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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Toyota 4Runner

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Toyota 4Runner

Overview

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2009 Toyota 4Runner Review

By KBB.com Editors

Few SUVs are held in such high regard as the Toyota 4Runner. Generation after generation has come to love this midsize SUV for its near-bulletproof reliability, excellent build quality and strong resale value. Although the 4Runner has grown larger and more luxurious over the years, at its core it remains a versatile and rugged SUV, as comfortable traversing a boulder-strewn desert as a four-lane highway. Still, it is easy to find newer SUV and CUV designs with more interior room, smoother rides and more electronic goodies. Budget-conscious buyers will probably suffer sticker shock, as even the most basic rear-wheel drive 4Runner model starts around $29,500.

You'll Like This Car If...

The 2009 Toyota 4Runner provides ample space for four adults and their gear but, in a pinch, can fit seven people. If you're looking for a rugged, powerful midsize SUV that has a reputation for superb reliability and great off-road manners, the 4Runner should be at the top of your list. It also has some exclusive features not found on other SUVs, such as power rear window that retracts into the rear liftgate.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're one of those people who needs an SUV more for its interior accommodations and sheer size than its ability to leave civilization behind, the Toyota 4Runner may not be the best choice.

What's New for 2009

For 2009, Toyota is offering a new Trail Edition package option for the V6-powered SR5 4WD. Trail Edition 4Runners gain a locking rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), water-resistant seat fabric and a new audio system with a detachable TomTom navigation unit. The system also provides Bluetooth connectivity, iPod integration and satellite radio.

Driving the 4Runner

Driving Impressions To help the driver remain in control under all driving conditions, Toyota has equipped all 4Runners with a feature known as HAC (Hill Start Assist Control). The HAC system prevents...

the 4Runner from rolling backwards when starting to climb a hill from a start. Also standard on all four-wheel-drive 4Runners is the DAC (Downhill Assist Control), which combines the vehicle's brakes with engine braking to avoid unwanted downhill acceleration. Four-wheel-drive models have a Torsen limited-slip center differential which transfers the bulk of the engine's torque to the rear wheels, thus helping the vehicle remain stable in both off-road and slippery situations. These features complement the 4Runner's standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control.

Favorite Features

Rear Back-Up Camera
The 4Runner's rear backup camera option allows you to see objects out of the range of your rearview mirror.

Flip-Up Third-Row Seating
The 4Runner's flip-up third-row seating lets you convert from cargo hauler to people hauler in just seconds.

2009 Toyota 4Runner Details

Interior

The 4Runner's dash is typical Toyota: Handsome, functional and assembled of the finest materials with the tightest tolerances. The seats are wide and tall to better accommodate full-sized adults. There is more headroom, shoulder room and, most importantly, rear legroom than in previous models. Toyota adds the option of third-row seats on SR5 and Limited trims. A rearview backup camera is optional. It's linked to the optional GPS navigation viewscreen and engages when the vehicle is placed in reverse. For vehicles not equipped with navigation, standard cargo area backup mirrors built into the rear pillars provide a low-tech solution to better rear visibility.

Exterior

The 2009 Toyota 4Runner uses a compilation of bulging fender flares, blocky front and rear bumpers and a wide-slat grille to convey its message of stylish off-road capability. Standard rear privacy glass hides valuables from prying eyes, and the back window that rolls down into the liftgate is a real bonus. With coil springs front and rear, available auto-leveling rear air shocks (Limited V8 only) and about nine inches of ground clearance, the 4Runners' off-road capabilities are not in doubt. Dealer-installed options such as a front skid plate, ski attachments for the roof rails and seven-pin to four-pin adapter for towing further add to the 4Runner's rugged image.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 4Runner is available in three trims: SR5, Sport and Limited. Standard features include a V6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), Hill Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, Vehicle Stability Control and traction control, side-curtain airbags, front side airbags, automatic air conditioning, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, fog lights, dual power mirrors, three-in-one audio with MP3-compatible CD player, side running boards, cruise control, tilt wheel, 16-inch alloy wheels and a rear wiper/washer.

Optional Equipment

Options vary by trim and include a V8 engine, four-wheel drive, leather interior, auto-dimming rearview mirror, onboard navigation, rear backup camera, rear DVD entertainment system, JBL audio, upgraded wheels, Trail Edition package, an off-road package and a power glass moonroof. There's also a new Urban Runner package for the Sport trim, which adds the TomTom navigation unit, 18-inch alloy wheels and a number of interior trim upgrades.

Under the Hood

The 4Runner's V6 is more than adequate to move this vehicle with gusto. For those who need to tow a heavy trailer, the V8 makes perfect sense, but it does use more gas.

4.0-liter V6
236 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
266 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21 (2WD), 16/20 (4WD)

4.7-liter V8
260 horsepower @ 5400 rpm
306 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/19 (2WD), 14/17 (4WD)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Toyota 4Runner vehicles for sale near you.

