Yes, depending on the trim level, the Toyota 4Runner has four-wheel drive (4WD), either as standard or optional. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the two base trim levels, and 4WD is an option. Following that, trim levels offer either permanent 4WD or part-time 4WD. Additionally, locking differentials are an option.
The 4Runner is an adaptable off-roader thanks to these combinations. This car has additional advantages besides just that one. You see, Toyota is one of the few producers to heavily employ body-on-frame manufacturing. This technique entails fastening a body to a heavy-duty frame constructed of solid materials, as the name suggests.
The 4Runner’s off-roading capabilities are further improved by its ability to handle the roughest terrain. Additionally, this vehicle can generate torque in places most vehicles cannot due to its sturdy back axle. However, because it is heavier than many of its contemporary alternatives, it has a price. Highway speeds may result in a bumpier ride.
A versatile car that can transport you anywhere comes at a cost. Therefore, we’ll go over how the Toyota 4Runner’s 4WD functions and which variants have it if you’re interested in learning more about the ins and outs of this vehicle.
In This Article...
Have all Toyota 4Runners got four wheels?
The 4-liter V6 engine that powers all 2021 4Runner models can produce 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, but not all 4Runner models are four-wheel drive. The majority of 2021 trim levels let you choose between a four-wheel-drive variant and a rear-wheel-drive model. A 44 powertrain is available for all 2021 4Runner trim levels at the very least, if not as standard. Here, let’s take a closer look at the 2021 Toyota 4Runner’s off-road prowess.
The 4WD or 2WD Toyota 4Runner?
Rear-wheel drive is a standard feature on both of the two entry-level trim versions, the SR5 and the SR5 Premium. The 4Runner continues to carry the torch by providing rear-wheel drive as an option rather than front-wheel drive, which used to be the norm for SUVs.
If you plan to perform a lot of towing or even take the SUV off-road, rear-wheel drive is really preferable to front-wheel drive for an SUV. The weight of your car goes to the back whenever you try to speed, thus having rear-wheel drive will normally provide you superior traction.
What is part-time 4WD in the Toyota 4Runner?
Both the SR5 and SR5 Premium have part-time 4WD options. Part-time 4WD is a standard feature on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and TRD Pro. But what does the Toyota 4Runner’s part-time 4WD do?
What you are probably used to from four-wheel-drive systems is basically the part-time 4WD drive system. It has three modes, including a 2-high mode that provides rear-wheel drive and standard gearing. There is also a 4-high mode, which is standard four-wheel drive. There is a third option dubbed 4-low, which uses low gearing and four-wheel drive for the most torque and traction possible.
Is 4Runner a synonym for 4 wheel drive?
Full-time and part-time 4WD are the 2 types of 4WD systems that are available for the 4runner. While full-time models only have 4hi and 4lo, part-time models can switch between 2WD, 4hi, and 4lo. The middle differential can also be locked to evenly distribute front and rear torque.
The table below shows which 4runner models featured full-time 4 wheel drive and which had part-time 4 wheel drive:
What model of 4Runner has all-wheel drive?
For the 2020 Toyota 4Runner, there are two distinct four-wheel drive (4WD) systems available. In order to maintain traction on the ground, the SR5 4WD and TRD Off-Road trims use part-time 4WD with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC). The Limited trim level also offers a full-time 4WD system as an alternative. Both A-TRAC and a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a locking function are available with this drivetrain.
Wherever you go, you could run against different difficulties. This may involve a variety of situations, such as muddy, sandy, or rocky pathways. With Multi-terrain Select, you may select from four drive modes to assist you on your journey and ensure that your 4Runner responds as needed dependent on the terrain. So that you can concentrate on where you are steering, Crawl Control (CRAWL) controls your throttle utilizing five low-speed levels in the background. Taking a hilly route up or down? Every 2020 Toyota 4Runner comes standard with Hill Start Assist Control, which stops rollback. When traveling down a steep or slippery slope, Downhill Assist Control is available to keep you down at a reasonable pace.
Rear-wheel drive is a 4Runner?
Rear-, four-, or all-wheel drive can be paired with the 4.0-liter V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission of the 4Runner. All trim levels, with the exception of the top-of-the-line Limited model, have selectable, part-time four-wheel drive. Entry-level SR5 cars are rear-wheel drive. These models feature a low-range setting on a manually selectable two-speed transfer case. Full-time all-wheel drive is standard on Limited models, and they also contain a Torsen center differential that may distribute torque to the front or rear wheels as needed, depending on the grip of the individual wheels and the state of the road. In our tests, the mid-level 4Runner TRD Off-Road variant gave obedient acceleration, its vintage V-6 groaning and a harsh exhaust note accompanying it. Even though the Toyota feels dated while it is in motion, its performance is on par with that of its more contemporary rivals, such as the V-6 Dodge Durango. The Toyota also outperforms the Ford Edge and Wrangler in terms of towing ability, with a 5000-pound capacity, while falling short of the more potent Durango’s 8700-pound limit. This is due to the Toyota’s tough structure and torque-rich engine.
Can 4Runners handle snow well?
Toyota 4Runners perform well in the snow because to their 4WD and traction control systems, which can manage unexpected slips in hazardous winter driving conditions. The 4Runner’s nine-inch ground clearance and 6,300-pound weight are sufficient to provide the best traction in a variety of weather conditions.
In this post, we’ll talk about a variety of 4Runner features that make it possible for it to easily navigate snowy roads. We’ll also discuss whether your 4Runner needs snow boots, why snow tires are a necessity, and how to make it more weather-resistant.
What distinguishes 4WD and AWD from each other?
All-wheel drive, sometimes known as AWD, is a system that allows each of the four wheels to acquire traction on its own. AWD is normally constantly on, whereas 4WD has a toggle switch that allows you to switch between having it on and off.
How can I activate 4WD on my 4Runner?
Find the shift lever transfer on your center console to activate the four-wheel drive system in your 4Runner. Depending on your demands, you can choose between four-wheel drive high, four-wheel drive low, and two-wheel drive high with this shift lever.
Describe 4×2 4Runner.
4×4 refers to four wheels with four powered wheels, usually with simultaneous power to all four wheels. 4×2 refers to 4 wheels and 2 powered wheels, usually the rear wheels.