Not everyone wants a standard grocery-getter, even if they have a large family.

Some folks, instead, like to get off the beaten path on occasion and want a large, rugged vehicle that allows them to do so.

One vehicle option that fits these parameters is the Toyota 4Runner, which I recently some time in, and I’m back with a full report on how it measures up.

LOOKS
In basic terms, the 4Runner is a large, rugged automobile that could in theory serve as the family ride, but doesn’t look or drive like most other vehicles that will show up in the pickup line at your kid’s elementary school. This isn’t trying to be a crossover -- it embraces being a true SUV.

It sits up high (you’ll have to step up into it, especially shorter folks), doesn’t try to be overly sleek and curvy, and focuses on the off-road capability that makes it unique from other vehicles on the market. It’s still somewhat attractive, and the exterior and interior have been revised for the 2014 model, but that’s not where the focus is on this vehicle.

There is plenty of storage space in back for any equipment you might need in your off-road adventures, and if you’re more in family mode you have the option of adding a third row to increase capacity to seven (though it’s best if that third row is reserved for little ones due to limited space).

In terms of overall look and feel (materials, instrument panel, etc.), this vehicle seemed more in the vein of “work truck” than “family vehicle”. Other rugged vehicles are definitely more posh inside and have more creature comforts.

ENGINE, HANDLING, OVERALL RIDE QUALITY
The 2014 Toyota 4Runner is powerd by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque. … There is no V8 engine option.

It’s a big car, so the drive is not exactly nimble. But it’s still fairly responsive for the size and the engine does an impressive job overall getting this large machine moving.
In terms of acceleration, again the weight restricts this aspect of the drive. You’ll get going, but getting up to speed from a stop takes longer than it will on smaller vehicles.

The 4Runner’s focus is on providing you with a tough vehicle that can handle what you throw at it, whether it be basic off-roading, getting through tough snow or mud conditions, or towing (5,000 pounds is max capacity -- a good but not outstanding number), and it succeeds.

My test vehicle featured the optional kinetic dynamic suspension system, which adjusts front and rear stabilizers in the best possible way based on a set of interconnected hydraulic cylinders, to enhance the off-road performance.

It’s also notable that just because this is intended to be an off-road capable vehicle, the ride on the main road is not bumpy or uncomfortable.

MPG
Being such a large vehicle, the 4Runner won’t wow you on gas mileage.
I got about 16 mpg during my time with the vehicle. Official numbers are 17 city/21 highway and 18 combined. You get a 23-gallon tank,so you can get about 400 miles out of a tank if much of your driving is on the highway.

TECH
Unlike the tech-heavy cars that fill lots these days, you get a more basic look inside the 4Runner, (i.e. -- less electronics up front; more old-school dials) to keep with the rugged look.
It’s not tech-limited, though, as you still get features like the Entune group of apps that connect your smartphone to your vehicle. The Entune connection works well, but setting it up can be a finicky process.
On positive on the tech end is that a rearview camera is standard, which is a great safety feature.

OTHER FEATURES
Other options on the 4Runner (some optional) include:
Locking glove box, rear child safety door locks, 5 12V DC power outlets, tinted windows,
intermittent front windshield wipers; fixed interval rear windshield wiper and power rear windshield.

Remote keyless entry is also offered, and there are plenty of cupholders throughout the vehicle, and bins for storage.

Safety features include: Front fog/driving lights
-- oil pressure/battery/low fuel/door ajar warnings
-- Service interval/Brake fluid/low tire pressure warnings
-- 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS)
-- Daytime running lights
-- Driver and passenger airbags; Driver side impact airbags; Passenger side impact airbags; Curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags
-- Front seatbelt pretensioners
-- Security system

PRICE
The 2014 Toyota 4Runner Trail Premium 4x4 V6 that I tested Starts at just over $38,600. The price climbed to $41,825 after adding the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and other features.
The base model of the Toyota 4Runner will cost you $32,820.Trim levels offered are SR5, Trail and Limited. SR5 and Limited vehicles come in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, while the Trail is only four-wheel drive.

BOTTOM LINE
If you want a Toyota but are heading off the beaten path and don’t want a typical family SUV, the 4Runner is a solid option to consider; though I’d also recommend looking at the Jeep Grand Cherokee and other competitors in the large rugged vehicle segment..