More than ever, given styling changes for 2006 that included a more massive front bumper, more prominent overfenders and body cladding, the 4Runner looks off-road rugged and ready to hit the dusty trail.

Backing up that contention are skid plates for the engine, transfer case and fuel tank, which come standard on 4WD models. (Even 2WD models get the engine and fuel tank skid plates.) A molded-in step adds a functional look to the broad rear bumper.

Visual cues distinguish the three trim levels. Bumpers are body-color on all three models. On the SR5, however, the grille, door handles, and license-plate trim are chrome, and running boards are painted black. The Sport is distinguished by its hood scoop and a smoked-chrome effect for the grille and headlamp trim, and by a graphite-and-black roof rack. Tubular side steps replace the SR5's running boards. The Limited has a body-color grille, black roof rack and black running boards, which are illuminated. The standard aluminum-alloy wheels have six spokes on SR5 and Sport Edition; five on Limited, and they grow from 16 inches to 17 to 18 as you move up the line.

4Runner's windshield, side windows, and side mirrors are made of hydrophilic glass and repel water like a waxed car or a window that has been treated with Rain-X. The glass causes water to form large drops, which are quickly shed by gravity or wind. The side mirrors are angled out to increase the driver's field of view. The available moonroof includes a two-stage wind deflector designed to reduce wind noise when traveling above 55 mph.

The high floor and low roof are side effects of a practical SUV design to pull the ground clearance up as high as possible while keeping the overall profile low for stability and clearance.