I'm new to this forum, and I've got a question: Why are the 2nd Gen 4Runner's rated so low for driver safety? I've owned a '93 2nd Gen that I loved a year or so ago, and I'm wishing I never sold it, but in shopping for them again, I'm rather worried about the driver safety. Do any of you know what the particular weakness in the 2nd Gen 4Runner's is? Has anyone here been in an accident in one, and can account of why it would be rated so low? Am I just worrying for nothing? (The safety of my wife and I is rather important to me) Thanks!

 

Because of the safety rating, I'm considering a 93-or later pickup because they're much higher rated safety-wise for the driver. Meanwhile, the 93 t100 was a lemon when it came to the crash tests. Was the 4runner updated with the same safety-improving factors, and just not retested, or what?

 

Yeah, and the 92-94 toyota tercel was rated excellent in crash tests. Guess what vehicle from the 90's has the highest death per crash rating? The 92-94 toyota Tercel. IMO crash ratings dont mean squat compared to real world wrecks. I dont know why the trucks rating improved, AFAIK the trucks crash rating has always been in the toilet, just like every compact truck on the market.

 

I think the main reason is there's no air bag offered till 96.

 

Thanks for responding... you both have good points. I think I'm going to shop for one and just see how it goes. Out of curiosity, are there any auto/22RE's?

 

i wouldnt drive a 22re with a auto, i have manual and dont see how i could drive if it was auto, too slow

 

Yes, auto/22RE combo's exist. In a regular cab truck they are not too bad, but in anything else they are dogs. In my personal experience, the 22re/5speed is comparable to the 3.0/auto, at least in the pickups. The 3.0/5-speed feels like a whole new machine.