Mixing true off-road performance with a family-friendly upscale interior, the 2009 Toyota 4Runner comes across as a versatile and powerful midsize SUV. With available V6 and V8 engines, it can tow anywhere from 5,000 to 7,300 pounds, and its two 4WD systems come equipped with limited-slip differentials, Downhill Assist, and low-range gearing, for competent all-terrain capability.

The 2009 4Runner comes in 12 different trims. Base SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited are each offered with either a 4.0-liter, 236-hp DOHC V6 engine or a 4.7-liter, 260-hp DOHC i-Force V8 engine, and each engine comes in rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive configuration. The V6's 4WD system features driver-selectable modes, while the V8's 4WD is an automatic full-time system. Variable valve timing in both engines attempts to improve fuel economy, though the numbers still hover only in the high teens – about 18/22 mpg for the V6 and 17/20 for the V8. A 5-speed adaptive automatic, which chooses gears based on road and driver inputs, is the only transmission.

No major refresh lies in store for the 2009 4Runner, but it does gain a second 12-volt power outlet up front, boosting the total to three (including one in the cargo area). The Sport Edition gains a new Trail Edition option package, which adds a locking rear differential, 16-inch alloy wheels, Bilstein shocks, tubular side rails, A-TRAC active traction control, and color-keyed handles and grille. On the inside, it gets waterproof fabric, leather trim, and a standard navigation system and Bluetooth.

Though the 2009 4Runner comes standard with two rows of seats, families might want to opt for the optional third row available in the SR5 and Limited, which boosts capacity to seven people. The second row split-folds flat 60/40 and the third row also folds and can be removed. A second-row fold-down armrest offers up a pull-out tray with cupholders. Legroom suffers in both rear rows, with only 34.6 inches for second-row passengers. The cargo area features tie-downs on the sides and floor and can be equipped with an adjustable two-tier storage unit. A roof rack provides more storage options.

Despite its rugged pretensions, the 2009 4Runner actually feels refined inside, with a good list of standard equipment. The base SR5 features power accessories, cruise control, a CD/MP3 player with input jack, and 16-inch wheels. The flashier Sport Edition offers a hood scoop, chrome roof rails, 17-inch wheels, wheel-mounted controls, power front seats, and a sport-tuned suspension. The high-end Limited adds 18-inch wheels, heated leather seats, a 6-CD player, larger 18-inch wheels, wood trim, and a black roof rack. All trims feature waterproof glass. Options tack on a DVD player, navigation system, Bluetooth, and a sunroof.

The 2009 4Runner earns four and five stars in crash tests and maintains Toyota's reputation for safety and reliability. Traction and stability control, 4-wheel ABS brakes, skid plates, Hill Start Control, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for the first two rows are all standard, with the option to add a rearview camera. V8 4WD trims can add an auto-leveling suspension, which adapts to road conditions to improve handling, especially during towing.