Toyota has a fantastic new 2023 mid-size part Electric SUV to debut, and it's called the 4Runner. The outdated older models' technology has been showing its limitations in recent years. The last generation, released in 2009, shows more than a decade of aged features and minor upgrades - it's definitely needing some TLC.
Customers who want an SUV with the rugged good looks and all-terrain versatility of a beastly truck will still have plenty of options with the new 2023 Toyota 4Runner. The new model certainly holds onto the conventional architecture which is seen in most hard-working pickups, unlike many more civilized competitors that are all too common on the growing market.
It’s difficult to deny that the Toyota 4Runner remains one of the most sought-after charming SUVs on the road today. It’s more than capable, it’s almost bulletproof and possible most importantly - it just looks cool. Like we said, it's cool alright, but it's last model, which was released 13 years ago in 2009, has grown outdated and old-fashioned.
The 2023 4Runner achieved less than 20-mpg on the highway, and its five-speed automatic transmissions offer half the number of gears than the new Ford Bronco does. An update for the 4Runner is definitely overdue, and we need it now. Looks like we won't have to wait too long until one is to make an appearance.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: When Will The New Sixth-Generation 4Runner Arrive?
Toyota is in the very midst of reproducing and updating all its trucks and SUVs. We saw the all-new 2022 Tundra launch back in 2021, and it made an appearance in dealerships towards the end of the year. We can expect the full-size Sequoia SUV to launch next, which will be closely followed by the 4Runner!
So, be sure to expect the sixth-gen 4Runner to arrive as a 2023 model, hitting dealers towards the end of 2022 or early 2023.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: Expect The New 4Runner To Move To A New TNGA Platform
Toyota has been swiftly moving its vehicles to their Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platforms. The new body-on-frame truck architecture which is associated with the TNGA has been seen on the Land Cruiser and the new Tundra; which have proven to be popular choices.
Looking at the direction that Toyota has starting to move towards in regard to its new trucks and SUVs, it’s rather possible that Toyota could shift 4Runner production, traditionally performed in Japan, to America.
Which Gas Engine Will The 2023 Toyota 4Runner Get?
Toyota should be looking to publish better fuel economy numbers through smaller displacement engines. Turbocharging and a transmission will be offering more than five speeds. Many Toyota fans have speculated that the base engine will be a four cylinder, insinuating that we can expect a 275 horsepower motor. It's likely that the 4Runner will hold a 2.4 liter, which can be found in the Lexus NX350. If this is the engine they will use, it will offer substantially more torque than the current V6.
It’s also quite possible that Toyota may opt for an upgraded version of the nearly 400-hp 3.5 liter V6 from the Tundra, which will bring a lot of power to this 2023 vehicle. That combination would set up the 4Runner to easily compete with the likes of the Bronco and Defender.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner: An Upgraded Suspension Platform, You Say?
The current Toyota 4Runner could certainly do with some suspension love. The 4Runner offers a strong double-wishbone suspension in the front, and a coil spring suspension sitting in the back.
The ‘23 4Runner could see Toyota’s body-on-frame truck platform, which was used on the Tundra and Land Cruiser. Although it would be a slightly smaller version of these similar motors, it would still help massively with the suspension and handling, creating a more comfortable ride on the pavement and a more capable ride when it takes to taking the truck onto the dirt.
Will The 2023 Toyota 4Runner Be A Hybrid?
The short and sweet of it is - yes. Toyota has explained that ideally, they would like every model to offer a hybrid version by 2025, which isn't too far away! The question will be, how will Toyota go about doing that.
Thinking about it, there are three ways that Toyota could do it. They could add some smart electric components to supplement the base engine. Another option is to create a plug in hybrid, like the RAV4 Primer. Or Toyota could launch an all-out attack on the Bronco and Wrangler with the Tundra's V6 hybrid that offers 437 hp and 583 lb-ft.
An Updated Interior Will Likely Be Seen In The New 4Runner
When taking a look at the new Tundras' interior, it received major modernization; making it look pretty sleek and modern. This motor holds a 14-inch mega touch screen and trendy red leather seats. We are expecting the 4Runner to follow suit with Toyota's brand-new infotainment system.
Typically, Toyota doesn't try to blow away buyers with their interior material quality and design, but be sure to expect some modest upgrades to help fend off fierce rivals.
What Price Tag Is Expected To Come With The 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
The new version of the 4Runner is expected to have a price tag which will start at around $37,000. Although this may seem pricey, we have to see it compares to the massive number of other SUVs that will be sure to compete with it.
Other models such as Subaru and Kia have tried to provide cheaper options, whilst others cement themselves firmly within the luxury sector, such as the Genesis.
This is certainly a highly anticipated vehicle, and we can’t wait for it to be fully revealed. Toyota have given us many hints to suggest that the all new Toyota 4Runner has been stripped and built up from new, with many new features, which sounds like it’ll be a mean-machine - exciting times!
Sources: Edmunds, My Drive Car, Ali Autos