The all-new 2010 Toyota 4Runner builds upon its rugged heritage delivering
go-anywhere performance with more power, and using less fuel

BARRIE, ON, Sept. 24 /CNW/ - In 1984, Toyota's revolutionary first Toyota 4Runner sport utility vehicle (SUV) was launched, based on the mechanics of the four-wheel-drive Toyota pickup truck, combined with the versatility and go-anywhere ability with comfort and utility. Twenty-five years and four generations later, the 4Runner remains close to its roots. To date, more than 103,225 Canadians have purchased the 4Runner and discovered both on- and off-road adventure.

Today, for the first time in Canada and as part of the North American premiere of this vehicle, Toyota revealed the all-new 2010 4Runner at North America's largest outdoor auto show, the 2009 Georgian College Auto Show. Packed with an impressive list of new standard performance, safety, comfort, and convenience features, the latest 4Runner will start at $36,800 - the same starting price as the 2009 model it replaces.

The all-new fifth-generation is redesigned inside and out to be even more rugged and athletic, delivering more power, better fuel efficiency and packed with more safety features and technologies for Canadian drivers in search of a confident, capable and authentic SUV. With a standard V6 engine featuring 270 hp, it offers 34 more horsepower and a five per cent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the previous V6 engine. Moreover, the new V6 out powers even the previous generation V8 engine by 10 horsepower, and matches its 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) towing capacity. All the while new technologies including Crawl Control and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) support off-road adventure. Power and fuel efficiency combined with new off-road technologies make the new 4Runner a true workhorse.

"4Runner drivers continue to embrace its proven heritage of power, performance and passion that is built upon over 70 years of Toyota truck heritage worldwide," said Warren Orton , Director, Toyota Canada Inc. "Expanding upon its body-on-frame design, the 2010 4Runner will appeal to enthusiasts and go-anywhere on and off road drivers."

A perfect fit within Toyota's mid-size SUV lineup, the 4Runner complements the Highlander crossover and the retro-inspired off-roader, the FJ Cruiser. It combines the toughness and durability of body-on-frame construction with multi-use design that excels at a wide variety of tasks.

The newest 4Runner is taller, wider and longer for 2010, and is available in a variety of configurations. It will be offered in one well-equipped V6 SR5 base model with four option packages: the Upgrade package, the Trail Edition for those who require maximum off-road capability, the luxuriously appointed Limited package, and the top-of-the-line Limited with Navigation package.

The standard drivetrain is a full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking centre differential. All models are equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 mated to a five-speed Super ECT-i automatic transmission. Third-row seats in the Limited and Limited with Navigation packages allow for up to seven-person capacity.

The 2010 Toyota 4Runner will start at $36,800 ; the same starting price as the 2009 model it replaces. It will go on sale across Canada later this fall.

"With its heritage in Canada and worldwide for performance and versatility, the all-new 4Runner will not disappoint current enthusiasts nor prospective SUV buyers," said Orton. "When it arrives later this fall, the 4Runner will offer a balance of power, efficiency and off-road-ready fun for drivers young and young-at-heart."

For further information: including a full list of media contacts, digital images and product details please visit media.toyota.ca