The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that has garnered attention for its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities. Within the 4Runner lineup, the SR5 and SR5 Premium are two trim levels that offer a balance of features, performance, and affordability. While they share a common foundation, there are notable differences between these two trim levels. In this article, we will delve into the distinctions between the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium, helping you make an informed decision when choosing the right vehicle for your needs.
Introduction to the 2018 Toyota 4Runner
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner is a fifth-generation model, boasting a robust 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifting and efficient power delivery. The 4Runner is available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, catering to a wide range of driving preferences and conditions.
SR5 Trim Level
The SR5 is the base trim level of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner, offering a comprehensive set of standard features that include:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Entune Audio | A 6.1-inch touchscreen display with eight speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB port |
| LED Headlights | LED low-beam headlights with auto on/off feature and LED daytime running lights |
| Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) | A suite of safety features including pre-collision system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control |
The SR5 trim also features a 40/20/40 split-folding second-row seat, allowing for versatile cargo management and passenger accommodation. However, it lacks some premium amenities and advanced features found in higher trim levels.
SR5 Premium Trim Level
The SR5 Premium builds upon the foundation established by the SR5, adding numerous premium features and amenities. Some of the key enhancements include:
Interior Upgrades
The SR5 Premium boasts heated SofTex-trimmed front seats, providing warmth and comfort during cold weather conditions. Additionally, it features Entune Premium Audio with Navigation, which includes a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, 15 JBL speakers, and a suite of navigation and infotainment features.
Exterior Enhancements
The SR5 Premium also introduces roof rails and a moonroof, enhancing the vehicle’s functionality and aesthetics. These features not only add to the overall visual appeal but also provide increased versatility for outdoor enthusiasts.
Comparison of SR5 and SR5 Premium
When comparing the SR5 and SR5 Premium, several key differences emerge. The SR5 Premium offers a more comprehensive set of features, including advanced audio and navigation systems, heated seats, and exterior upgrades like roof rails and a moonroof. In contrast, the SR5 provides a more affordable entry point into the 4Runner lineup, with a focus on essential features and capabilities.
While both trim levels share the same engine and transmission, the SR5 Premium’s additional features and amenities may appeal to buyers seeking a more premium driving experience. However, for those prioritizing off-road performance and reliability, the SR5’s more straightforward approach may be sufficient.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the SR5 and SR5 Premium are capable off-road vehicles, with features like four-wheel drive and hill start assist control. The 4Runner’s body-on-frame design and high ground clearance also contribute to its impressive off-road prowess. Whether you’re navigating rugged trails or tackling inclement weather, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is well-equipped to handle challenging conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium offer distinct approaches to the mid-size SUV segment. While the SR5 provides a foundation of essential features and capabilities, the SR5 Premium builds upon this foundation with advanced amenities and premium upgrades. By understanding the differences between these two trim levels, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities, whether you’re seeking a reliable and affordable SUV or a more luxurious and feature-rich driving experience. Ultimately, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium are both viable options for those seeking a capable and durable SUV that can handle a wide range of driving conditions and activities.
What are the key differences between the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models?
The 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models have several key differences that set them apart. One of the main differences is the level of standard features and options available on each model. The SR5 Premium model comes with additional features such as heated front seats, a power moonroof, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass. In contrast, the SR5 model has a more basic feature set, with options such as a sliding rear cargo deck and a 120V AC power outlet.
In terms of performance and capabilities, both models are equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. However, the SR5 Premium model has a slightly more advanced suspension system, with a five-link coil-spring rear suspension and a double-wishbone front suspension. This provides a smoother ride and better handling on paved roads, while still maintaining the 4Runner’s renowned off-road capabilities. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including a blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.
How do the interior features of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models compare?
The interior features of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models have some notable differences. The SR5 model has a more basic interior, with standard features such as cloth-trimmed seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen display. In contrast, the SR5 Premium model has a more luxurious interior, with features such as SofTex-trimmed seats, a 120V AC power outlet, and an Entune Premium Audio system with a 15-speaker JBL subwoofer. The SR5 Premium model also has additional convenience features, such as a power moonroof and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with a compass.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more advanced infotainment system, with features such as navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a suite of connected services. The system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to integrate your smartphone with the vehicle’s infotainment system. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more comprehensive suite of convenience features, including a Homelink universal transceiver and a rear cargo area mat. Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich interior, making it a better option for those who value comfort and convenience.
