2023 Toyota 4Runner vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner maintained its rugged, truck-based roots, reminiscent of the SUV craze of the 1980s. Unlike many modern SUVs that have transitioned to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its origins, sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. This design choice was not due to stubbornness but rather a strategic decision by Toyota, which already had the Highlander for family-hauling duties. The 4Runner was thus positioned as a niche vehicle for those who ventured off-road. Its adventurous spirit was evident in its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper, all designed for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's function-first approach was clear, though the dash layout revealed its last full redesign in 2009.

In 2023, Toyota introduced the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE) of the 4Runner, based on the SR5 trim. This edition featured retro body stripes, a heritage grille design, bronze 17-inch wheels, and unique badges and stitching. The 40 ASE was available in limited numbers, with only 400 units destined for Canada. The 2023 lineup included the SR5, TRD Sport, Limited, 40 ASE, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro trims. The 4Runner retained its truck-based SUV appeal, with a purposeful interior and solid build quality. Despite the abundance of plastic, the cabin felt durable, and the controls were easy to use, even with gloves on.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, though dated, was chosen for its reliability and decent initial acceleration. However, in most driving situations, it felt underwhelming. The power was routed through a five-speed automatic transmission to a standard 4WD system with a low range. The ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll, but it excelled off-road, where the suspension absorbed rough terrain effortlessly. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

In 2023, the 4Runner continued with the same 4.0-litre V6 engine, delivering identical power specs. The five-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD remained, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Two 4WD systems were available: a part-time system and a full-time system on the Limited trim. The 4Runner's fuel economy was rated at 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Off-road, the 4Runner impressed with its ground clearance of 24.4 centimetres and various off-roading technologies, including a locking rear differential and Multi-Terrain Select. The TRD Sport and Limited trims offered improved on-road performance, while the TRD Pro was tuned for high-speed off-road performance. Despite its off-road prowess, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a bumpy ride.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres available with the second-row seats in use. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with only 254 litres behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-operated rear window, enhancing convenience. While the cabin was not the most spacious, it provided ample storage for gear.

In 2023, the 4Runner retained its signature power rear window, offering a unique open-air experience. The interior featured comfortable seats, with the 40 ASE model using SofTex artificial leather. Dual-zone climate control and numerous storage locations were provided, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. The optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner offered 1,337 litres of cargo space behind the second row. The cargo area included storage cubbies, trays, and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system lacked advanced features like a head-up display, it was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, making it user-friendly even with gloves on. Navigation and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system were available as upgrades.

In 2023, the 4Runner's technology remained traditional, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades for navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The system's home screen displayed multiple functions simultaneously, and voice recognition performed well, though it had limitations. The 4Runner's tech was simple yet effective, appealing to those who preferred tactile controls.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, 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 in frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) but received three stars for rollover testing. It had not been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

In 2023, the 4Runner's safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard on all trims. The adaptive cruise control provided smooth braking, though it was slow to accelerate. The lane-departure warning was audible but could be turned off. The 4Runner received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with three stars for front passenger protection and rollover resistance. The IIHS rated it Marginal for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.