Toyota | The legendary 4Runner is renewed after 15 years of inertia

At the current pace at which the automobile industry is evolving, three years can seem like an eternity in the development of a model. Now imagine that a manufacturer has been offering a vehicle since the fall of 2009 whose fundamental characteristics have barely been touched up. This is the case of the fifth generation of the Toyota 4Runner, which now passes the torch to a much more modern creation, at the risk of playing into the flowerbeds of the new Land Cruiser.

Here is the sixth 4Runner of the name, which is largely inspired by the mid-size Tacoma pickup truck updated just a few months ago. The 4Runner thus enters a new era with a two-piece superimposed grille very similar to that of its cousin. Yes, the rear tailgate window can also still be lowered electronically, tradition obliges.

Four-cylinders to replace the V6

The antediluvian and gluttonous 4.0L V6 gives way to a duo of turbocharged four-cylinders bolted to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The stock version produces 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. However, it is its hybrid variant that attracts attention. It incorporates a 48 hp electric motor into the formula to increase the count to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. Their consumption has not yet been quantified.

This 4Runner also uses a new TNGA-F platform shared among others with the Tacoma. More rigid, it increases its towing capacity up to 2721 kg (6000 lb). To complement a wide range of suspensions, off-road hardware incorporates a front anti-roll bar disconnect mechanism.

The interior has been largely modernized with the addition of the new multimedia system controlled by 8-inch or 14-inch touch screens. The 2025 4Runner will go on sale in the fall at a price not yet specified.