The latest Toyota truck or SUV model is a huge deal in this writer's Northern Ontario locale and thousands like it-- especially when the model in question is one as connected to the enthusiast community as the 4Runner.

The 2010 4Runner remains equal parts enthusiast off-road rig and high-capability family hauler. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)
Toyota’s engineers busily worked in the dirt in advance of launching their latest 4Runner iteration earlier this year. Taking a place near the top Toyota’s sport-ute hierarchy, the 2010 4Runner remains equal parts enthusiast off-road rig and high-capability family hauler. It also gets the first ‘mean’ face Toyota’s given a vehicle in modern history.
New four-litre V6
Behind said face is a new 4.0L, 270 horsepower V6. That’s more sauce than both the V6 and V8 engines offered in 4Runner last year, which is why it’s currently the only powerplant offered.
The new V6 engine delivers plenty of low-end power, thanks to variable valve timing and intake systems-- meaning that downshifts are virtually superfluous in most situations. They’re almost programmed out of the transmission's shift logic altogether, with only the strongest throttle jabs coaxing the five-speed unit to drop a cog.
In all, 4Runner’s powertrain gives owners plenty of gas-saving tools, and those gentle with the controls will be rewarded with manageable mileage. On my watch, consumption landed around 15.5L / 100km in combined highway, city and off-road driving.
Hitting the dirt
Off-road driving? In a brand new truck with a $40,000-plus sticker? Of course! Most 4Runner owners don’t hit the dirt until their machines are a decade old, but your writer wasn’t about to evaluate a machine of this turf-tossing calibre solely on gravel roads and in shopping-mall parking lots.

Behind said face is a new 4.0L, 270 horsepower V6. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com)