The 2012 Toyota 4Runner was made for people with an active lifestyle. Its design is made to be a light off road alternative to the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Explorer.
Key Features
The Toyota 4Runner has a 4.0 liter V6 engine with a five speed automatic transmission. It offers 270hp with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. This vehicle will get you 17 mpg while driving in the city and 23 mpg while driving on the highway.
Changes for 2012
The 4Runner adds SiriusXM satellite radio, hands free phone, and a USB port with iPod connectivity. Toyota has an Entune multimedia system which has Pandora, Bing, and other services to ensure you are connected while on the go.
What We Like
The 4Runner is comfortable to drive in and comes with easy to use audio controls. The technology in the 4Runner is simple to connect without having to consult the owner’s manual. The sliding rear cargo deck is a nice feature that lets you easily grab your gear from the back.
What Concerns Us
If you are looking to carry more passengers, more cargo, or need to tow something over 5,000 pounds, then you would be better off with a GMC Acadia or a Ford Explorer. The 4Runner can also be slow to respond in parking lots or other places that require tight turns.
Available Models
The Toyota 4Runner comes in the SR5, Trail, and Limited model. The SR5 has a 4.0 liter V6 engine with a five speed automatic transmission. It has 270hp and a fuel economy of 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The Trail models has the same engine, transmission, horse power, and fuel economy, but comes in an all-wheel drive version and does not have heated seats. The Limited has a 4.0 liter V6 with a five speed automatic transmission. It offers 17 mpg when driving in the city and 23 mpg when driving on the highway.
Major Recalls
The 4Runner was recalled in 2015 due to the possibility of the exhaust tips burning people if they are near the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle was recalled in 2013 because the passenger seat sensing system may not operate properly. If it is not calibrated right, the airbags may not deploy or could deploy improperly. The 4Runner was also recalled in 2012 because of a malfunction in the remote engine starter module. This can cause the stability control and antilock braking to be lost.
Common Issues
Common consumer complaints include mildew forming under the gas filler door, vibration while idling, and the brakes slipping.
