The Toyota 4Runner is one of the world’s most popular off-road SUVs, which means that it has to be built with quality. That’s why it’s manufactured in Japan, a country that is known for its high standards of production and manufacturing.
The original Toyota 4Runner was originally based on the Toyota pickup truck and was introduced in 1984. It was a significant departure from the Hilux Surf and Toyota Pickup Truck that preceded it, with a completely new body-on-frame construction design.
The second generation of the 4Runner was a radical redesign that shifted away from the Toyota pickup to a fully integrated one-piece body with an open fiberglass top (similar to the Ford Bronco and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer). This generation was also the first to be available as a 2-door model.
The third generation of the 4Runner was a major redesign that positioned it as a high-end mid-size SUV with off-roading chops. It moved the 4Runner upmarket from the Toyota Highlander and Nissan Pathfinder to compete with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Isuzu Rodeo, Ford Explorer and Nissan Terrano.
The 2004 4Runner remained largely unchanged from its predecessor, but it gained some significant changes in engine and drivetrain performance. A standard LEV-certified 4.0L 1GR-FE V6 and an optional ULEV-certified 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 were added to the range. In addition, a new Toyota VVT-i system was also fitted to the V8 to improve power output and enhance fuel economy.
