What Is the 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
The Toyota 4Runner is a throwback to classic SUVs of yesteryear thanks to its body-on-frame construction (a layout commonly used for hard-working pickup trucks). A 270-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-6 engine is standard, coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission and rear- or four-wheel-drive. Equipped with its optional third row, the 4Runner can seat up to seven. Rivals include the Ford Explorer, Honda Passport, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Subaru Ascent.
What’s New on the 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
Toyota 4Runner fans, take note: A 40th Anniversary Special Edition arrives for the 2023 model year. Based on the SR5 Premium trim, it has four-wheel drive and 17-inch bronze-colored alloy wheels. Three exterior paint colors are offered — white, Midnight Black Metallic and Barcelona Red Metallic — and each includes retro-themed red/orange/red exterior graphics; only 4,040 examples will be built. On a safety note, both blind spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert are now standard on every 4Runner.
What Features in the 2023 Toyota 4Runner Are Most Important?
Standard features include:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Power-sliding liftgate window
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel
- 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot warning
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Automatic high-beam headlights
- Adaptive cruise control
Available features include:
- Power moonroof
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic air conditioning
- Navigation
- JBL premium stereo
- Locking rear differential
- Selectable terrain management system
Should I Buy the 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
For SUV shoppers who intend to do plenty of serious off-road driving, the rugged 4Runner is worth consideration. It has an enviable reputation for traversing all types of terrain, but it’s on paved roads that the 4Runner stumbles: The ride is too firm, the handling too vague and fuel economy is poor. To its credit, the 4Runner has a roomy cargo hold, lots of active-safety features and a solid 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. Its outdoorsy image has lots of appeal, but most of the 4Runner’s rivals feel much more refined in city and highway driving.
