Next, hold off on purchasing a new Toyota 4Runner because it will probably come with a hybrid option. Toyota hasn’t yet announced a hybrid vehicle, but it makes perfect sense for it to do so with the following generation. HotCars claims that the present 4.0-liter V6 engine will be replaced by an effective four-cylinder. Don’t be depressed about the lost cylinders, though. The 4Runner will actually gain power thanks to the same 2.4-liter inline-four seen in the 2022 Lexus NX 350. More specifically, compared to the existing V6, the new engine delivers 275 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque.
To satisfy ardent 4Runner fans, the company is also probably going to provide a more potent engine choice. HotCars speculates that it will either be a high-performance option such as the 400-horsepower V6 located under the hood of the next Tundra pickup truck, which will only be offered in the TRD Pro edition. Last but not least, Toyota intends to release a hybrid version of each car in its lineup by 2025. Since the RAV4 Prime’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder is a hybrid, we anticipate the 4Runner will utilize one as well in 2023. The hybrid engine of the RAV4 Prime produces 302 horsepower.
In This Article...
Will the 4Runner in 2023 be a hybrid?
According to Model Preview Reports, the 4Runner will undergo a complete makeover in 2024 with a new exterior, a hybrid powertrain that is optional, and more cutting-edge amenities. A 40th Anniversary Special Edition 4Runner with a distinctive design and restricted production will be the greatest 2023 4Runner makeover.
Will Toyota release a new 4Runner?
A new 4Runner is not included in a 2022 Toyota dealer roadmap that was leaked. For the 2023 model year, Toyota has already revealed upgrades to the 5th generation 4Runner. Therefore, the sixth-generation 4Runner won’t likely appear until 2023 for the 2024 model year, at the earliest.
Toyota is switching to their new TNGA-F truck chassis for their body-on-frame pickup trucks and SUVs. It serves as the foundation for the brand-new Land Cruiser, Tundra, Lexus LX 600, and Sequoia. It should be employed in a reduced size for both the new Tacoma pickup and the 4Runner.
The 4Runner has typically been produced in Japan, much like the Land Cruiser. Is it possible for Toyota to move some or all of the 4Runner manufacture to North America with the new shared platform?
Probably. Toyota will want the 4Runner to have higher fuel efficiency. This most certainly entails turbocharging, a transmission with more than five gears, and an engine with a smaller displacement than the 4.0-liter V6.
The 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged from the brand-new Lexus NX 350, which produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, is the front-runner for the base engine (substantially more torque than the current V6).
Higher trim In order to compete with the Wrangler and Bronco, 4Runners can offer an improved engine option. However, that might not be the Tundra’s 3.5-liter V6 with 400 horsepower.
Yes. By 2025, Toyota wants every model to include a hybrid option. Tundra provides a hybrid. There is just one hybrid version of the Sequoia. The 4Runner ought to do the same. How will be in doubt.
One Toyota analyst thinks the 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged engine might be replaced with a new hybrid version for the 4Runner. Other options may be a plug-in hybrid vehicle like the RAV4 Prime or a full-on assault on the Bronco and Wrangler using the Tundra’s V6 hybrid, which has 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. We’re not holding out much hope for the latter choice.
The new Tundra’s interior underwent a significant renovation, as seen below. Toyota’s latest infotainment system, which debuted on the Lexus NX with an optional 14-inch touchscreen, should be adopted by the 4Runner. Toyota typically doesn’t strive to impress customers with the quality of its inside materials. But anticipate some small improvements to help fend off competitors.
The Toyota EV plan was first revealed last winter. The designs on display were a strange Compact Cruiser and an electric pickup. Nothing resembling a 4Runner was on show. We wouldn’t be shocked to see a 4Runner that runs entirely on electricity. But if one did, we would be astonished.
Toyota may be developing an electric 4Runner.
Let’s look at what to anticipate from the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, which should arrive on the market sometime this year.
The 4Runner is a spectacular new mid-size part-electric SUV from Toyota that will make its debut in 2023. In recent years, the antiquated technology of previous models has revealed its shortcomings. It’s clear that the most recent model, which was released in 2009, needs some TLC because it has features that are more than a decade old and only minimal enhancements.
