By Asian Journal Auto Editor

2018_Toyota_TRDPro_4Runner_For 2018, the Toyota 4Runner arrives in a number of different variants – base, SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro and Limited trim levels. For now there is only one engine choice – a 4.0-liter V-6 rated at 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Transmission is via the 4Runner’s 5-speed automatic transmission with on demand 4WD. The base, SR5, and TRD gets a part-time system with manual transfer case. The hard-core TRD PRO (As tested) is the ultimate 4Runner with its plethora of high-end premium after market and Toyota off- Road equipment, with such items as a locking rear differential and a multi-terrain management system with ultra-low speed crawl-control.

We tested a wonderful looking Cavalry Blue painted 2018 4Runner TRD PRO  equipped with the expensive  extra cost TRD Off Road package at $7,480 comprising of: Lever-type 4WD Selector, 4-Wheel Crawl Control (CRAWL), Multi-Terrain Select, Rear Differential Lock , Automatic Disconnecting Differential, TRD-tuned Front Springs, TRD Bilstein High-Performance Shocks with Rear Remote Reservoirs, 31.5″ Nitto Terra Grappler All-Terrain Tires, 17″ Matte Black Aluminum Wheels with TRD Centre Caps, Multi-terrain ABS , TRD Logo on Front Headrests, Black Seats with Red Stitching, Optitron Instrumentation Gauges, Black End Caps for Roof Rails, Hood Scoop, Unique Heritage TOYOTA Grille, Black TRD Pro Badging on C-Pillar and Tailgate, Black Accents on Front and Rear Bumpers, TRD-Stamped Aluminum Front Skid Plate, TRD Pro Shift Knob, and TRD Pro Badged Floor mats. Note, that this package deletes the 3rd Row Seats. I have to say the black wheels, detailing, unique grille, and the high tough stance has everyone gawping at our tester! Or was it that rather fetching Cavalry blue paint?

The interior of the 4Runner’s is accessed by a high step, but a running board eases egress and exit. The cabin has a chunky attractive in a more macho, masculine style. There are logically arranged off-road switches and knobs in a neat square –dominated design theme. There is an overhead console, and steering wheel controls access audio and Bluetooth functions. With the square, almost upright windshield giving a commanding view it feels like a traditional retro SUV, but with all the modern creature comforts. The 4Runner’s second row is roomy with a backrest that adjusts 16 degrees for rake. The second row folds also folds. Meanwhile the cargo area on the 5-seat models offer a handy slide-out loading compartment

On the road, the 4Runner’s ladder frame chassis tied to coil spring independent front/solid axle rear suspension setup suspension is far superior off- road than on- road in my opinion. While the TRD Off-Road models offer as an option a sophisticated Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System that uses hydraulics to either  tighten or loosen the suspension system for on or off-road performance. On road performance is a little jiggly- nothing new here! The 4Runner has a tow rating of 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs), with fuel economy at 14.3 L/100 km city and 12.0 highway. As usual the basic safety package is very good, with stability control, anti-lock brakes and eight airbags including front knee airbags. A rearview camera is standard across the line, as is Toyota’s concierge-style Safety Connect system that can automatically call police if the airbags are deployed. All in all, the current generation Toyota 4Runner represents a very compelling package if a no-nonsense traditional SUV with excellent off road performance is what you need. The price of the TRD off road package is rather pricy, but well worth it as it is all professional grade equipment. With excellent resale value included, and bulletproof build and reliability, you can expect the 4Runner to just keep on going for ever. Highly recommended.

 

2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road package MSRP $45,440.00. Options $7,480.00. Final price with  options freight and PDI $54,832