Despite that many consider 4Runner a dinosaur, it still makes pretty impressive sales numbers. More than 130.000 units sold in every of the last several years is a perfect example of the absurdness that came with the hype of crossovers. Normally, a vehicle that old would be replaced years ago but the desperate desire for a genuine BoF SUV made this model popular again. The fact that the Japanese manufacturer makes a huge profit from a 13-year old vehicle just shows how smart was the move to never give up on a genuine SUV design.
Other manufacturers started to realize their mistakes, so a couple of legendary nameplates came back after years of break. This particularly refers to the new Ford Bronco, while the Nissan Xterra has been rumored as well. The competition will once again become tough in the segment of mid-size BoF SUVs, but it looks like Toyota doesn’t panic and that the new generation will be developed at a steady pace. Meanwhile, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner will continue without more important changes.
2022 Toyota 4Runner Design
This means that you may count on a familiar design, which hasn’t essentially changed for nearly 13 years. This is a genuine BoF SUV, which rides on a pretty rigid platform that ensures strong off-road capabilities. On the other side, the obvious disadvantage of such a design, which comes in a combination with a pretty rudimental suspension setup, is a not particularly comfortable on-road ride. Still, we doubt that this would bother anyone who looks for a new 4Runner.
Visually, we saw a mid-cycle years ago and the 2022 Toyota 4Runner will probably continue in the same way. Still, we won’t exclude the possibility of smaller updates. Some sources suggest that the TRD Pro version could come with new color options in the offer. This particular version offers not just exclusive styling details, but also a long list of additional off-road hardware, such as skid plates, off-road tires, upgraded suspension, locking differential etc.
Interior
The cabin perfectly shows the age of this SUV. It looks really outdated by today’s standards, not just because of old aesthetic solutions, but also because of the massive use of cheap gray plastics, which is something most manufacturers avoid these days. Of course, higher trim levels offer a little bit finer materials and nicer color schemes, making the cabin look more luxurious. However, that doesn’t change the model’s character, which is all about functionality and doesn’t care much about style.
The amount of passenger space is good. Due to big off-roading ambitions, the wheelbase has remained relatively modest by today’s standards, so the third row is rather tight. On the other side, the first two rows accommodate adult passengers with ease. Visibility is excellent in all directions, while the driving position is typically high for this class of vehicles. The cargo area offers nearly 90 cubic feet of the total cargo volume, which is pretty good for the segment.
Features
We could see a couple of additions for the next year, but most of the things should remain the same. Currently, all models come standard with things like keyless entry, a power liftgate, 120V power outlet, an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, an eight-speaker stereo, satellite radio, Bluetooth, four USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Additionally, you can get things like dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, navigation system, HD Radio, 15-speaker JBL sound system and many more.
When it comes to safety features, all models come standard with things like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights.
2022 Toyota 4Runner Engine
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner will continue to rely on old and proven technology. You may count on a good-old 4.0-liter V6, which puts out around 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. That’s more than okay for a convenient ride, while a 5-speed automatic transmission does a fine job as well. Despite the obvious lack of gears, it shifts pretty smoothly and, in most cases, on time.
On the other side, fuel economy isn’t that good. Moreover, it’s pretty bad. You may count on about 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, and those are among the lowest ratings among all SUVs on the market.
2022 Toyota 4Runner Release Date and Price
The current generation of this great SUV will carry on for some more time. The 2022 Toyota 4Runner won’t feature bigger changes and we expect to see it in a typical time of year. That would mean sometime in the last quarter of 2021. When it comes to the price, base models should go around 37.000 dollars.