The 2005 Toyota 4Runner comes in three trim levels: SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited. Toyota offers buyers maximum flexibility by offering all three with either the V6 or V8 ($1,250) and two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
The 4Runner SR5 V6 4x2 ($27,495) and SR5 V6 4x4 ($29,770) come standard with automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, skid plates to protect the underbody, 16-inch alloy wheels, black running boards, chrome grille, and body-colored bumpers, fender flares and lower cladding. The SR5 V8 4x4 ($31,220) replaces selectable 2WD/4WD with full-time all-wheel-drive. A Class III receiver hitch with seven-pin electric connection is standard on all models and mounted to the rear frame crossmember.
The Sport Edition comes with X-REAS shock damping, a clever yet simple hydraulic system that improves stability and handling in sweeping turns. The 4Runner Sport Edition V6 4x2 ($28,765) and 4X4 ($31,040) are distinguished by a hood scoop, fog lamps, a color-keyed grille, black running boards and silver-painted roof rails and crossbars, color-keyed outside mirrors, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Sport models get slightly larger brake rotors, and weigh slightly more than the SR5. They come with a special cloth interior.
The Limited V6 4X2 ($33,770) and 4x4 ($36,045) are upgraded with leather trim and heated power front seats. For 2005, the Limited grade is differentiated with color-keyed front and rear bumpers, black illuminated running boards and black roof rails and crossbars. It comes with a premium JBL stereo with 10 speakers, rear seat audio controls, remote control and headphones. The top of the line is the Limited V8 4x4 ($37,495).
Options include the third-row seat ($735), a power moonroof ($900). A slick GPS navigation system, packaged with the new rear-view video camera ($2,695), is available only on the 4Runner Limited.
Safety features include ABS and Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) to help the driver maintain control in adverse conditions. 2WD models come with traction control, which reduces tire slippage for enhanced stability under acceleration. 4WD models are equipped with active traction control (A-TRAC), which uses sensors and software to deliver smoother power application in all conditions.
Passive safety features include dual-stage front airbags, which have been upgraded for 2005, and three-point seat belts at all positions, with pretensioners and force limiters to reduce the chance of belt-related injuries. Front side-impact airbags and curtain-style head protection airbags for front and rear passengers are optional and are equipped with a rollover-sensing system and a cutoff switch. All models come with a tire pressure monitor.