The Toyota 4Runner is currently in its 5th generation. With outdated mechanics such as a 5-speed transmission and an aging 4L V6 engine, the current 4Runner is begging for a much-needed update, both on the inside and out. We are in luck as rumors are getting louder that Toyota will refresh the 4Runner for 2023. With recent updates to the Toyota Tundra line, some exciting new features are expected in the 2023 Toyota 4Runner.Toyota has a fantastic mid-size SUV with the 4Runner, but the outdated technology is showing limitations in recent years. The last generation released in 2009, shows more than a decade of aged features and minor upgrades. The 4Runner is well overdue for an upgrade.The 2022 model year saw the TRD Pro enter the lineup, and with commitments to hybrid offerings of every model, there is a lot to look forward to with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. Take a look at the 4Runner that could hit the roads next year!
9 Release in Late 2022
Following trends of releasing in the fall or winter for the following model year, the release of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner looks to be late 2022. As such, that gives a year of fine-tuning and debugging before Toyota releases a refined 6th generation 4Runner.
The 5th generation Toyota 4Runner was announced in September of 2009. This announcement date could give some indication of when the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner will be announced. Further, the start of production could be around September 2022, with the first vehicles hitting the roads in time for Christmas.
8 Engine Changes
While capable of towing 5,000lbs, there are significant areas of opportunity within the 4Runner's engine. Current Toyota 4Runner models only offer a 4.0L V6 engine. An engine this outdated translates to a meager 17 combined MPG rating.
For the 2023 model year, expect the Toyota 4Runner to come with a much more fuel-efficient 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder capable of producing the current engine's same or greater horsepower ratings. Further, there could be an option for a V6 which would add towing capabilities and additional power for off-road adventures.
7 Upgraded Suspension Platform
While the TRD Pro version added some needed upgrades to the suspension system, the current Toyota 4Runner could use some suspension love. The 4Runner offers double-wishbone suspension in the front, coil spring, lateral rod suspension in the back.
Toyota's 2023 4Runner could see Toyota's body-on-frame truck platform used on the Tundra and Land Cruiser. Albeit it would be a smaller version, this would help suspension and handling, creating a more comfortable ride on the pavement and a more capable ride on dirt.
6 A Hybrid Version
Toyota has committed itself to deliver a hybrid for every model by 2025. The Toyota 4Runner will be a part of that lineup as we have already seen Toyota release the hybrid version of the 2022 Toyota Tundra.
The Toyota Tundra contains a V6 i-Force Max that provides the hybrid option. This engine would be an excellent upgrade option for the Toyota 4Runner. However, it wouldn't be entirely surprising if some version of Toyota's Highlander hybrid 2.5L 4-cylinder engine appears in the 4Runner too. Regardless, the option helps save money at the pump and the environment.
5 Upgraded Interior
Toyota's 4Runner currently comes equipped with standard features for 2022. Power windows, power seats, infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, but nothing special. The Toyota 4Runner is even behind in some ways compared with the likes of the Nissan Murano, which offers additional luxury features at a cheaper price point.
Once again, using the upgraded Toyota Tundra as an example, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner looks to impress. An upgraded infotainment system and higher quality materials will make an immediate impression. Additionally, look for luxury features such as an expanded moonroof and climate controls.
4 Upgraded Transmission
Currently, the Toyota 4Runner uses a 5-speed automatic transmission. Such a limited number of gears contributes to the low gas mileage and provides lackluster towing capacities. The 5-speed is so outdated it doesn't appear on its competitors.
For the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, the transmission will get an upgrade to at least an 8-speed automatic transmission. The best-case scenario would see the Toyota 4Runner sporting a 10-speed manual like the new Ford Branco. Regardless, the transmission will see a significant upgrade, especially with the desire for lower emission and better fuel economy.
3 The TRD Pro Returns
The TRD Pro has been the go-to sports off-road branding for Toyota for years. For 2022, Toyota offered the TRD Pro as a trim option for the 4Runner, joining the Tundra and the Sequoia. The TRD Pro sports upgraded suspension, skid plates, wheels, and branding everything to match.
Toyota 4Runner's inclusion into the TRD Pro family is a sign of things to come with the 6th generation likely to offer the TRD Pro trim as well. The trim will pay homage to the TRD Pro of the current Toyota 4Runner while looking to provide the upgrades it desperately needs.
2 Pricing At Or Above $40,000
Currently, the 4Runner starts at $37,305. This price point pushes the mid-size SUV above the competition. If Toyota looks to stay competitive, profitable, and capable of providing much-needed upgrades, expect the cost to be at or above $40,000. However, if the Toyota Tundra indicates what the 2023 4Runner will look like, the price will justify the upgrades.
Further, expect the cost to rise quickly with options and trim levels that provide extras like increased engine size or the hybrid version. Additionally, the TRD Pro being top of the line, will be available for well over $50,000!
1 What the 2023 Toyota 4Runner Offers
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offers a return to greatness for the Mid-size SUV market. The desperate need for upgrades and the desire to bring a competitive vehicle to the SUV hungry public means a Toyota 4Runner with greater power and significant luxury additions.