Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to be able to take a look at some major info about the 2003 4Runner. The info is still under Toyota's embargo for the next few days and I promised not to pass any of it on until I get permission to do so.

That being said, I think I owe Toyota an apology. At the very least they put a LOT of thought and engineering into this truck (and there's no doubt that it's STILL A TRUCK!!)

I'm sorry about the tease, but I think I'll be eating a lot of crow and some of you guys may want to get the catsup ready, too.

 

I talked to Paul's old boss who drove these two 4Runners in Paul's pics.

He said indeed it should do well off road, and it has some system to lower it up & down.
That and a bigger engine are pluses.

The only thing I'm disliking on it is the frontend shape, and the Chevy Alvalanch style fender flares.
The sytle just doesn't sit with me as looking very rugged looking.
I was next to an Avalanch rig yesterday, and I had to contain myself to keep from laughing.

It just fits into the whole "fugly" department like that Pontiac vehicle that lets you sleep in the back.

 

Aw, c'mon, nuthin's THAT ugly!

 

I've seen some of that info myself. It is supposed to be official and available next Tuesday (Sept 10).

From what I've seen it is "bells and whistles" galore. Lots of options and a substantial standard equipment list.

I agree with Corey, I'm not sure it will compensate for the weird exterior look. But that look has grown on me a little.

ckonarske, something I didn't check from that sheet is if the NON-Limited version will be available in one colour only or in two colour only like the pic I've posted lately. Also I think the SR5 concept it out now only Sport Edition and Limited, both available with V6-V8

World

 

ckonarske, thanks. Knowing this, I think this will help others "swallow" the thought of the new one easier. I kinda like it and kinda don't, but who knows. I will have to see how long it lasts and what happens before I decide to embark on a voyage to a new 4Runner. I love the one that I have, so I will not have that problem soon! Thanks for the info. :fireman:

 

My first impression is that its an over plasticized cross-breeding of several not-so-well designed SUVs out there in the market.

When the 3rd gens came out in 96, I said "HOT DAMN, CLARISE!" But when this came out I said "WTF...."

Some cars when they're introduced just gets your heart racing. This isn't one of them. For me, when the Miata, the new Beetle, the TT Convertible came out, I had a good feeling. The 4th gen doesn't get me excited.

That said, if what Chuck is saying is correct, I'll open my mind a bit and check it out. Regardless of performance/capability issues, its still ugly and I'm not sure if the design will grow on me.

...thank God I bought a 98!

Bob

 

That's interior colors. There are a number of exterior colors. SR5 still lives, also. It was the 4 cyl they dropped.

If Sept 10 turns out to be the day, I'll pass on what I have then.

 

...and these pictures of the 4th genration 4Runners would be where?

 

When Toyota lifts their embargo, I'll tell you.

Sorry to be such a tease (it is kinda fun, though ), but if you're interested in ANY info about the new 4Runner, IMO, it'll be worth the wait.

 

Sorry folks, but I was just informed that the embargo is supposed to be in effect until Sept 23, so I'll have to hold out until then.

The only thing that might change things is if someone else blows it, then I don't suppose holding it back would serve any purpose.

We'll just have to wait and see, but 9/23 should be the latest.

Sorry.

 

I can't wait , I can't wait. :fireman:

 

The new style is not growing on me.
The comments I am getting is that it
looks like the Rav4. I hope by the time
I am ready for a new truck they will
have a 4-Runner Classic like Coca Cola
does.

cpw