2023 Toyota 4Runner Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
If you're shopping for a midsize crossover , skip the 4Runner—it's not a crossover at all. Rather, it's a real-deal SUV, built using body-on-frame construction and riding on a solid rear axle. First introduced in 1983 , the 4Runner is designed to provide real off-road capability that exceeds that of its road-oriented crossover competitors. The current fifth-generation 4Runner went on sale for model year 2010, making it one of the oldest new cars still on sale.
What's New
- 40th Anniversary Special Edition introduced with rad stripe decals
- Solar Octane orange paint newly offered on TRD Pro
- Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear-seat occupant reminder become standard on all trims
What We Think
At this point, Toyota isn't even trying to hide how old the 4Runner is. Rather, it seems to celebrate the 4Runner's age, positioning it as a feature that simply can't be found in other SUVs. Indeed, there's nothing quite like the 4Runner out there—for better and for worse.
For better, the 4Runner has proven itself over a now 13-year production run. With its frame-based construction, real four-wheel drive, and off-roading assistance features, the 4Runner's hardware predisposes it to true trail capability. Meanwhile, its big V-6 and five-speed transmission are dependable, helping secure the 4Runner repeat Good and Excellent IntelliChoice value ratings.
For worse—basically everything else. The 4Runner's road manners are ponderous, not aided by the sluggish powertrain. On top of that, it burns fuel at an impolite rate. Toyota has attempted to keep the 4Runner fresh by equipping it with newer technology and driver-assist features, but those are at least a generation behind the company's latest systems. And although cargo capacity is good, second-row legroom isn't.
Bottom line: If you want an easygoing, versatile, efficient vehicle for everyday use, don't get a 4Runner—choose one of its many newer crossover competitors instead. But if you want a rig that's trail-ready straight from the factory, the 4Runner is a time-tested choice. Even so, some crossovers can challenge it when the pavement ends.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 4Runner's engine is a 4.0-liter V-6 that makes 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque, which is routed through an old-school five-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, although four-wheel drive—not all-wheel drive—is available. MotorTrend's test team has measured 0-60 mph times between 7.5 and 8.0 seconds from different 4Runner variants over the years. Expect fuel economy for the 2023 4Runner to be just as terrible as last year: 16/19 mpg city/highway.
The Retro 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition
The original 4Runner was revealed in 1983 as a 1984 model. Toyota's math may therefore be slightly fuzzy to call 2023 the 4Runner's 40th anniversary, but regardless a special edition model commemorates the milestone. The 2023 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition is based on the SR5 Premium trim, and is equipped with standard four-wheel drive and a moonroof. But what really makes it stand out are the throwback-tastic stripe decals slathered on the side. Noteworthy as well are the bronze-hued 17-inch wheels borrowed from the 4Runner TRD Pro. Bronze stitching also weaves its way through the interior. Offered in red, black, or white paint, only 4,040 examples of the 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition will be built.
When Will the 6th-Generation 4Runner Come Out?
Nostalgia can only carry the 4Runner so far. At some point, Toyota will have to redesign its classic off-roader. Trail-ready engineering is sure to remain a focus on the future, sixth-generation 4Runner, but hopefully Toyota will otherwise make it thoroughly modern. Expect hybridization to be a theme, as seen on the recently redesigned Toyota Tundra truck and Sequoia SUV. Interior spaciousness and packaging should be improved. Modish technology appointments like a larger infotainment touchscreen and digital gauge cluster should be available. Likewise, there's little doubt that Toyota will apply its latest safety and driver-assist features. What's unclear is when the next-generation 4Runner will actually be revealed—Toyota seems quite content selling every example of the current model it can make. Our best guess is that it'll hit the scene for model year 2025 or 2026.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 4Runner has consistently earned mediocre scores from the NHTSA for many years: a four-star overall rating, comprised of a four-star front, five-star side, and three-star rollover scores. Similarly, its IIHS scores haven't changed in a long time: the top Good result in four tests, with a second-worst Marginal assessment in a fifth.
For 2023, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear seat occupant warning become standard on all grades. Those are in addition to other Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) driver-assist features, which include front automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. However, that final feature is an old system that doesn't work below 25 mph. Eight airbags are equipped on all 2023 4Runners.
Is the 4Runner a 3-Row SUV?
As standard, the 4Runner is equipped with a two-row, five-passenger seating arrangement. Certain trim grades are offered with a third-row seat for seven-passenger capacity. Legroom isn't great in the second or third rows, but at least cargo capacity is generous.
Technology
Every 4Runner trim is equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, and built-in navigation is added further up the trim walk. Five USB ports are distributed between the seats. An eight-speaker audio system is standard, and a 15-speaker JBL premium arrangement is available.
Is the TRD Pro the Best 4Runner Trim?
Our choice in the 4Runner range is the SR5 Premium, one step up from the base SR5. Doing so brings niceties like leatherette upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, a split-folding second row, and auto-dimming rearview mirror. The SR5 Premium is somewhat basic, but its features cover enough bases. Opting for four-wheel drive is a must—this is a 4Runner, after all.
Why not choose one of the 4Runner's higher, ostensibly better trims? The TRD Pro tempts with its burly looks and capability, but it's not worth the insane dealer markups unless you're doing some serious off-roading (or desperately desire to look like you do). If the upscale Limited trim has your eye, shift your gaze to any competitor crossover, which will prove more comfortable and fuel-efficient.
