The 2008's identity crisis is partly solved, but as this is a mild update rather than ground-up rebuild, it was never going to be the CX-3 killer product planners dream about. With the new engine and transmission, though, the range is more appealing and easier to make sense of. It retains what made the car so original at launch, with the polarising i-Cockpit, clever-on-a-budget interior detailing and, as it turns out, it's a tough customer loved by rural folk. All of this won't rocket the Frenchie to market leadership, but it puts it in the mix where it was previously too confusing an idea for many buyers.
Pros New engine and trans combo Interior still cool CarPlay across the range
Cons Tight rear seats Grumbly engine at low revs Some cheap plastics
Previously overlooked small SUV gets a dose of credible performance from its new drivetrain.One of the legacy products from PSA (Peugeot and Citroen), the 2008 has been hamstrung since its local launch in 2013 by a poor selection of drivetrains. That is now resolved with the introduction of a facelifted model powered by the sparkling 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder, driving through a six-speed automatic transmission. A reversing camera and new connectivity technology further enhance the 2008 package, all for no more than $1000 extra at entry level. In the 2008 the new engine is quieter still than it was in the light hatch. The engine rarely made its presence felt in the SUV unless it was under load, accelerating up hill, for instance – when its distinctive three-cylinder warble could be clearly heard.
The new-look 2017 Peugeot 2008 has arrived,with the more muscled looking mini SUV axing its diesel engine offering and adding new safety and technology equipment. The new model range is a petrol only affair, with the brand’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and six-speed automatic transmission aimed at appealing squarely at the majority of front-wheel-drive SUV buyers. Styling wise, the revised 2008 sees the adoption of the brand’s family look, with a more pronounced grille, more angular bumper and revised headlights and tail-lights. The GT-Line model stands out from the other models with extra body cladding, black exterior highlights and more.
New 4Runner Trail Special Edition.Standard LED headlights for all 4Runners.TRD Pro trim gets new wheels and retuned shock absorbers.
Pros Lots of off-road capability Wide variety of configurations to suit many buyers Versatile cargo area, especially with the optional slide-out floor
Cons Choppy ride quality compared with more modern crossover SUVs V6 engine is not particularly fuel-efficient Tall step-in height makes for awkward entry and exit
The latest 4Runner adds a new limited-production Trail Edition for 2021. Toyota says it will only build 4000 copies, which are based on the base SR5 model and come with rear- or four-wheel drive. The Trail Edition is equipped with 17-inch dark gray TRD wheels and black exterior badges. Inside, it has black seats with tan stitching and all-weather floor mats.
Pros Highly capable off-road, roomy cargo hold, loads of standard driver assists.
Cons Poor fuel economy, sloppy on-road ride-and-handling, shabby interior materials.
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner is a hugely capable and cool throwback SUV with a modern price attached.
Pros Very capable Good looks Big touchscreen Old-school SUV Awesome TRD Pro versions.
Cons Outdated crash-test scores Old interior Dismal fuel economy Others are more comfortable
