The Toyota 4Runner SUV enters 2010 with more power, improved fuel efficiency, a more rugged exterior, and a redesigned interior. The new fifth-generation 4Runner continues to ride on a truck-based platform, ensuring its durability and off-road capabilities, while incorporating all the elements essential to make it a well-behaved daily driver.

The 4Runner grows in size for 2010, becoming slightly longer, wider, and taller than the previous year's version. Overall length stretches to 189.9 inches (up from 189.2), and width checks in at 75.8 inches (up from 75.2). Height tops out at 71.5 inches, up from 69.3 inches. New exterior highlights for 2010 include beefier bumpers and wider shoulders, as well as new headlight and taillight designs.

Potential 4Runner buyers can choose from SR5, Trail, and top-of-the-line Limited trims for 2010. All trims are available in four-wheel-drive versions, while the SR5 and Limited also come in rear-wheel-drive configurations.

A new 4.0-liter, 24-valve DOHC V6 engine drives all 4Runner trims except the entry-level SR5 trim. The new V6 generates 270 hp, an increase of 34 hp over the previous year's V6 powerplant. In addition, torque increases from 266 lb-ft to 278 lb-ft for 2010. The V6 links to a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence, which adjusts shifting patterns according to road and driver input. The EPA estimates fuel economy for the new V6 at 17/23 mpg for rear-wheel-drive trims, a slight improvement from the 16/20 mpg numbers posted by the previous year's powerplant. Fuel economy numbers for the V6 engine in the four-wheel-drive trims remain unchanged at 17/22 mpg. When equipped with the new V6, the 4Runner can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2.7-liter, DOHC four-cylinder engine, which drives the entry-level rear-wheel-drive SR5 trim, rolls over from the previous year unchanged. It produces 157 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque and mates to a four-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy numbers for the four-cylinder engine check in at 18/23 mpg.

The four-wheel-drive SR5 and Trail trims come equipped with a two-speed, part-time, lever-operated 4WD system with a neutral position, while the Limited trim receives a full-time 4WD system with a stronger rear differential than the previous year's system. The driver can operate the Limited's 4WD system via a three-mode console-mounted switch.

Toyota makes its A-TRAC active traction control system standard equipment on all 4WD 4Runner trims for 2010. This system distributes torque to individual wheels with the best grip on the road to ensure optimal stability and traction over irregular terrain and on slippery road surfaces. In addition, the rugged Trail trim comes standard with such features as Crawl Control, which maintains a set level of speed, adjustable at five low-speed levels, and a Multi-Terrain Select system, which enables the driver to control wheel slip to match the terrain. The Trail trim also comes standard with an electronic locking rear differential. All 4WD trims include Downhill Assist Control, which maintains a set speed during steep descents.

Inside, the 2010 4Runner receives such features as new front seats with a wider range of adjustment, a center armrest for the second row of seats, and new second-row seats that recline up to 16 degrees. In addition, Toyota makes the optional third-row seat larger and more supportive.

Standard features for all 4Runner trims include power windows and door locks, a multi-information display, and 10 cupholders located throughout the cabin. The SR5 and Trail trims come equipped with manual air conditioning, while the Limited trim receives an automatic dual-zone climate control system. The SR5 includes an eight-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player and MP3 input jack, while the Trail trim adds XM satellite radio and Bluetooth. The Limited keeps passengers entertained with a 15-speaker JBL system with a 6-CD changer and a subwoofer. The Trail also includes such standard features as power-adjustable front seats, while the Limited adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a Smart Key system. Using an Eco-Driving feature, included on all trims, drivers can manage the 4Runner's fuel consumption.

All trims come equipped with a full range of airbags, including front seat-mounted side airbags and roll-sensing side curtain airbags. Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control and antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, also comes standard on all 4Runner trims. The SR5 and Trail trims ride on 17-inch wheels, while the Limited glides on 20-inch alloy wheels.