With the revival of Ford Bronco and hybridization of Jeep Wrangler, automakers now know that even hardcore fans are ready for change, including slapping on a hybrid powerplant into an off-roading junkie. While the whole mid-size off-road-capable SUV segment has moved on with this bold evolutionary process, the once-leading Toyota 4Runner hasn't jumped onto the bandwagon.

This capable off-roading SUV has not been given a generation change since 2009! But we have strong reasons to believe that it is about to change with the all-new sixth-generation 4Runner expected to unravel as a 2023 model year. Toyota has been on a makeover streak with the likes of Toyota Tundra, Toyota Sequoia, and the Lexus LX600 being given a whole new identity. The ones that remain include the mid-sized likes of 4Runner and the Tacoma (whose next-gen model is undergoing extensive tests).

There are strong indications of the 4Runner sitting on a whole new platform, getting a new set of powertrains (including a likely hybrid), and a redesigned interior with loads of technology upgrades to make this bad boy 2023-ready. Many of the changes are bold and that is a very risky path for the legendary 4Runner to tread, as it is known for the raw appeal it carries. But we are positive about the 4Runner's transformation and give you a major insight into why it is well worth the wait.

The brawny Toyota 4Runner is all set to get its much-deserved generation upgrade, and the iconic SUV will finally come out of the shadows.

A Much-Needed Generation Upgrade After 13 Years

2023 Toyota 4Runner will look very different from the 2022 4Runner
Via: Pressroom.toyota.com

Toyota has been holding onto the 4Runner for "13 years" too long. It would have aged like fine wine, if not for the constantly evolving competition. And that is about to change with the expected sixth-generation 2023 4Runner which is set to kick-start a whole new phase.

This upgrade is no longer a want but a need, as the absence of any major upgrades has pushed this capable off-road-ready SUV into the shadows. From 2009 up until now, the 4Runner had got only penny-worth upgrades, with the most notable one coming in 2022 with a new TRD sport model.

High Chances Of The 2023 4Runner Going Hybrid

2023 Toyota 4Runner will also get a muscular TRD trim
Pressroom.toyota.com

Toyota will be bringing in a new set of engines for the 2023 4Runner. The current 4.0-Liter V6 motor would be phased off for a more efficient four-cylinder. While the loss of cylinders sounds disheartening, it is actually for the better. The most likely candidate is a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4 seen in the 2022 Lexus NX 350.

This four-banger churns out 275 hp and 371 lb-ft of torque which is more brawn than the V6. Also, the gearbox will be upgraded from the 5-Speed automatic to a more widespread 8-Speed automatic. Toyota would also add in a more powerful engine option to tickle hardcore fans (most likely the 400 hp V6 from Tundra) in the 2023 4Runner TRD Pro model, or a GR branded model perhaps.

Toyota has laid out a plan to launch a hybrid version of every model in its portfolio by 2025. So, we expect the 2023 4Runner to come with a hybrid as well. The hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder from the RAV4 Prime sounds like a good fit, and it makes an impressive 302 hp.

Related: Why Toyota Is Investing $383 Million into Combustion Engines in 2022

New Underpinning Will Dial-Up 2023 4Runner's Abilities

Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
via Toyota

The 2023 4Runner will be underpinned by an all-new platform, most likely, a modified version of the TNGA-F that is used in the bigger likes of the Toyota Sequoia and Tundra. This platform is Toyota's way of evolving the capable body-on-frame without compromising on the off-roading capabilities.

This platform is lighter, stiffer, and more enduring than the older ones, we didnt know that was possibile, but thats what they claim. Making a shorter iteration of this to fit the 4Runner and Tacoma will bring the mid-size SUV and truck game, back to Toyota's hood! Even better, this platform coupled with the sophisticated new suspension setup coupled with technology will dial up the 4Runner's famed off-roading capabilities.

A Fresh Take Of Design Inspired By The 2023 Toyota Tundra And Sequoia

2022 Toyota Sequoia front view
Via: Pressroom.toyota.com

Toyota has been on a design refresh spree across the top of its model line-ups like the Tundra and Sequoia. The new design language is more modern, sophisticated, and muscular. We expect the 2023 4Runner to get a similar design overhaul and also share some cues with the big boys from the brand's model line up.

2023 Toyota Sequoia rear third quarter view
Via: Pressroom.toyota.com

Also, the TRD Pro or GR model perhaps will be offered as a more diverse trim with added muscle and cooler exterior design bits. It will also include extensive upgrades like jacked-up suspension, chunkier tires, cooler wheels, and skid plates to protect on those demanding trails. A fresh design in 13 years is surely going to turn a lot of eyeballs.

Related: Why The Third-Gen Toyota 4Runner Continues To Go Up In Value

2023 4Runner Will Have A Redesigned Interior High On Technology

2023 Toyota Tacoma interior view
Via: Toyota

Similar to the exterior overhaul, we expect the 2023 4Runner to get an interior, designed in the image of the Tundra and Sequoia models. The major upgrades would be a redesigned dashboard and a new more-modern infotainment system (hopefully the one that recently debuted on the 2022 Lexus NX 350) with loads of new connectivity features.

2023 Toyota Tacoma will get the infotainment system from the 2022 Toyota Tundra
Via: Toyota

The standard last comfort features will also get upgraded. Safety will also get a bump with the latest Toyota Safety Sense coming along with more new standard features. With the speculated new platform, we expect Toyota to also tweak the cabin space for more seating as well as cargo space.

The 4Runner's Great Comeback Will Cost Around $40,000

2023 Toyota 4Runner will be a comeback that we have been waiting for
Via: Pressroom.toyota.com

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner starts with an MSRP of $38,105 which is quite aggressive compared to its capable competitors. The generation upgrade will be a hefty process and can shoot the price over $40,000. Its comeback strength would depend on how aggressively Toyota plans to price the 4Runner. We sure are excited about this icon's comeback. Keep your eyes peeled for secret information seeping out over the next months for a clearer picture.

Sources: Toyota, Toyotaoforange.com,