What are the exterior differences between the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models?
The exterior of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models have some subtle differences. The SR5 model has a more basic exterior design, with standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, a roof rack, and a tow hitch receiver. In contrast, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium exterior design, with features such as 20-inch alloy wheels, a moonroof, and a chrome-accented grille. The SR5 Premium model also has additional exterior features, such as a rear spoiler and a hood scoop.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more comprehensive suite of exterior convenience features, including a power liftgate and a rearview camera with a projected path. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more advanced off-road capability, with features such as a part-time four-wheel-drive system and a locking rear differential. The SR5 Premium model also has a more premium exterior color palette, with options such as Blizzard Pearl and Midnight Black Metallic. Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich exterior, making it a better option for those who value style and capability.
How do the safety features of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models compare?
The safety features of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models have some notable differences. The SR5 model has a basic suite of safety features, including seven airbags, a rearview camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system. In contrast, the SR5 Premium model has a more comprehensive suite of safety features, including a blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, and a front and rear parking sensor system. The SR5 Premium model also has additional safety features, such as a lane departure warning system and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more advanced set of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and a lane tracing assist system. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more comprehensive suite of safety certifications, including a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich set of safety features, making it a better option for those who value safety and security.
What are the towing and payload capacities of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models?
The towing and payload capacities of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models are similar, with a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,700 pounds. However, the SR5 Premium model has a slightly more advanced towing system, with features such as a tow hitch receiver and a wiring harness with a 7-pin connector. The SR5 Premium model also has additional towing features, such as a trailer sway control system and a brake controller.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more comprehensive suite of towing and hauling features, including a heavy-duty battery and a more advanced alternator. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium set of towing and hauling accessories, including a roof rack and a cargo carrier. Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich towing and hauling system, making it a better option for those who value capability and versatility. The SR5 Premium model is also a better option for those who plan to use their vehicle for heavy-duty towing and hauling, such as boating or RVing.
How do the fuel economy and emissions of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models compare?
The fuel economy and emissions of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models are similar, with an estimated EPA rating of up to 17 mpg combined (15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway) and a Tier 3 Bin 125 emissions rating. However, the SR5 Premium model has a slightly more advanced fuel economy system, with features such as a variable valve timing system and a more efficient fuel injection system. The SR5 Premium model also has additional fuel-saving features, such as a more aerodynamic exterior design and a more efficient transmission.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more comprehensive suite of fuel economy and emissions features, including a more advanced engine management system and a more efficient exhaust system. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium set of fuel-saving technologies, including a more advanced engine start/stop system and a more efficient regenerative braking system. Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich fuel economy and emissions system, making it a better option for those who value efficiency and sustainability. The SR5 Premium model is also a better option for those who prioritize environmental responsibility and lower operating costs.
What are the warranty and maintenance costs of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models?
The warranty and maintenance costs of the 2018 Toyota 4Runner SR5 and SR5 Premium models are similar, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the SR5 Premium model has a slightly more comprehensive warranty package, with additional features such as a 5-year/60,000-mile corrosion warranty and a 2-year/25,000-mile maintenance warranty. The SR5 Premium model also has additional maintenance features, such as a more advanced maintenance scheduling system and a more comprehensive set of maintenance alerts.
The SR5 Premium model also has a more premium set of maintenance and repair technologies, including a more advanced onboard diagnostics system and a more efficient maintenance tracking system. Additionally, the SR5 Premium model has a more comprehensive suite of maintenance and repair services, including a more advanced roadside assistance program and a more efficient maintenance scheduling system. Overall, the SR5 Premium model has a more premium and feature-rich warranty and maintenance package, making it a better option for those who value peace of mind and lower operating costs. The SR5 Premium model is also a better option for those who prioritize reliability and durability.