With the new 2023 Toyota 4Runner, customers who desire an SUV with the tough good looks and all-terrain adaptability of a monstrous truck will still have plenty of options. Unlike many more civilized competitors that are all too frequent on the expanding market, the new model does retain the traditional architecture that is seen in most hard-working pickups.
It’s hard to argue against the Toyota 4Runner’s continued status as one of the most coveted and appealing SUVs on the road today. It’s possible, nearly bulletproof, and most importantly, it just looks amazing. It is more than competent. It’s cool, like we stated, but its most recent model, which was released in 2009, is now archaic and out of date.
The 2023 4Runner’s highway mileage was less than 20 mpg, and its five-speed automated transmissions have only half as many gears as the new Ford Bronco. Undoubtedly overdue, the 4Runner needs an update right away. It appears that we won’t have to wait long for one to show up.
Is the 4Runner being discontinued by Toyota?
Learn about the two grades of the Toyota 4Runner that will be replaced in 2022. What happens next, too?
We get a lot of fresh facts about the cars we adore at this time of year.
For the 2022 4Runner model year, anticipate Toyota will discontinue the Nightshade Special Edition and Venture Special Edition.
Toyota intends to swap these out for something altogether different. Something that has not yet been named or identified.
In the upcoming weeks, a formal announcement is anticipated. But for the time being, all we can do is wait and watch.
The transition to a new 4Runner grade the following year excites me, but I also regret seeing Nightshade go. One of my favorite 4Runner trims was this one.
For the 2019 model year, the 4Runner Nightshade was released as a sportier alternative to the 4Runner Limited.
Enjoy this video in which Sierra and I contrast the 4Runner Limited and 4Runner Nightshade.
RAV4 or 4Runner, which one is superior?
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner provides more space and power, while the Toyota RAV4 gets better gas mileage while maintaining high performance levels. After reading the comparison between the Toyota 4Runner and RAV4 for 2021, get in touch with Jim Hudson Toyota to schedule a test drive of each vehicle.
What will a Toyota 4Runner cost in 2023?
Price: The base price of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is anticipated to be around $37,000. The SUV of choice for buyers who appreciate the rugged charm and all-terrain versatility of a body-on-frame truck is still the 2023 Toyota 4Runner.
Toyota plans to update the 4Runner for 2023.
A 40th Anniversary Special Edition of the Toyota 4Runner will be available in 2023. The unique version, which is limited to 4040 units, has cool tri-colored stripes and bronze 17-inch rims. Toyota will make rear cross-traffic warning and blind-spot monitoring standard on all 4Runners starting in 2023.
The 4Runner might get a V8.
When contrasting the V6 and V8 versions of the 4th generation 4runner, I believe this final point is sometimes missed. When determining which model to purchase, specs, ratings, and performance testing all have a place and are highly helpful.
Having personally driven both models, I can tell you that there are some things that just don’t translate on paper. They are an element of the driving experience that can be felt and heard but are not likely to be detected by tests.
Sound
A V6 and a V8 4runner’s sound really differ from one another. While they have their reasonably quiet factory exhausts, it might not be as noticeable, but when they are modified, the difference is night and day.
It doesn’t necessary sound horrible to install a cat back exhaust on a V6, but it won’t exactly win you any admirers. However, a V8 4runner with upgraded exhaust will emit a loud growl that many unaware onlookers would never anticipate coming from a little Toyota SUV. The 2UZ engine has a lovely sound and gives you the impression that you are operating a premium vehicle.
The V6 is an engine that is notably louder, aside from the exhaust note. They are renowned for producing a stronger ticking and tapping sound than the V8.
Smoothness
All 4th generation 4runners felt supple and well-made thanks to Toyota’s excellent design. However, when it moves through the rpm range, the V8 is smoother than the V6. This is sometimes cited as the sole justification for Toyota’s exclusive use of the V8 in Lexus cars.
Amount of effort required
The amount of effort required to get the 4runner rolling is another difference between the V6 and V8 drives that you’ll notice. The V8 does this with easily and seems to never be working very hard. In contrast to the V8, the V6 needs more than just a little tap on the accelerator to accelerate swiftly.
An engine that doesn’t have to work hard is more likely to live longer, according to those who are concerned about reliability. However, there’s no reason to think that either of these Toyotas’ engines is more dependable than the other; they’re both excellent in that regard.
