in hybrids, which were once called Prime but are now simply referred to as Plug-in. The company also knows how to add a dose of excitement into its lineup. The GR86, GR Corolla, and Supra are legit, fun-to-drive sports cars. However, some models we’ve tested have been disappointing. The company’s EV, the bZ4X SUV, is mediocre.

By 2010, almost every mid-sized SUV had moved to a car-based design, but the Toyota 4Runner remained one of the last full-framed, truck-based SUV holdouts on the market. That makes it especially suited to off-roading. Otherwise, the 2010 redesign felt like a step backwards from the previous refined generation. The unsettled ride, mediocre handling, cheap interior, high-step-in, and low ceiling left us unimpressed. Limited trim versions have a sports suspension with somewhat better control, but a stiffer ride. The 4.0-liter V6 engine is powerful, but roars when accelerating. Fuel economy of 18 mpg overall is decent for this brick-shaped SUV. Controls are simple, with big buttons and knobs, but the touch screen is relatively small. A tight third-row seat is optional. Truck-based SUVs are generally known for their towing ability, but the 4Runner's rating isn't appreciably higher than some better-driving, car-based competitors. All 2020 models get the Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) as standard equipment, which includes forward collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Also, all versions get a standard 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.