True to its roots, the redesigned 4Runner is an off-road-capable SUV, sharing a platform with the Land Cruiser.
The SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Sport Premium trims come with a 278-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Higher trims get the punchier 326-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder engine.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 4Runner is available in two-, part-time four-, and full-time four-wheel-drive versions.
On the road ride and handling are not the most refined but docile enough considering the off-road prowess.
The interior features more modern amenities than before, with screen sizes dependent on trim level.
The second-row seat tumbles forward to aid cargo versatility.
And yes, the rear window on the liftgate powers up and down--a traditional 4Runner characteristic.
Notable Changes
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2010-2024
2010 Model Redesign Year
By 2010, almost every mid-sized SUV had moved to a car-based design, but the Toyota 4Runner remained one of the last full-framed, truck-based SUV holdouts on the market.
That makes it especially suited to off-roading.
Otherwise, the 2010 redesign felt like a step backwards from the previous refined generation.
The unsettled ride, mediocre handling, cheap interior, high-step-in, and low ceiling left us unimpressed.
Limited trim versions have a sports suspension with somewhat better control, but a stiffer ride.
The 4.0-liter V6 engine is powerful, but roars when accelerating.
Fuel economy of 18 mpg overall is decent for this brick-shaped SUV.
Controls are simple, with big buttons and knobs, but the touch screen is relatively small.
A tight third-row seat is optional.
Truck-based SUVs are generally known for their towing ability, but the 4Runner's rating isn't appreciably higher than some better-driving, car-based competitors. All 2020 models get the Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) as standard equipment, which includes forward collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Also, all versions get a standard 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
Like traditional SUVs, the 4Runner is based on a full truck-based frame and is especially suited for serious off-roading.
It doesn't provide the nimble, carlike handling of car-based SUVs, but among old-school SUVs, the 4Runner was better than most peers.
This generation was surprisingly refined, with a reasonably comfortable ride and a very quiet cabin.
Lively and responsive, the smooth 4.0-liter V6 returns only 16 mpg overall.
A silky smooth 4.7-liter V8 is also available.
Stability control is standard.
Thanks to near-bulletproof durability and a subsequent 2010 redesign that cheapened the car, this generation is highly sought on the used market, keeping prices high.
Based on Toyota's compact pickup, the 4Runner is a traditional truck-based SUV.
In pre-'96 models, neither the four-cylinder nor the V6 engine is very strong.
The rear seat and cargo area are tight.
A 1996 redesign significantly improved this model's ride, powertrain, and interior packaging.
A longer wheelbase and lower floor provide more cargo space and rear leg room.
A low seat and high floor makes access a chore and the driving position awkward.
We prefer the lively 3.4-liter V6 to the 2.7-liter Four.
The V6 and stability control became standard on all models in 2001.
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