SR5 Premium 4dr 4x4
2023 Toyota 4Runner

Pros: Tried-and-true mechanicals; cargo-carrying champ; roll-down rear window; multiple variants Cons: Slow; inefficient; imprecise handling; antiquated interior The Toyota 4Runner has been kicking around now for 40 years. For the majority of that time, new generations would dawn every six years, injecting Toyota’s midsize SUV with a fresh design and more refinement. For the past 14 years, though, including the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, we’ve been graced with generation five. Basically, there should’ve been two new 4Runners by now, and although there have been needed upgrades and welcome additions, you can totally tell. Now, being ancient isn't all bad: It has the same rugged truck-based chassis, capable suspension, ample clearances and bulletproof reliability that make it a darling among off-roaders everywhere (and keep its residual values sky-high). Its abundant interior space has also allowed it to be a realistic alternative to more family-friendly midsize crossovers. And, frankly, new cars can be awfully complicated. A simpler one will be mighty appealing to a lot of people. On the other hand, there's no escaping the ravages of father time (and all its competitors being redesigned/introduced in the past few years). Its V6 engine has less power than a Camry's, the transmission has five (!) fewer gears than a Ford Bronco's, the fuel economy of 17 mpg combined is dismal even when compared to Broncos and Wranglers, and calling the handling "imprecise" would be an understatement. The interior, despite those upgrades and its generous space, is still a relic of another time. As such, the 4Runner won't make sense for everyone, and the introduction of the Bronco (if you can actually get one) means there's one more competitor to make the 4Runner look its age. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? For one year only (naturally), the 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition will be offered. It takes the modest SR5 Premium trim and adds bronze 17-inch wheels, TRD-style TOYOTA grille, special badging and the way-cool yellow/orange/red body striping on a choice of white, black or the Barcelona Red pictured above. Only 4,040 will be available. The similarly equipped Trail Edition, pictured above, would seem to be on hiatus along with its special Army Green and Cement paint choices for 2023. Other updates include LED headlights and blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning added to all trim levels. There’s also the annual tradition of a new, one-year-only TRD Pro color: Solar Octane orange replaces last year’s eye-searing Lime Rush, which is now an option on the TRD Off-Road. What are the 4Runner interior and in-car technology like? After significant upgrades three years ago, the 4Runner cabin's feature content and technology are reasonably consistent with what you might find in cars designed during this decade. That said, this remains an antiquated interior with its blocky design that dates back to Barack Obama's first year in office. The plastics quality is also subpar for a vehicle that easily crests $40,000 and can top $50,000 – …
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