Quick Look: 2009 Toyota 4Runner
Toyota Tried and Toyota True
What's New For 2009? The 2009 Toyota 4Runner starting to show its age. However, Toyota is on top of things, and for 2009, the Toyota 4Runner gets a new optional Trail Edition package for V-6-powered four-wheel drive SR5 versions. The Trail Edition Package bundles active traction control, Bilstein shocks and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with color-keyed grille, door handles and rear license plate trim, as well as tubular side steps and roof rack. The seats are covered in water-resistant material and charcoal fabric bolsters.
Should I Buy This Car? No. The 2009 Toyota 4Runner is a solid off-roader, but the fact of the matter is that it's thirsty in both six- and eight-cylinder versions, has a dated interior that wasn't much good to begin with, and is outclassed by newer vehicles.
When is a new Toyota 4Runner going to show up? Toyota hasn't officially announced plans, but most speculation says that this is the final year of this particular 4Runner. What the future holds is anybody's guess sales of traditional SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner haven't been good of late.
What else should I consider? The 2009 Nissan Pathfinder now has a V-8 engine with more power than the 4Runner, and gets mileage that's just as good (or bad). The 2009 Kia Borrego is a newcomer to the scene, but it also has a gutsy, fuel-efficient V-8 available and a killer warranty.

Quick Look: 2009 Toyota 4Runner
The 2009 model year marks the sixth for this generation of Toyota 4Runner, making it one of the oldest models in Toyota's range. The interior layout is decidedly last-generation, the optional navigation system uses an old-school screen, and there are numerous other anachronisms strewn throughout. However, there's some excellent off-road capability here, further enhanced by the new Trail Edition for the SR5
The 2009 Toyota 4Runner is available in three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition and Limited. Each trim level is available with either a 4.0-liter V-6 which produces 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 266 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,800 rpm, or a 4.7-liter V-8 which pumps out 260 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 306 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Regardless of engine or trim level, every 4Runner can be equipped with four-wheel drive.


Prices for the 2009 Toyota 4Runner start at $29,385 for a V-6 two-wheel drive base SR5 and extend all the way to $40,105 for a Toyota 4Runner Limited with a V-8 engine and four-wheel drive. Major options packages include a third-row seat, power moonroof, and a JBL 10-speaker sound system with an in-dash 6-disc CD-changer. The same JBL sound system can also be purchased with a navigation system.

 

I purchased my first 4Runner this past December and I am still just learning just what a 4Runner is all about. I traded in my 2002 Sequoia Limited for a 2009 4Runner Limited V6 with the multi-mode 4 wheel drive system. This one has the X-Res suspension, Moon Roof, Leather with heated seats but no third row seat. Top of the line JBL System All options except for NAV or DVD, Air Level control, and rear locking differential. In any event I am learning that this is a real rugged truck and the Sequoia while a truck is not as tough or truck like. I traded the Sequoia in because I really did not need to tow camper anymore and I wanted update a few years, downsize and get a few more MPGs. I still wanted a true sport utility and I still to a 6 X 10 Carmate cargo trailer with a single axle with no electric brakes. This all being said I still trying to understand just how the 4Runner should sound and perform. I would say that a 4Runner has real true grit. With the V6 and 5 Speed OD it lugs a bit from 30 - 40 MPH. I was told this is normal and at time I will put it in 4th for around town to avoid the low RPM lug. The low RPMs means better gas mileage. However if you stick your foot into it this thing really hauls but.