2004 Toyota 4Runner

I chose the 4Runner based upon past experience with Toyota and the high resale value. I live on the front range of Colorado and thus wanted a 4x4 as we get quite a bit of winter snow and do frequent trips to the mountains. I purchased certified used in 4/2006. Since then I have put over 20K miles on the vehicle. It averages about 20.5 miles per gallon with the very capable V-6 and I typically get 24-25 MPH highway. It does better than I'd expected on mountain passes, even when loaded. Gauges are positioned well but during day time driving it is difficult to see the gauges, both on the dash and heating/air conditioning controls. The lights on the dash and controls simply need to be brighter! Ours has a sun roof which is nice to have, but it takes away about 2 inches of ceiling space. I prefer an almost vertical seat position when I drive and my head is within an inch of the roof which is annoying.(I'm 5'10")Also I have had chronic problems with the motor on the sun roof when it is fully open. Every so often you can hear the motor run in the sun roof like it's trying to open, even though it is already fully open. I have avoided getting this fixed as I understand it to be at least a $500 repair. It has running boards that I think are more for looks than function as the 4Runner is already low enough you don't need them to get in. If you DO use them you will hit your head on the relatively small door opening. The 4x4 is now accessed with a dial vs. the old floor shifter which I preferred. It has traction control, which is useful, especially if you are in 2 wheel drive and hit black ice. The front bucket seats are comfortable but I wish there was about 3 inches more leg room. I can't straighten out my legs fully on long trips which makes my knees ache after 100 plus miles. The 4Runner was re-designed in 2003 and reportedly is a bit more spacious. It doesn't feel much if any more roomy than my 1992 extended cab pick up. (Of course I weigh 30 lbs more now)It has better than I'd expected power out of the smooth 4.0 liter v-6. The ride is solid and I feel confident with it in snow even though my tire tread is not very aggressive. Over all a good vehicle but I think more suited for people 5'6" or less.