2006 Toyota 4Runner

For the most part, SUV's are about as smooth and refined as a wheelbarrow... and they drive like crud. They're all designed to carry a bunch of people and their crud. But since they drive like crud, and they're designed to haul crud, why not just buy the wheelbarrow?

Most SUV's that I've driven lack the refinement and smoothness that I've come to expect of my personal vehicles. Though an SUV is very useful, both for the room and towing ability, the driving characteristics and truck-like interiors have always been a turn-off for me. Then I drove one of the new Toyota 4Runners.

First of all, the look is both tough and sophisticated. Unlike anything else on the road, the Toyota 4Runner exudes a presence that's unmistakable. Climb inside and you're greeted with an interior that could easily be from a Lexus. Build and material quality is superb and the switchgear has a Lexus-smooth feel. Traction control and an antiskid system are standard, along with ABS. Side and head curtain airbags are also available. Other options include navigation, a Sport package and a rear air suspension.

On the road, the Toyota 4Runner exhibits typical SUV top heaviness and stiff ride. Curves should be negotiated with caution, but the Sport models stiffer suspension and 17” wheels reduce the body roll significantly.

The 4.0L V6 has more than enough power for most people. But the optional 4.7L V8 adds even more power and increases the towing capacity to 5,000lbs. Another feature of the V8 model is the standard AWD system with low-range gearing. The V6 model gets an optional part time system with a locking center differential.

The Toyota 4Runner is a very sophisticated truck. It is still a truck...but it beats the wheelbarrow. . COMMON PROBLEMS FOR THE TOYOTA 4RUNNER: V8 models may not start due to a faulty cam position sensor (2005-2006). If the sunroof gets stuck, it's often due to the grease hardening. If it rattles or shutters it may need several pieces of felt tape and lubrication of the guides, arms and lifter pins (2003-2007).