Is The 4Runner Nightshade A Worthy SUV?

The Toyota 4Runner has been around for almost forty years in the States. In that time, we have seen every generation with several refreshes with the recent one. The 4Runner is marketed for families in need of an SUV. Now, there is a new edition trim level named "Nightshade" and it is quite the machine. But is it a worthy SUV to buy? Is it good for the family? Let's find out.

Exterior Styling

Yes, the 4Runner Nightshade is big and bulky like a tank. But it doesn't look too intimidating, does it? It looks a bit like that Pokemon Snubbull, with orthopedic headgear. Sure, it looks menacing but it can't be taken seriously. There is a lot of black trim like the mirrors, roof rails, external badges, rocker panels, door handle. Even the bumpers and rocker accents are painted chrome black. It just is ruined by every bit of chrome because it is all in the wrong places. The 20-inch alloy wheels are also painted black. And that is all that the Nightshade has to offer on the outside. When the doors open up, there is a powered step bar that comes down, to help those who are short, get in. All-in-all, it is just an ugly looking piece of machinery.

Interior Design

The interior of the 4Runner is designed to look like a command center in the front while the rest of the SUV is just vast amounts of space. Even if a family of four were inside, they would be considered to be practicing proper social distancing. Even the trunk is a bit massive, only after having the third row put down. The entire trim, be it plastic or leather, are black for the Nightshade trim. The seats are comfortable as well as heated and ventilated. The important controls such as the powered window switches and locks are on top of the door rest because that is usually the place people rest their arms on while driving. Not much of a masterpiece after the command center in any way.

Pricing and Options

So, how much does this 4Runner Nightshade cost? After everything, the total cost comes to $52,070. What does that get a potential owner? Well, for safety, the 4Runner comes with pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, vehicle stability control, traction control, ABS, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, smart stop technology, front and rear parking sonar, and a plethora of airbags. The government gave the 4Runner an overall score of "4 Stars." "3 Star" ratings go to to the categories of frontal passenger crash and rollover, with the only "4 Star" going to frontal driver crash. The only "5 Star" ratings going to side crashes on both sides. So, it is not the safest SUV made. For comfort and convenience, the 4Runner comes with sat-nav, 15 JBL sound system with a sub-woofer and amplifier, Bluetooth connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, heated and ventilated powered front seats, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and Wi-Fi hot spot. Note that the steering wheel is not heated.

Performance

The 4Runner's 4.0L V6 pushes a mere 270 horsepower and 278 pounds of torque. That isn't a lot considering it is a 4.0L instad of the 3.5L usually found in most Toyota models. Luckily, the suspension and steering help the 4Runner get along its way for the ride comfort. The suspension keeps everything smooth and comfortable. The steering is light but direct to keep the 4Runner going where the driver wants to go. Fuel economy was not too bad considering I achieved about 17 miles to the gallon for something the size of a tank.

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Conclusion

So, is the Nightshade 4Runner a worthy SUV? In short, not whatsoever. I would say steer clear of it only because if you're looking for a family SUV, it has an overall score of 4 stars and you have a better chance at surviving a crash if you are hit from the side and not the front. If you are looking at it from a consumer perspective and bang for your buck, I would stay away as well because of these 2 main things that irritated me; the steering wheel was not heated and the lift gate was not powered. Both features are found in SUVs that are cheaper and a lot more safer for that matter. I would not get a 4Runner, even if I was given one for free.

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