The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV produced by Toyota since 1984, known as the Toyota Hilux Surf in Japan until it was discontinued in 2009. Initially a compact SUV based on the Hilux pickup truck with a shell over the bed, it has evolved into a cross between a compact and mid-size SUV over six generations. Production took place in Japan at Toyota's Tahara plant and Hino Motors' Hamura plant.
The name "4Runner" was coined by copywriter Robert Nathan in collaboration with the Saatchi & Saatchi advertising agency, inspired by the term "forerunner." The agency conducted naming contests for upcoming Toyota models.
Key points:
1. The Toyota 4Runner is a popular SUV that has been available globally since 1984.
2. Known as the Toyota Hilux Surf in Japan, it underwent significant development from a compact SUV based on the Hilux pickup truck.
3. The 4Runner has evolved into a crossover between a compact and mid-size SUV over six generations.
4. All 4Runners have been manufactured in Japan at Toyota's Tahara plant or Hino Motors' Hamura plant.
5. The name "4Runner" was created by Robert Nathan and Saatchi & Saatchi as a clever play on the term "forerunner".
