2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner retained a design that had remained largely unchanged for over a decade. Despite updates over the years, the core design and functionality of the 4Runner remained consistent, offering a rugged and utilitarian aesthetic. The vehicle's two-box body, flared fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches contributed to its timeless styling and practical utility. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's design was likened to a reliable tool, emphasizing durability and functionality over frequent redesigns. The 2021 model was available in various trims and packages, with pricing starting at $46,200 for the Trail model and reaching $62,430 for the SR5 with the TRD Pro package. The interior featured hard plastic materials, a straightforward dashboard with large knobs and buttons, and a focus on simplicity and durability, appealing to those who valued a no-nonsense approach to their SUV.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner continued to embrace its rugged roots, maintaining its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup. Unlike many modern SUVs that shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its truck-based construction, appealing to those who ventured off-road. The 2022 model featured a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper designed for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design reflected its age, with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. In Canada, the 2022 4Runner was available in Trail and SR5 trims, with various package configurations. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Toyota Safety Sense P driver assistance features. The Trail model offered unique features like a Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket and a sliding rear cargo deck. The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models added road-oriented and off-road enhancements, respectively, while the TRD Pro and Limited trims offered additional features for specific driving preferences.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided adequate power for off-road adventures, with features like A-Trac, a standard off-road traction control system, enhancing its capabilities. The 4Runner excelled in tackling mud, hills, and ruts, especially with the TRD Off-Road, Venture, or TRD Pro packages, which added features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow, heavy, and clunky, with a rough ride and challenging steering and braking. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, but they required frequent stops at the gas station, with an average fuel consumption of 14.0 L/100 km.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner shared the same 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While reliable, the engine felt underwhelming in most driving situations, except for providing a decent jump off the line. The five-speed automatic transmission powered the standard 4WD with low range. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll and jostling over bumps. However, off-road, the suspension absorbed rocks and bumps effortlessly, and the TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models offered features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms, which was more than most car-based crossovers but less than compact pickups.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a high seating position, which could be challenging for shorter individuals without running boards. Once inside, the 4Runner provided comfortable seating with ample legroom and good visibility. The back seat featured air conditioning vents and USB charging ports, and the moonroof and power windows allowed for an open-air experience. Cargo space measured up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded down, providing plenty of room for adventures. Interior storage was decent, and the back bumper served as a convenient seating area.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner provided a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres for the two-row version, with 1,337 litres behind the second row. The three-row model offered slightly less space, with 2,514 litres maximum cargo capacity and 1,311 litres behind the second row. The third-row seat was available only on the Limited package, increasing seating capacity to seven. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While not the most spacious SUV, the 4Runner offered sufficient interior space and storage for gear.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's entry-level Trail grade featured basic technology, including a windshield wiper de-icer system and a 120-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with physical shortcut buttons and knobs for easy operation, even with gloves. Upgraded audio systems added dynamic navigation and concierge services, enhancing the infotainment experience.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While not the most advanced system, it offered a straightforward layout with tactile controls, making it easy to use. Navigation and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system were available as upgrades. The infotainment system covered the tech basics, appealing to those who appreciated the 4Runner's analog driving style.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense P, offering basic driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" roof crush strength rating from the IIHS. However, its protection in small overlap frontal-impact collisions was rated as Marginal by the IIHS, reflecting its age.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars for frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA, with a three-star rating for rollover testing. The 2022 model had not yet been evaluated by the IIHS. The 4Runner was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.