We went hands-on with the handsome all-new Tacoma-based 4Runner and found out why fans are going to line up at dealers soon.
It’s rare that automakers let a single platform underpin a car for over a decade. When they do, it tends to be a model that all but prints money. The fifth generation 4Runner was one such SUV and dated all the way back to before 2010. Now, it’s all-new and it goes back to its roots while improving practically every feature. We had a chance to go hands-on with it and here’s what we’ve learned.
The new 4Runner finds what sounds like the perfect blend of new and old-school styling. The shape is similar to the outgoing model but adds more angular design language. While this new SUV is closely related to the Tacoma (we’ll detail that shortly), it’s not just a carbon copy of that truck but with an enclosed rear end.
Instead, elements like the headlights, grille, and windows all get their own unique details. Toyota partnered with Rigid Industries to add high-end fog lights and even an LED light bar to some trim levels. The 4Runner doesn’t lose its signature exterior features either.
The roll-down rear window is still present and owners can use a button in the cab, one on the tailgate, or one on the fob to control it. In addition, the rear side windows wrap around from the side of the SUV to the roof just slightly in honor of previous 4Runner generations.
The 4Runner is also going to come in Toyota’s relatively new Trailhunter trim. Essentially, this is a turn-key overlanding rig that’ll likely cost north of $60,000. It comes standard with 4WD, all-terrain tires, shocks from Old Man Emu, and the new i-Force MAX engine.
What really makes the 4Runner tick is its new drivetrain and powertrain options. Toyota will sell it with two different engines. The base model is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than the outgoing V6 (the only engine available on the last-gen 4Runner).
At the same time, it’s expected to achieve at least 22 mpg combined which is a dramatic improvement on the current engine which achieves less than 20 combined. Notably, the base engine is available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The only gearbox available is an eight-speed automatic.
Above the base engine is a hybridized version of the 2.4-liter engine. It makes 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. Dubbed the i-Force MAX, it only comes with four-wheel drive and the same eight-speed auto as the base engine.
An automatic limited-slip differential on the rear axle is standard across the lineup regardless of 2WD or 4WD. We expect the hybrid engine to get around 23 mpg combined. If accurate, it’ll be one of the best combinations of power and fuel economy in this segment.
The cabin of the 4Runner is almost identical to that of the latest Tacoma. Those who have already seen and experienced Toyota’s latest mid-size truck will immediately recognize the design in the 4Runner. The steering wheel, dash design, infotainment system, and center console are all carryover items. That’s not a bad thing though as the original 4Runner was basically a Tacoma with a cargo cover over the rear end.
The materials throughout the cabin are built for long-term use rather than simple aesthetics. Some soft-touch materials appear nicer than others, but the cabin is business first and luxury second. An 8-inch infotainment system comes standard, but most trims will get a 14-inch version that looks far more appropriate. It’s an upsized version of the same user interface found in other Toyota products.
That said, we expect it to be quick and easy to navigate despite not being the most attractive system out there. Beneath the infotainment system is a bevy of physical control knobs and switches for the climate control system. That’s a welcome addition as is the available wireless device charger and the several off-road modes available in the center console.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the 4Runner is going to be available with a third row. We didn’t get a chance to see it in action but here’s what we can tell you. Those who plan to use a third row often should consider the Sequoia. Once it’s available on the 4Runner, that third row is going to be very cramped. It also could be exclusive to the non-hybrid version as the battery gets stored under the cargo area, which would be hard to do with a third row. We’ll know more in the next few months.
As of this writing, Toyota hasn’t released a few important details. For example, we’re not sure exactly when it’s arriving aside from “this fall.” In addition, Toyota hasn’t announced pricing for the 4Runner, but we have some hints about what it’ll end up being. The current model starts at just over $40,000 and rises to $55,000. That’s a good starting point. Keep in mind that the new Tacoma costs up to $65,395. Don’t be surprised if the new 4Runner ends up with a similarly expensive top end.