Duncan - a re-gear, while
Duncan - a re-gear, while expensive, alleviates all of these issues. I did not do it on my Tacoma, but there are a couple youtube videos talking about about the re-gear greatly improving drivability in areas of slight inclines to mountain passes. I had a 16 Tacoma and that was my biggest gripe of the truck... second to apple carplay. Regardless, there is a fix for that too.
I am on the fence of buying a newer 4runner. I am excited about the new model.