Toyota Autocar

Toyota 4Runner

The current midsize Toyota 4Runner SUV, introduced for 2003, represents the vehicle's fourth generation. It comes in three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition and Limited. Each trim is available with two engine options. A base 4.0-liter V6 engine puts out 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. A more powerful 4.7-liter V8 makes 260 hp and a healthy 306 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard across all trims, and four-wheel drive is optional.

The Sport Edition comes with the expected roof rack, side steps and foglights, but it is more than just an appearance package. There are bigger front brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels and Toyota's X-REAS suspension system, which reduces body roll in turns. The Limited is the top-of-the-line model, adding the usual premium features, such as leather seating, dual climate control and a CD changer. All trims get the latest electronic gadgetry. Downhill Assist Control automatically modulates the brakes and throttle to maintain smooth descents. Hill-Start Assist Control helps prevent the SUV from rolling backward.

In road tests and reviews, we found the Toyota 4Runner to be surprisingly light and responsive for a truck-based SUV. It feels spirited and taut. There is minimal body lean on even the twistiest of roads, although cornering limits are predictably low. Both engines provide a good amount of hustle, and for general use most buyers should be happy with the more fuel-efficient V6. For those planning on frequent towing, the V8 is likely the better choice. In any trim, the 4Runner shines off-road.

Downsides to the 4Runner are few. One concern is that it provides less cargo space than most of its midsize competitors. Models with the optional third-row seat are further hampered, as the third row doesn't fold completely flat while providing only a very limited amount of legroom. Due to the 4Runner's utilitarian roots, attentive drivers may notice trucklike body motions at times.
Shopping for a used model from the fourth generation should be straightforward, as Toyota has made only minor changes since the 2003 launch. The V8 option in earlier models (2003-'04) came with considerably less horsepower (235), while making 320 lb-ft of torque. Those early V6 models also came with a four-speed automatic transmission, as opposed to the five-speed automatic that's currently available. Formerly optional side curtain airbags became standard in '08.

Toyota Tundra

Three engines see duty in the 2008 Toyota Tundra. Standard on the Tundra Regular Cab and standard-bed Double Cab is a 4.0-liter V6 rated for 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Optional on these models and standard on all other Tundras is a 4.7-liter V8 with 271 hp and 313 lb-ft. Optional on all Tundras is the muscular 5.7-liter V8 that pumps out 381 hp and 401 lb-ft. A five-speed automatic transmission comes with the base V6 and 4.7-liter V8, while the 5.7 V8 is paired with a six-speed automatic. With the big V8, the Tundra is seriously quick -- a Double Cab Limited 4WD we tested sprinted to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.

All versions of the Tundra can be equipped with two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and all trucks come with a limited-slip rear differential. Properly equipped, a 4x2 Tundra Regular Cab can tow up to 10,800 pounds.

Equipped with the 5.7-liter V8, the 2008 Toyota Tundra is incredibly powerful and the engine's delivery is impressively smooth. Shifts from the six-speed automatic transmission are prompt, and the console shifter's precise action allows drivers to easily use the manual mode while tackling steep highway grades or rugged off-road situations.

Like most of today's half-ton trucks, the Tundra provides a smooth and quiet highway ride, although trucks with the off-road package tend to feel choppy over rain-grooved expressway pavement. Light, precise steering makes for easy maneuvering in parking lots, but some buyers may find it a bit too light at highway speeds. Handling is predictable around corners, with minimal body roll, though the Tundra doesn't hold a significant advantage over its competitors in this area. Braking performance is a strong point, as the Tundra has a firm, progressive pedal feel and respectable stopping distances, with minimal fade under heavy use.

Toyota Sienna

A superb 3.5-liter V6 engine with 266 hp matched to a five-speed automatic transmission is featured on every 2008 Sienna. This refined combination provides brisk performance (we timed an AWD version of the XLE from zero to 60 mph in just 8.0 seconds) as well as respectable gas mileage. The revised 2008 EPA figures come in at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for front-drive models, while the AWD versions rate 16 and 21, respectively.

Although the 2008 Toyota Sienna automatic transmission is calibrated more for fuel economy than performance and thus tends to shift conservatively, there's no denying the potency of the new V6 when you step into it. Acceleration is spirited in most situations, and the engine delivers its power in a quiet, refined manner. Ride quality is smooth and comfortable, but the Sienna offers little inspiration in the handling department. It feels secure enough when going around corners, but with minimal steering feedback and considerable body roll, it's not a minivan you'll relish driving. Braking distances are on par with the rest of the minivan class, but pedal feel is too soft to inspire confidence.

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control and a full complement of airbags (including front-seat side and full-length side curtain) are standard on all Siennas. The XLE Limited also comes with front and rear park assist, while rear park assist is available on LE and XLE trims.

If you opt for the navigation system, you'll also get a handy rearview camera.

In government crash testing, the 2008 Toyota Sienna earned four stars (out of five) for driver protection in frontal impacts and five stars for the front passenger. It also received five stars across the board for side-impact crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave Toyota's minivan a "Good" rating (its highest) for its performance in both frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.