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2009 Toyota 4Runner Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.5

Out of 10

Based on 781 Ratings for the 2003 - 2009 models.

Review this car

Value

9.5/10

Quality

9.6/10
Reliability

9.7/10

Performance

9.5/10
Comfort

9.3/10

Styling

9.4/10

Best car I ever owned

By John (FL) on Saturday, July 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 132,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Everything"

Cons: "None"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I am 68 years old. I owned over 20 cars in my lifetime...this one is the best! I bought it new in '03. A few months ago I bought a new Jeep GC to replace it but I can't let the 4Runner go. I'm sure it will still be around when the Jeep is just a memory."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Nothing less than awesome

By Robin B. (KS) on Friday, July 26, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 160,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "nothing but confident driving experience"

Cons: "exhaust enters back window, drivetrain "thunks""

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I purchased this car used in 2011, with 149k miles on it and have had an outstanding experience with it. I drove it across country, I have driven it in over a foot of snow, I have done windy highway driving at 85mph and I have done stupid amounts of in-town driving. The mpg isn't outstanding but it's a V8, what do you expect? I get better than predicted at highway speeds, about predicted in town (and my average speed is 18 to 22 mph according to the on board computer on an average tank!). I've only experienced two annoyances, an exhaust issue and a drivetrain issue. The exhaust issue happens when I have the back window down partially if I am driving at low speeds. I have to have it either up or down, not in-between, or exhaust comes in. Ew. If I'm driving at least 35-40mph, this is not a problem. Annoying since I do a lot of low-speed driving, but I've perfected the art of up/down. At least it's auto-up, auto-down. Oh well. The another annoyance I had (which I think is finally fixed) was an issue with the drivetrain. The best way I can describe it is a "thunk" - the whole vehicle would lurch slightly a few seconds after I came to a stop and make a small noise. Needless to say, I was terrified my transmission was about to die on my 150k mile new-to-me vehicle. I took it to two different dealers who insisted it was the drive train and told me they would grease it to fix it, only to have the issue return within a few weeks. Dealer #3 actually fixed it. Not sure what they did differently, but it's a year later, and I've still not had any more thunks. I'm happy."

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Awesome SUV except......

By Franka4211 on Thursday, July 11, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 103,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Smooth ride, mtc free vehicle, reliable"

Cons: "Cracking dash board w no warranty"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"Had this 2003 for approx 5 up years. Replaced fluids regularly, and new brakes at 90,000 miles. I had the injectors cleaned at 100,000 mile dealer service . Runs like new. At 100,000 miles I replaced the tires, but the shocks and suspension are still factory. The v6 has a timing chain, so only the 4x4 v8 model needs a timing belt replacement at 100,00 miles. My only complaint....... DASHBOARD cracking.. Most of the 2003-05 models have them, all in the same places....Toyota doesn't warranty the dash. Otherwise, it's just awesome"

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Great vehicle, never lets me down

By Bobcal432 (NE) on Wednesday, May 29, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 88,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Power, comfort, smooth ride, utility, style"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned my 4Runner for almost 2 years and could not be happier with a vehicle. I had my eye on the 4runner for a few years, my brother owns one and he loves it. I did all the research I could and read glowing reviews from many other owners. But I really just loved the look of the 4runner and nothing else stacked up to the features and utility of this truck. I found one on line and had to have it. This SUV is solid, built on a heavy duty steel frame and all of the under carriage is well protected by steel skid plates designed for off road and trail use. The body on frame design is rare in the SUV market today. The engineers at Toyota dont over engineer their vehicles, but rather seem to bring the right amount comfort while keeping the design simple. Everything just work, and thing don't break. I do much of the maintenance on the 4runner myself, oil and fluid changes, nothing has broken down in the 20K miles that I have driven it. The truck is a beast in the snow and off roads, it is easy to kick in the 4WD, and comes with locking differential if it is needed. I have the 4.7 V8 engine which has more than enough power to tow a boat or trailer. Inside is a very comfortable ride. Handling is great, the SUV has a super tight turning radius, the larger tires give it a smooth ride n rough roads, the cabin is quiet and well insulated from the noise outside. The A/C and heat work great and there is a ton of storage in the back. One of the best features is the rear window that rolls down and allows you to haul things that might not fit totally inside the truck."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Best automovile in life

By Loco Loco (NV) on Monday, May 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 130,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 7/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great vehicle to own and drive"

Cons: "No cons thanks God"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Best car I had in my life and I had a few cars before this one The ride is so smooth and no mayor problems at all I have given all the services since we have it purchase out of the floor in upstate N.Y. Viva La Vida Viva Toyota 4 Runner"

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Has been nearly maintenance free

By brwnjj (FL) on Sunday, May 26, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 196,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Reliabilty. Little cost to maintain"

Cons: "Rear passenger leg room"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Nine years of ownership and closing in on 200,000 miles. My 2004 4runner has been practically maintenance free. Looking to get a few more years of driving out of it. Don't know what I will do when the time comes to let it go. No doubt part of the family."

2 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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