09/01/1998
Toyota's 1999 4Runner Receives Numerous Upgrades and New 4WD 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.
Every 1999 4Runner receives a redesigned front bumper, valence cover and grille with new
multi-reflector headlamps with an auto-off function. 1999 models also feature special UV
protection-treated glass on the windshield and front- and rear-door windows, as well as
water-repellant glass on the front door and rear window.
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 four-valve 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 3.4-liter, 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.
To switch from 2WD to the all-wheel 4WD mode, simply reduce the vehicle's speed to less than
62 mph and push in the One-Touch "4WD" button located on the front drive control lever knob (
on the transfer case the all-wheel 4WD mode is indicated as "H4"). Returning to the 2WD mode
is just as easy, depress the "4WD" button once more and the vehicle is again operating in 2WD.
Off-road enthusiasts will find improved low-traction performance available through a locking
rear differential, optional on all four-wheel drive models (except SR5 models equipped with
automatic transmission). Sporting a 4.3:1 differential gear ratio, this feature locks the
rear wheels together while in low-4WD, forcing both wheels to turn together.
4Runner successfully balances on-road comfort and off-road performance. Both the
suspension and frame were designed to provide the long wheel travel and damping characteristics
required by off-road conditions, as well as on-road smoothness and control. A coil-spring,
double-wishbone front suspension features a closed structure for the lower arm. This design
gives added strength while minimizing unsprung weight. Low-pressure, gas-filled shock absorbers
cushion 4Runner's passenger cabin from the occasional bumps in the road, with stroke-dependent
shock absorbers accompanying models with P265 tires.
The four-link coil spring rear suspension also utilizes low-pressure, gas-filled shock
absorbers for optimum ride comfort. Front and rear stabilizer bars are incorporated into
all models. The compliant suspension works well with 4Runner's rigid frame for maximum
performance. A wheelbase of 105.3 inches contributes to ride
comfort as well as impressive rear seat legroom. The frame is reinforced throughout,
while dual front suspension cross members enhance 4Runner's ride and braking performance.
Braking is responsive, thanks to power-assisted, 12-inch ventilated front disc brakes
with 12-inch rear drums. Models equipped with the P265 tire package feature 13-inch front
ventilated discs and 12-inch rear drums. All V6 4Runners feature a four-wheel anti-lock brake
system (ABS) as standard equipment while four-cylinder models offer it as an option. This ABS
system automatically switches off when the optional locking rear differential is engaged, since
that feature does not allow the rear wheels to rotate independently of each other.
4Runner features three-point ALR/ELR seat belts in all outboard positions
(except for driver's ELR-only seat belt), front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters
and a dual front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS). Additional safety features
include front and rear side-door impact beams, a two-point non-retracting seat belt in the
rear center seat, center high mount stop lamp, and child protector rear door locks. For 1999,
a front passenger seatbelt warning light feature has been added. A warning light located in
the upper console cluster will flash until the passenger's seatbelt has been fastened.
A rugged exterior houses a spacious interior with plenty of creature comforts.
Full cut-pile carpeting, front four-way adjustable fabric bucket seats and rear split folding
fabric bench seat successfully blend comfort and utility. A driver-side footrest, dual front
and rear cup holders, a center console storage box, and an additional power outlet in the rear
cargo area make 4Runner convenient to use as well. Additional amenities include full door trim
with armrests, color-keyed instrument panel, power rear window, tinted glass, headlight-on
warning chime, spring-back antenna, day/night rearview mirror, dual-fabric sunvisors with
passenger vanity mirror, remote fuel door and hood releases, cigarette lighter, five entry/exit
assist grips, and intermittent mist cycle windshield wipers.
The SR5 grade adds several key features to upgrade its interior. A lighting package featuring
an illuminated ignition key ring, ash tray and glove box light is
included as standard equipment. Front map lights, power mirrors and door locks, a digital
clock, tilt steering wheel, variable intermittent front and rear windshield wipers and standard
cruise control round out the list of features.
The 4Runner Limited adds still more features, giving it a heightened sense of comfort and
convenience. Leather seating surfaces with a leather-covered steering wheel, power driver's
and passenger bucket seats, power windows and door locks and floor mats are included as standard
equipment. The Limited edition also offers superb sound quality as a Premium ETR/CD with six
speakers, power antenna and diversity antenna is standard.
Color and Trim
All 4Runner models are available in ten exterior colors. For 1999, 4Runner receives four new
exterior colors -- Millennium Silver Metallic, Autumn Blaze Metallic, Imperial Jade Mica,
Horizon Blue Metallic -- which replace Anthracite Metallic, Evergreen Pearl,
Azure Blue Metallic and Cool Steel Metallic. 4Runner exteriors are complemented with
Gray or Oak interiors in either cloth or leather trim.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other
than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month limited warranties are available and
cover powertrain components for 60,000 miles and corrosion perforation with no mileage limitation.
Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.
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