← Japanese Oem Design Evolution
Toyota Motor Co. has issued the following press release:
The American version of the new Toyota Hilux Surf, known as the 4Runner was introduced on the 20th of September. Now the Japanese version has been launched on the home market.
Enclosed is the American release.
For 17 years, 4Runner has been Toyota’s high-volume, high-image sport utility vehicle (SUV) leader with sales of over 1.2 million units since its introduction in 1985. For three generations, the Toyota 4Runner has set the standard in the mid-size SUV class for ruggedness, dependability, and day-in day-out versatility. During that time, 4Runner has delivered on a promise of legendary off-road capability with a style and an image that is aspirational, youthful, sporty, and most of all, genuine.
Now entering its fourth generation, the all-new 4Runner enhances its legendary tradition of off-road capability through the use of numerous technological advancements. At the same time, the all-new 4Runner is more capable, larger and roomier, delivers more power, produces increased fuel efficiency, and provides improved ride comfort.
MORE POWER AND FUEL ECONOMY…FEWER EMISSIONS
With a larger and roomier vehicle comes the need for more power. 4Runner delivers with an all-new 4.0-liter V6 aluminum engine with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The new lightweight engine is Toyota’s first all-aluminum engine on a light truck. It features a new linkless electronic throttle control system with intelligence (ETCS-i) that helps improve performance and increase fuel economy. The new V6 delivers 245 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and generates one of the highest six-cylinder torque capabilities in the mid-SUV segment with 282 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,800 RPM. Fuel economy is improved with preliminary EPA city/highway gas mileage of 18/21 mpg for all 2WD models and 17/20 for all 4WD grades. In addition to the added power, the new engine is EPA-certified as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV).
For heavy duty high-torque performance, 4Runner now offers a 4.7-liter i-Force V8 engine on all models. The powerful V8 also features ETCS-i to help produce 235 horsepower at 4,800 RPM and 320 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,400 RPM. Preliminary EPA city/highway gas mileage for the V8 is 16/20 for all 2WD models and 15/19 for all 4WD grades and is LEV-certified. Both the V8 and V6 also feature a new cranking hold system whereby the starter is no longer controlled by the starter switch. The crank control system keeps the starter engaged from the time the ignition switch is turned on until complete combustion is detected. This helps prevent starter overrun, boosting the reliability of the starting system and freeing the driver from holding the key in the start position until the engine turns over. — Honda's all-new Fit launch in Japan.
TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED DRIVETRAINS
The V6 is paired with an electronically controlled four-speed automatic overdrive transmission (4ECT-i). All 4WD 4Runners are equipped with a two-speed transfer case with increased torque capacity. A Multi-Mode shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with a Torsen’ sensing type is standard on all 4Runners with a V6 engine and 4WD.
4Runner is the world’s first use of a TorsenO sensing type limited-slip center differential in a mid-size SUV transfer case.
The V8 engine is paired with Toyota’s first use of an ECT-i five-speed automatic with overdrive in a light truck. The transmission is equipped with an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Shift control, which changes gear-shifting patterns according to driving conditions and driver intent, contributing to a more comfortable ride.
All 4Runner models are equipped with front and rear ventilated disc brakes. Anti-Lock Brakes are standard on all models. Like the Toyota Land Cruiser, the new 4Runner continues to be equipped with standard electronic traction control, and Vehicle Skid Control (VSC).
All 4Runners with 4WD comes standard-equipped with the Downhill Assist Control (DAC) system. Through one of the world’s first uses of active wheel speed sensors, the DAC system assists engine braking to improve directional control during descent on steep or slippery surfaces. — Subaru's 2007 Tokyo Motor Show exhibition.
Another first for an SUV is an all-new Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) system that comes standard on all two- and four-wheel drive 4Runners. HAC increases stability for improved control on steep upgrades and stopping and starting on slippery surfaces. The HAC system is designed to help prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways during transition from a stopped position to climbing an upgrade. The system is automatically activated when the transmission is in any forward gear. The HAC system controls the brakes to stop the individual wheel or wheels, preventing the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways.
CHASSIS DESIGN
An all-new body-on-ladder frame chassis design features full-length boxed section frame rails that include large diameter body mounts for increased torsional rigidity over the entire vehicle. The body mounts also improves cabin isolation from NVH. For towing convenience, a tow hitch receiver bolts directly to the rear frame crossmember.
The chassis is controlled by power-assisted, variable-gear, rack-and- pinion steering. All models are equipped with front and rear coil springs over gas shocks. Suspension is double wishbone in the front with a four-link rigid type suspension in the rear. A rear air suspension is available on Limited models with a V8 engine for improved ride and performance when towing or hauling heavy loads. The air suspension uses linear height sensors to automatically adjust the ride height in accordance with the vehicle load.
RUGGED EXTERIOR DESIGN
4Runner has grown substantially in nearly every exterior dimension. With an additional 5.7 inches in length and 4.5 inches in wheelbase, over three inches in additional width, and larger wheels, the new 4Runner presents a wider stance for improved ride and handling.
The 4Runner features an all-new chassis design with exterior styling that expands the definition of the classic off-road SUV. Its muscular and stylish design includes a wide, rounded front end that features an aggressive horizontal grille complemented with a front bumper and skid plate, and wide headlamps that convey ruggedness. Its powerful appearance extends throughout with large overfenders and cladding conveying strength. Its prominent character lines extend to a rear that is accented by large tail lamps and a rear bumper with an integrated tow hitch. — Mazda5 Space Wagon debut at Paris Motor Show.
The 4Runner’s side mirrors are further angled out to improve the driver’s field of view. The angled mirrors also minimize wind-noise around the A-pillars. An available moonroof features Toyota’s first use of a two-stage automatic pop-up wind deflector to help minimize wind noise. The full height of the moonroof deflector will lower to an intermediate height when the vehicle is traveling over 55 MPH, and raise to full height again when the vehicle speed drops below 45 MPH and the roof is fully open.
The back hatch door is equipped with a standard power window. The hatch also comes with an electric release switch and power opener for easy opening that is especially convenient in icy weather. The back hatch also has an electric power close function to ensure it is not partially ajar.
Product photography and specifications are available at the Toyota HiLux Surf 2003 model.
