Exactly twenty-five years, four generations and little over 1.5 million sales after the debut of the first 4Runner in 1984, Toyota today launched the fifth-generation model of its mid-sized truck-based SUV. Sharing the same the same platform with the FJ Cruiser, the completely redesigned 2010 4Runner continues to use body-on-frame construction. According to Toyota's own words, the new 4Runner is "more rugged than the Highlander and more versatile than the FJ Cruiser".

Taller, wider and longer than its predecessor, the 2010 4Runner offers an optional third-row of seats and is available in three different trim grades starting off with the SR5, the more luxurious and better equipped Limited, and a more "off-roadish" version called Trail.

The latter comes with a higher ground clearance and a Multi-Terrain Select system that allows the driver to select from four different modes, depending on the type of terrain. Toyota's Crawl Control (CRAWL) feature, which comes with five different speed settings and prevents the vehicle from rolling down too fast by regulating engine speed and output along with braking force, is also standard on the Trail grade model.

The Trail is distinguished on the outside by the black outer mirrors, front and rear bumper guards, dark smoke treatment on the head and tail lamps and the bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels as well as the specific hood scoop.

The 2010 4Runner is offered in rear-wheel drive 4x2 and part time 4x4 configurations as well as a full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking center differential (standard on the Trail model).

All 4x4 models are powered by a new and more powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270HP and 278 lb-ft of torque, that is coupled to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission returning an EPA-estimated 17mpg city and 22mpg highway.

With the 4x2 system, the 4.0 V6's mileage is slightly better at 17mpg city and 23mpg highway.

For 2010 there's also a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers an output of 157 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, and is combined with a four-speed automatic (we assume that a cassette-player is also standard...) returning 18 city/23 highway mpg. The four-pot is available only with the 4x2 system on the SR5 model.