The V6 4runner can have trouble navigating steep ascents when it is overburdened with passengers and extra weight. The V8 won’t even perspire in the same scenario. Both will accomplish the job, but the V8 will do it more quietly, with less vibration, and at a lower RPM and temperature.
Rarity and future value
A V6 engine has been available in every iteration of 4runner. However, V8s are only available in vehicles from 2003 to 2009. The 4th Gen is the only one of the 5 generations to have a V8 engine. Furthermore, Toyota will never again install a V8 engine in the 4runner given the way the car market seems to be moving.
They are highly unique as a result. If the collector car market has taught us anything, it is that special editions of well-known cars will always stand out and be in high demand. The V8 4runner is an innocent-looking small hot rod that might someday be valuable as a collection.
The popularity of the V8 4runners is already becoming apparent. There aren’t many items offered for sale at any given moment on the used market, as you can see. The asking prices for the ones you do find are frequently rather exorbitant. Is this an indication that the values have peaked and will soon start to rise? All we can do is wait and see.
Again, the V6 models are in perfect condition. They were all popular and had a V6; it’s just that they mix in with all the previous 4runner generations and all the other platforms, such the Tacoma and FJ Cruiser.
Check out this video for a far more skewed viewpoint on the subject:
The 4Runner will it go hybrid?
By 2025, Toyota has committed to offering a hybrid version of every model. Given that Toyota recently unveiled the hybrid Toyota Tundra for 2022, the Toyota 4Runner will be a member of that lineup. The V6 i-Force Max brings the hybrid option to the Toyota Tundra.
A Toyota 4Runner can travel how many miles?
You might get 300,000 miles out of a Toyota 4Runner. In reality, the majority of the data indicates that only 0.2% of 4Runner models will endure for more than 300,000 km.
Jeep Wrangler versus 4Runner: Which is superior?
Let’s start by examining the dimensions of these two SUVs. The 2018 4Runner measures 71.5 inches in height, 191.3 inches in width, and 75.8 inches in length overall. The 2018 Jeep Wrangler measures 73.7 inches in width, 184.9 inches in length overall, and 72.6 inches in height.
There are 46.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the second row of seats and 88.8 cubic feet behind the first in the 2018 4Runner TRD Pro. There are 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row of seats and 70.6 cubic feet behind the first in the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon.
The Toyota 4Runner offers you a larger size and substantially more cargo room than the Jeep Wrangler, as this comparison demonstrates.
Interior Differences
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro’s cabin has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display, GPS, eight speakers, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, HD Radio, satellite radio, and a rearview camera, among other features and technologies.
Standard amenities for the Jeep Rubicon include a 7-inch touchscreen Uconnect system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio.
There are some noticeable changes in the interiors of these two cars. While they both have some useful features, the 4Runner has a more pleasant interior and more options. The Wrangler, however, maintains its reputation as an off-road vehicle thanks to features like a wash-out cabin. The Wrangler cannot provide you with the comfort and style the 4Runner can.
Off-Road Features and Capabilities
It’s important to evaluate these two vehicles’ off-road capabilities and features. You get a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 horsepower in the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. Additionally, this car has off-road capabilities including a standard electronic locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain choose. A 1/4-inch thick aluminum front skid plate, 2-inch Bilstein shocks, and a 2.5-inch Bilstein coil-over-shock setup with a 1-inch height lift are also included in the 4Runner TRD Pro.
The 3.6-liter V6 engine in the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon generates 285 horsepower. The 2018 Rubicon provides you with a Selec-Trac 4×4 system, a Rock-Trac system, and Hill Descent Control when it comes to off-road capabilities. The 2018 Rubicon also features an automatic front sway bar disconnect and Tru-Lok electronic locking front and rear differentials.
Both of these cars are capable in terms of performance and off-road capabilities. They both give you the versatility across many terrains as well as the power and off-road capabilities you require for your upcoming journey.
Pricing
Let’s now examine the costs of these two cars. Priced at $43,075, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is available now. You’ll pay $41,445 for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon.
Although the 4Runner costs a little more than the Wrangler, it has more comfortable and convenient features inside.
Which is Right for You?
Overall, we believe that the 4Runner triumphs in this comparison because to its larger interior, greater load capacity, and increased number of interior features. The 4Runner also offers some excellent off-road capabilities and amenities. Although it costs a little more than the Wrangler, we believe it offers greater value.