Toyota 2014 4Runner Refresh Tries To Ramp Up Ruggedness

Toyota is talking up some of the details on its refreshed 2014 4Runner SUV. Toyota says that the new SUV has a "rugged exterior design" helping it to look as if it's meant to go off-road. The 4Runner is one of the more off-road capable of the SUVs on the market today. The 2014 will mark the fifth-generation of Toyota's classic SUV and brings a new exterior design along with interior refinement according to the automaker.

The SUV uses body-on-frame construction with suspension technology yielding off-road capability with a smooth ride and comfort on the road. The vehicle will be offered in three different versions including a SR5, Limited, and Trail version. The Trail version of the all-new SUV is aimed specifically at drivers who want the most off-road capability they can get.

The less off-road oriented SR5 and Limited will also have optional third row seating allowing the SUV to haul up to seven people. Toyota will continue to offer rear wheel drive, part-time 4x4, and full-time 4x4 drive trains. All models will use the same 4.0-liter 270 hp V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission. The refreshed 4Runner gets a new front fascia the more rugged and aggressive appearance.

The new front end includes a "muscular front grille" and spoke headlamps. Both the SR5 and Trail editions have color keyed grille inserts and front bumper with fog lamps. The Trail version also has color keyed bumpers and over fenders. All versions of the 2014 4Runner get a standard roof rack. The Limited edition is fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels and the SR5 and Trail grade get 17-inch wheels, all painted black. Available colors for 2014 carrying over from 2013 include Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Grey Metallic, and Black. Several new colors will be available including Super White, Attitude Black Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic, and Nautical Blue Metallic.

[via Toyota]