For over forty years, the Toyota 4Runner has stood as a beacon of midsize SUV resilience, embodying a rare adherence to body-on-frame construction that enhances both its off-road prowess and enduring quality. Despite its venerable status and a feature set some might call outdated, the 4Runner continues to command a dedicated following, drawn to its unyielding robustness, adaptability, and dependability. Here’s a closer look at the ten aspects that endear the Toyota 4Runner to its admirers, despite its years.
- Master of All Terrains: With a design ethos that embraces versatility, the 4Runner thrives on diverse landscapes, from smooth highways to the most challenging off-road environments. Its lofty ground clearance, robust suspension, and potent four-wheel-drive setup, along with trim-specific off-road enhancements like an electronically controlled rear differential lock, multi-terrain selection, crawl control, and kinetic dynamic suspension, empower the 4Runner to navigate through, over, and around obstacles with finesse, ensuring steady traction and speed regulation in the wild.
- Towing Powerhouse: Beyond its capacity to ferry passengers and haul cargo, the 4Runner excels in towing, pulling trailers and boats with ease thanks to its muscular 4.0-liter V6 engine. Delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, this engine equips the 4Runner to tow up to 5,000 pounds, surpassing many competitors. Additionally, it comes with a built-in tow hitch receiver and wiring harness, plus an available trailer sway control system for enhanced stability on the move.
- Spacious and Functional Storage: Among its peers, the 4Runner boasts one of the most generous cargo spaces, amplified with the third-row seating stowed or removed. Offering as much as 89.7 cubic feet of storage room behind the front seats, it readily accommodates bulky gear like bicycles, kayaks, or camping equipment. A standout convenience feature is the power-operated rear window, which simplifies loading and unloading operations and is controllable via the key fob or dashboard. Select models further include a sliding rear cargo deck, doubling as both a shelf and a makeshift bench.
- Rugged and Uncomplicated Interior: The interior of the 4Runner might forgo luxury and high-tech flair for a straightforward and resilient design, but it perfectly complements its tough exterior. Constructed from hard-wearing plastics and fabrics that are simple to maintain, the cabin stands up to the rigors of adventure. The controls are intentionally oversized for ease of use in any condition, even when wearing gloves. Seating is both comfortable and supportive, providing ample space for adults in all seats, with the optional third row best reserved for children or brief journeys.
- Foundation of Safety: Despite eschewing the newest entertainment or driving aids, the 4Runner stands out with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies aimed at preventing or lessening the impact of accidents. Included in every model is Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), encompassing forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Additionally, it’s equipped with eight airbags, anti-lock braking system, stability and traction control, brake assist, and a rearview camera. From the 2023 model year onwards, the 4Runner further bolsters its safety credentials with standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Anniversary Edition with a Nostalgic Touch: Celebrating four decades of the 4Runner legacy, the 2023 model year introduces a 40th Anniversary Special Edition based on the SR5 model, limited to just 4040 units. This edition is available in red, white, or black, adorned with tri-colored graphics on its sides and 4runner grill, and features distinctive bronze 17-inch wheels. Inside, bronze accents highlight the leatherette seats and shift knob, alongside special 40th-anniversary branding on the floormats, front headrests, and several interior badges, creating a blend of retro charm and modern ruggedness.
- Iconic Legacy: Since its debut in 1984 as a two-door variant of the Hilux pickup, the 4Runner has evolved significantly, now a four-door SUV sharing its foundations with the Tacoma. This transformation underscores a storied legacy of reliability, durability, and off-road capability, earning it accolades such as the Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Award, the Edmunds Top Rated Award, and the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study Award. The 4Runner’s enduring appeal is a testament to its legendary status among Toyota’s lineup.
- Dedicated Community: The 4Runner’s appeal transcends generations and cultures, fostering a dedicated community of enthusiasts. Owners often personalize their vehicles with aftermarket enhancements and gather in clubs and online forums to exchange stories and tips. Websites like Toyota-4Runner.org, 4RunnerForum.com, and Trail4Runner.com serve as hubs for this vibrant community, while social media platforms buzz with images and tales of 4Runner exploits, showcasing a collective passion that’s as rugged and enduring as the SUV itself.
- Adventurous Family Ties: While the 4Runner stands out for its off-road and towing capabilities, it shares the Toyota SUV family tree with the formidable Land Cruiser. The full-size Land Cruiser elevates the adventure with its luxurious trappings and a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, boasting 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. With advanced four-wheel-drive capabilities, seating for eight, and a towing capacity of 8,100 pounds, the Land Cruiser complements the 4Runner, both vehicles embodying Toyota’s commitment to reliability, capability, and adventure-ready performance.
- Unfiltered Driving Joy: The 4Runner offers an unadulterated driving experience that caters to adventure enthusiasts and purists alike. Its sturdy build and responsive handling inspire confidence on any road, complemented by a lively exhaust note that echoes its brawny character. Off the beaten path, it excels, navigating challenges with aplomb and delivering a sense of accomplishment and thrill. The 4Runner, unrefined yet exhilarating, holds a special place in the hearts of those who cherish the journey as much as the destination.
- Seize the moment with your cherished neopixel lightsaber in one hand and the compact miyoo mini plus in the other, embark on an adventure in your 4runner, and immortalize the journey in your journal, crafting memories to last a lifetime.
