Next-Gen Toyota 4Runner vs Next-Gen Toyota Tacoma: Which One Needs a Redesign More?

We discuss whether Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner needs a redesign most – and when you will see them.

Tough. Rugged. Dependable.

These words have been used numerous times over the years to describe two of Toyota’s most popular trucks and SUVs.

Tacoma and 4Runner.

Both vehicles have built practically a cult-like following throughout the past few decades. Backed and surrounded by loyal owners, fans and enthusiasts who would swear by them.

Any why would they not? Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Tacoma are built with long-term reliability and dependability in mind. Plus, both are rated as two of the vehicles with highest resale value by kbb.com.

Yes, they last a long time and keep their value more than just about any other brand and model.

“Impressive. Most impressive.” Darth Vader might say.

But, just as all things change in life, so too must 4Runner and Tacoma.

Today I discuss when both vehicles will be redesigned, and which one could use it most.

Toyota Tacoma History

Toyota is currently selling its 2021 Toyota Tacoma. It was last redesigned in 2016 as its third generation offering.

The first generation was from model years 1995-2004. Second generation covered 2005-2015 Tacoma trucks.

Third generation Tacoma received a facelift for 2020 complete with minor body changes, along with new safety features and technology.

Toyota 4Runner History

I call Toyota 4Runner one of the last true SUVs left on the planet.

In contrast to Tacoma, the 4Runner has been around longer and has gone through more generation cycles.

First generation Toyota 4Runner consisted of 1984-1989 model years. Second generation was 1990-1995. The span of 1996-2002 was 4Runner third generation.

Fourth generation covered 2003-2009 4Runners.

This leaves a big time range for the fifth generation. We have seen this current fifth generation Toyota 4Runner from model year 2010 until present 2021 4Runner.

4Runner had a nice refresh for 2020 as well with new technology, convenience and safety upgrades. A refresh - not a redesign.

This is a long time without a redesign. Over a decade.

2021 Toyota Tacoma Powertrain

Current generation and 2021 Tacoma trucks come with two engine options: 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V6.

Most trim levels come with the V6 and produce 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. torque. This is matched with either a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.

2021 Toyota 4Runner Powertrain

The 2021 4Runner has a larger V6 engine than Tacoma – a 4.0-liter. This delivers 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. torque. All grades come with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

New for 2021 4Runner and Tacoma

Both Tacoma and 4Runner have done an admirable job of offering new features and trim levels for 2021 while we wait for next generations.

2021 4Runner added Trail Special Edition to its lineup. Also, LED headlights and LED fog lights are now standard across the board on all trims.

The 2021 Tacoma also added a Trail Special Edition, as well as a Nightshade Special Edition. Toyota 4Runner already has a Nightshade in its fleet.

Both vehicles added Lunar Rock color to their TRD Pro lineup.

RELATED: The hardest to get 2021 Toyota 4Runner right now.

Timetable for new Tacoma and 4Runner

Timelines for both vehicles are a bit cloudy and uncertain, at least to the public. Toyota has not officially announced plans or estimated times for each one to be redesigned.

Certainly, there are rumors circling the airs of the Toyota world. I have heard completely different stories about both.

VIDEO: Compare 2021 4Runner TRD Pro vs TRD Off-Road Premium.

Latest Tacoma speculation has a new Toyota midsize truck reaching local dealerships for the 2023 model year. It could be pushed back to 2024 as well, depending on any number of factors and circumstances.

READ MORE: Tacoma fans offer suggestions for next generation Toyota truck.

4Runner, on the other hand, has a much cloudier future concerning its sixth generation build. I have heard anywhere from 2023 to 2025 model year for our beloved SUV to reach buyers.

Again, Toyota is a corporation that is fantastic at keeping news quiet until it is ready to release information on its own terms. Part of its charm, I suppose.

Next-gen Toyota 4Runner vs Tacoma

While both are due for a major redesign, I feel 4Runner needs it the most. It has been over a decade since it was last overhauled.

I expect both Tacoma and 4Runner to update their engines and transmission (perhaps an 8-speed transmission?).

I also fully plan on seeing a 4Runner Hybrid and Tacoma Hybrid in the next few years. This falls in line with the Toyota objective of offering a hybrid or alternative fuel vehicle for every one of its cars, trucks and SUVs.

Of course, look for new and modern technology, safety and styling as well.

Time for your thoughts on Tacoma vs 4Runner

The beauty in this is that while we wait for each model to get its new body style, we still have great vehicles to purchase. Long-lasting and built strong and tough.

What do you think needs a redesign the most – Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner? Are you debating about whether to make a purchase now or wait for the next generation?

How will you decide what to do?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I speculate on whether a 2022 Tundra plug-in could happen or not.

Follow Jeff Teague on social media:

- My Toyotajeff.com website
- My Torque News / Toyota News column
- YouTube channel - My "Toyotajeff" Toyota reviews
- My Facebook page
- Instagram @toyotajeff1
- My Twitter page

Thank you everyone for following me.