Far and away, one of the best SUVs available.

When the 4Runner first appeared in 1985, it was basically a Toyota pickup with the cargo bed covered with a removable fiberglass camper shell. It competed with monikers like Ford Bronco, Chevy Blazer and Jeep Wagoneer. As the years passed the 4Runner evolved into one of the most capable off-road SUVs on the market while those initial competitors have ceased production. That says a lot about the popularity of Toyota’s midsize SUV.

The fourth and current generation of the Toyota 4Runner was introduced in 2003 and remains more truck than car without riding like a buckboard wagon. For 2005, Toyota improves performance, safety and appearance in the various models offered.

4Runner is available in three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition and Limited. All three models are available with either the V-6 or V-8 and two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Base prices range from $28,360 for the 4x2 V-6 SR5 to $38,360 for the 4x4 Limited with the V-8 engine.

Standard features on the base SR5 include 16-inch wheels, automatic climate control, a CD player, remote keyless entry, tilt-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, chrome grille and body-colored bumpers. The standard V-6 engine is rated at 245 horsepower and gets a new five-speed automatic transmission for 2005. The optional 4.7-liter V-8 has been increased to 270 horsepower for 2005.

I tested an all-wheel drive Sport Edition with the optional V-8 engine. The Sport Edition is distinguished by a silly looking, non-functional hood scoop, fog lamps, body-colored grille and outside mirrors, black running boards, silver-painted roof rails, 17-inch wheels and X-REAS shocks (used to help quell body roll in turns).

The Limited includes leather seating, heated power front seats, premium JBL stereo with 10 speakers, rear seat audio controls with remote control and head phones, dual-zone automatic climate control and illuminated running boards.

While third-row seating is optional ($1195 and only on the SR5 and Limited) you may want to consider a different vehicle if its on your “must have” list. 4Runner’s idea of a third row is actually two separate seats that fold up to the sides of the rear cargo compartment and parallel to the rear side windows. They’re so small and sit so low that even a 10-year old will sit with his chin on his knees and head up against the headliner. Consider the very capable Toyota Highlander or even the Sienna minivan, which we thoroughly loved.

Other options include a sunroof ($900), DVD based navigation system ($2,300) and side curtain airbags ($650).

From the outside, 4Runner is not the most attractive vehicle, being more truck-like in appearance than competitive models. Both front and rear fenders feature large plastic cladding (thankfully Toyota now color codes them with the body) and are squared off rather than rounded to the shape of the tire. The Lexus GX470, which shares the body and platform with the 4Runner, has a much more pleasing style.

I like that the tailgate window powers all the way down, useful for loading packages or just circulating interior air. What I don’t like is the over-sized rear spoiler that extends above the tailgate. It does not, in my opinion, enhance the 4Runner’s look.

Inside, the 4Runner cabin is functional and roomy with exceptional fit and finish. The two-tone dashboard is attractive and gauges are set in three satin-finished metal trimmed ovals housing the speedometer, tachometer and fuel/engine gauges. I am not a fan of the orange illumination at night, which is hard on the eyes.

Power windows, mirrors and door locks are standard equipment. All controls are intuitive and easy to use.

Seats are comfortable but set low, making you feel almost as if you are sitting on the floor. Very short drivers won’t complain, but those who are average height or taller won’t like the feel. The previous generation 4Runner suffered from the same impairment.

The 4Runner uses an independent front suspension with control arms and a solid rear axle. Even so, it has a very compliant ride on smooth, paved surfaces and a tolerable ride on rough off-road terrain or uneven road pavement. Handling is pleasantly tight with minimal body-roll on corners, which is somewhat surprising for a traditional body-on-frame SUV. But make no mistake, because 4Runner is built on a full ladder frame you won’t experience the sedan-like ride found in crossover SUVs like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot or Nissan Murano.

Safety features include standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes with BrakeAssist and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution. Stability control (called VSC) is standard as are front-seat mounted side airbags. Side airbags and overhead side-curtain airbags for front and rear passengers are optional on all models. In government crash testing, the 4Runner earned four out of five stars in the frontal impact category and a perfect five stars for side impacts. The Insurance Institute awarded the 4Runner its highest rating of “Good” for offset frontal crash tests.

4Runner is most at home when taken off-road and comes standard with features like Toyota’s Downhill Assist Control system to help navigate steep, slippery downhill grades off road. Standard Hill-Start Assist Control is designed to prevent the vehicle from rolling back when starting up a steep ascent (think San Francisco). Combined with all-wheel drive, standard skid plates and a full-length boxed section frame, 4Runner is a most capable and serious off-road vehicle.

But if the most off-roading you’re apt to do is over an occasional curb or gravel driveway, you’ll be happier in the Toyota Highlander or other unibody crossover vehicle. You’ll enjoy the ride and handling on a daily basis significantly more, especially if you need seating for seven or more.

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