TOYOTA'S 1999 4RUNNER RECEIVES NUMEROUS UPGRADES AND NEW SYSTEM

The third generation Toyota 4Runner enters its fourth year with more standard features and options than any 4Runner to date. A new front fascia and 4WD system for the Limited grade are just a few of 4Runner's numerous upgrades for 1999.

All three trim levels -- 4Runner, SR5 and Limited -- receive upgrades for the 1999 model year.

Interior amenity upgrades include an overhead console with a garage door opener/sunglass holder, a new center console box with dual cupholders and two power outlets in the center cluster. The 4Runner's instrument panel receives a digital LCD odometer and dual trip meter.

A new storage location has been integrated into the rear seats for the headrests when the rear seats are folded forward for additional cargo space. A rear quarter-panel storage area also has been integrated into all 1999 4Runners.

SR5 grade level 4Runners now feature as standard heated outside mirrors, built-in map lights in the overhead console and cruise control. In addition, the SR5 model's optional Sports Package has been upgraded to include front and rear color-keyed bumpers with projector fog lamps, fender flares, a new wheel design and a sporty hood scoop.

4Runner Limited grades receive all aforementioned upgrades plus built-in projector fog lamps, a fully-automatic air conditioner with a digital heater control panel, front power windows with one-touch auto-up/down functions and jam protection (optional in SR5 and 4Runner grades), keyless entry with back window remote and an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer (optional on SR5 and base models). Also new for 1999, and exclusive to the 4Runner Limited, is its new multi-mode 4WD system.

All Toyota 4Runners are available in both two- and four-wheel drive configurations and can be powered by either a four-cylinder or V6 engine coupled with a five-speed manual or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's automatic transmission is electronically linked to the engine control computer to ensure smooth shifting.

The four-cylinder, two-wheel drive model is the 4Runner's base model. Powered by a 2.7-liter, 16-valve, dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder engine with balance shafts, it produces 150 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 177 lb./ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The fourvalve combustion chamber combined with independent intake runners create an exceptional blend of fuel efficiency and power across the rpm range. City/highway EPA mileage estimates are 18/23 mpg with a five-speed manual transmission and 20/24 mpg with four-speed automatic transmission for two-wheel drive models. Four-wheel 'drive models deliver an estimated 17/21 mpg with five-speed manual and 18/21 mpg with four-speed automatic transmissions.

Additional power can be found in 4Runner's rugged V6 powerplant. This 3.4liter, 24-valve, dual-overhead cam engine is designed to boost power in the higher rpm ranges, while providing the low-rpm torque necessary for towing and off-road use. Long independent intake runners and a large capacity air cleaner maximize the engine's performance, helping to deliver 183 horsepower at 4,800 rpm and 217 lb./ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm. Two-wheel drive models deliver an estimated city/highway EPA fuel economy of 17/21 mpg. Four-wheel drive models provide 17/19 mpg when paired with a five-speed manual transmission and 17/20 mpg with four-speed automatic.

Toyota's 4WDemand shift-on-the-fly engagement system comes standard on all four-wheel drive 4Runner models, enabling the part-time four-wheel drive system to be engaged at speeds up to 50 mph. A One-Touch Hi-4 switch, available exclusively on 4Runner Limited models, makes shifting into high-4WD as easy as a touch of a button. All four-wheel drive 4Runners; are equipped with a two-speed transfer case.

For 1999, 4Runner Limited models receive a new multi-mode 4WD system as standard. The new multi-mode 4WD feature is actually a full-time all-wheel-drive system with 2WD capability. The all-wheel 4WD mode may be used in normal driving conditions on all types of roads from dry, hard surface roads, such as pavement, to wet, icy or snow-covered roads. Driving with the new multi-mode's all-wheel drive system engaged provides the driver with a more controlled, sure-footed feel to the road because power is applied evenly to all four wheels thus improving traction.