The 1998 Toyota 4Runner is a solid sport utility vehicle (SUV) with something to offer everyone. Like many less specialized SUV designs, it does not match the strengths of some of the more focused models but also does not share the weaknesses either. It offers competent performance under any condition and a large, spacious interior that works well for passengers or cargo space. Its competition is fairly stiff; it mostly does not have anything to really set it apart from other options, but the same can be said for almost all of its competitors. It is a solid choice that is worth a look for any driver in the market.
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner Limited, while somewhat rare, does distinguish itself a little bit over the base model and SR5. The Limited comes equipped with numerous features that enhance the comfort at a fairly modest price increase. Many of the competitors do not offer similarly appointed models, so the Limited can pull slightly ahead of the competition. It does not offer the same luxury as a true luxury SUV, but it is more comfortable than most of the competition without costing too much more.
The Range
Body Styles: SUV
Engines: 2.7-liter four-cylinder, 3.4-liter six-cylinder
Transmissions: four-speed automatic, five-speed manual
Models: Toyota 4Runner, Toyota 4Runner SR5, Toyota 4Runner Limited
What's New
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner is now equipped with four-spoke steering wheels.
Exterior
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner is a four-door SUV that measure 178.7 inches long and has a wheel base of 105.3 inches. It offers a roof rack, brush guard, trailer hitch, and fog lights as optional features. The Limited can also add a power moonroof as an option.
Interior
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner's interior features are not quite as robust as some of the more roadway-oriented competition but better than most of the off-road oriented ones. On the low end, the base model has little to offer beyond a cassette player, even air-conditioning is an optional feature. More options choices include power windows, locks, and mirrors. The SR5 is a little more robust in terms of features, but air conditioning is still optional. The Limited has the most luxurious interior with standard features such as power leather seats, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, air-conditioning, cruise control, and leather trim.
Performance & Handling
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner has good overall performance, especially compared to pre-1996 models. The on-road capabilities are adequate and better than many other SUVs on the market. It's not going to perform in the same league as a car or minivan, but it does not feel like a cumbersome pickup truck anymore. The off-road capabilities are still quite good. It's not quite in the same league as more powerful SUVs, but it can get through most off-road terrain without any issues.
Safety
The 1998 Toyota 4Runner models come with dual-front airbags. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are an optional addition for the base model and standard equipment for the SR5 and Limited.
EPA Fuel Economy
Toyota 4Runner, 2.7-liter four-cylinder, four-speed automatic: 17/20 mpg city/highway
Toyota 4Runner, 2.7-liter four-cylinder, five-speed manual: 15/20 mpg city/highway
Toyota 4Runner, 3.4-liter six-cylinder: 15/18 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
- Spacious interior
- Quiet engine
You Won't Like
- Poor fuel economy
- High price tag
- Air-conditioning optional on the Base and SR5
Sum Up
Toyota reliability and off-road power.
If You Like This Vehicle