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Toyota has a number of very successful SUV models. The RAV/4 enjoys global success while the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser adds retro nostalgia to the legendary Japanese SUV. Somewhere, sandwiched in between those two sits the Toyota 4Runner.
The fifth-generation 4Runner was introduced back in 2009, as a 2010 model, and, currently, boasts the longest production run of any Toyota SUV in recent years. This also makes the 4Runner the most aging in terms of technology, but in this age of increased complexity and mass-digitalization, Toyota 4Runner remains an analog beast with old-school Toyota hardware, and 2024 is shaping up to be the last year you'll be able to get that.
The Venerable 1GR-FE V-6 Engine
Under the hood of the fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, you almost exclusively find the 1GR-FE, 4.0-liter V-6 engine.
The 4Runner uses the second generation of this engine, which features Toyota's VVTi system, making it a lot smoother than the first generation while boosting performance to 270 horsepower instead of the early version's 230. The biggest issue is that thin cylinder liners, which make it impossible to bore-out the engine when a major overhaul is needed. Still, you can easily get 200,000 miles out of this 4.0-liter V-6 engine with good maintenance and knowledge of the 1GR-FE's common issues.
Given Toyota is doubling down on hybrid powertrains in its SUV models, the sixth-generation Toyota 4Runner is expected to feature a version of the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, which is also one of the highlights of the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser.
The 4Runner Is Properly Rugged
Currently, the fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner is the most utilitarian SUV you can still buy off the showroom floor. Once you take a look in the 4Runner's engine bay, you notice how easy everything is to service. There is enough space to change the timing chain without taking out the engine and underneath, you get metal belly pans on all the important places, instead of the more common in modern vehicles, plastic ones.
Moreover, the fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner shares the body-on-frame chassis with the J150 Land Cruiser Prado and Lexus LX.
There are also recovery points that are easy to reach, in the unlikely scenario you get stuck somewhere. The 4Runner also has a ground clearance of 9.6 inches, which is more than the 2024 Land Cruiser's 8.7 inches.
The 4Runner also has a 33-degree approach angle and a 26-degree departure angle. You can also tow up to 5,000 pounds with the Toyota 4Runner, which while not as impressive as most trucks, is more than adequate for a mid-size SUV. It seems, despite the 4Runner's aging, it still has an immense cult following surrounding it, and its old-school, rugged character has much to do with it.
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is designed with the full intention of overlanding and off-roading, and despite its more rugged nature, it still benefit from the following modern features:
- Four-mode, Multi-terrain select (MTS) system for optimized traction
- 4WD on demand with high and low gears, and crawl mode
- Electornic locking rear differential
- Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) with sway bar disconnect for better chassis articulation
- Multi-terrain monitor that gives you multiple perspectives of your surroundings
- 120V AC outlet for powering small devices (e.g. smartphones, air compressors)
The 2024 4 Runner's Pricing
Current pricing for the 2024 Toyota 4Runner starts at $41,600, but can go up $56,565 for the top trim. You can have the 4Runner in seven different trims:
- SR5 (base) - $41,600
- SR5 Premium - $44,410
- TRD Sport - $44,460
- TRD Off-road – 45,445
- TRD Off-road Premium - $48,525
- Limited - $50,335
- TRD Pro - $56,555
Note that these prices do not account for dealership taxes and mark-ups. A quick research on CarEdge.com shows that most 2024 Toyota 4Runner offerings are listed at roughly 10 percent over MSRP.
About the author:
Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.
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