Toyota 4Runner History
The most extensive and detailed Toyota 4Runner historical archives on the web. Year by Year changes, specifications, information and more...
 
     

2000 4Runner History:
 
The following changes are made for 2000 model year.
 
1. Exterior
The color-coordinated fender flares are optional equipment on the 5VZ-FE engine SR5 grade model. The windshield glass with top shade is standard equipment on all models. The water-repellent glass for the front door windows is now standard equipment on all models. For the 1999 model year, this type of glass was standard equipment on the SR5 (for USA), the SR5-V6 (For Canada), and on the limited grade models, and optional equipment on the remaining models. On the limited grade model, the privacy glass that was previously optional for the rear door window, the quarter window, and the back door is now standard equipment. The shape of the outside rearview mirror has been optimized to reduce wind noise. Daytime running lights are now included with the antilock brake package.
 
2. 3RZ-FE Engine
The generator has been changed from 70 A to 80 A. The California specification model complies with the LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) requirements. The basic construction and operation are the same as in the ’00 TOYOTA TACOMA with 3RZ-FE engine California specification model.
 
3. Automatic Transmission
Overdrive switch has been changed to the momentary type.
 
4. Differential
The A.D.D. (Automatic Disconnect Differential) of the 3RZ-FE engine 4WD model has been changed from optional to standard equipment.
 
5. Steering
The tilt steering of the 5VZ-FE engine SR5 model has been changed from optional to standard equipment.
 
6. Audio
Three types of audio systems are available: 1.4 DIN size radio/cassette integrated unit with 4 speakers; 2 DIN size radio/cassette/CD player integrated united with 4 speakers; and 2 DIN size radio/cassette/CD player integrated unit with 6 speakers.
 
 
After receiving numerous upgrades last year, including a redesigned front fascia and a new 4WD system for the Limited grade, Toyota's popular 4Runner SUV enters the 2000 model year relatively unchanged.
 
All Toyota 4Runners are available in both 2WD and 4WD 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 help ensure smooth shifting.
 
The four-cylinder, two-wheel drive model is the 4Runner's standard 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 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 17/20 mpg when paired with a five-speed manual transmission and 17/19 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.
 
Introduced in 1999, Toyota's multi-mode 4WD system is standard on Limited grade models. The 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 or snow-covered roads. Driving with the multi-mode's all-wheel drive system engaged provides the driver with a more sure-footed feel because power is applied evenly to all four wheels which improves 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 Limited models. 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. 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 12.5-inch front ventilated discs and 12-inch rear drums. All SR5 and Limited grade 4Runners feature a four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS) as standard equipment while the four-cylinder 4WD model offers 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. An overhead console with a garage door opener/sunglass holder, a center console storage box with dual cupholders and two power outlets in the center cluster 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 with a digital LCD odometer and dual trip meter, power rear window, tinted and UV protection-treated glass on the windshield and front- and rear-door windows, 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. Built-in map lights in the overhead console, power heated outside mirrors and door locks, a digital clock, tilt steering wheel, variable intermittent front and rear windshield wipers, standard cruise control and a Deluxe 3-in-1 ETR/Cassette/CD player with four speakers rounds 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 door locks and windows with one-touch auto-up/down function and jam protection (front windows only), built-in projector fog lamps, a fully automatic air conditioner with a digital heater and control panel and floor mats are included as standard equipment. In addition, the Limited grade offers a keyless entry with a back window remote and an anti-theft system with an engine immobilizer. The Limited edition also offers superb sound quality as a Premium ETR/Cassette/CD radio with six speakers and a power and diversity antenna is standard.
 
Color and Trim
The Highlander package now comes in Millenium Silver in addition to Imperial Jade Mica and Black. Autumn Blaze Metallic has been dropped, there were no other changes made to the 1999 color chart. All 4Runner models are available in nine exterior colors: Millennium Silver Metallic, Imperial Jade Mica, Horizon Blue Metallic, Natural White, Dessert Dune Metallic, Black, Sunfire Red Pearl, Radiant Red and Stellar Blue Pearl. 4Runner exteriors are complemented with Gray or Oak cloth, or Oak leather trim interiors.
 
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 Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., reported 4Runner total calendar year-end sales of 111,797 units, down 10.0% from prior year.
 
2000 Standard Equipment, Optional Equipment and Specifications brochure (PDF)
2000 Color Chart
2000 4Runner Canadian Brochure (PDF) provided by nighthawk
 

2000


 
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