2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport SUV Review and Walk Around

The Toyota 4Runner has always been a capable SUV to drive but the trail is where it truly shines. It has a reputation for being a tough-as-nails offroader, especially its TRD models. However, this year, Toyota has come up with a new TRD Sport model. This one’s meant to deliver the same kind of oomph that the TRD models do off-tarmac, but on the road. The following 2022 4Runner TRD Sport walk around reviews it.

Features

The 2022 4Runner TRD Sport is part of the 5th generation of the 40-year-old strong 4Runner nameplate. It is one of the 6 trims of the current 4Runner model. You get 1 engine option and a choice of 2 drive types, lots of safety features, a sporty look that is distinct from the rest of the trims, and more.

Engine and Numbers

The 2022 TRD Sport is offered with one engine – a 4-liter V6 which makes 270 hp and 278 lb-ft. This is mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. You can choose between the 2WD model and a model with part-time 4WD. The top 0-60 mph acceleration time that you get is around 7.7 s.

If you pick the 2-wheel drive model, you’ll get the vehicle equipped with a limited slip diff. Should you pick the 4WD, it will come with Toyota’s active traction control system. Both prevent the vehicle from slippage but the latter is a tad bit advanced.

So, what if you want to go trailering? Well, the towing capacity on this vehicle maxes out at 5000 lbs. This is one of the top towing figures in the mid-sized SUV category. As far as the fuel is concerned, the vehicle has a fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Technology

So, how this model like on the inside?

Design

Despite being a rugged vehicle for off-tarmac driving, the 4Runner comes with a decently designed interior and faux-leather trimmings. Every button and knob on this vehicle are where you’d expect them to be, so it is a functional design. The build quality of the cabin is stellar.

A major highlight here is the roominess of the cabin. Despite being a relatively small SUV on the outside, the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport provides an ample amount of legroom and headroom for all of its occupants. Now, this applies to the storage area as well.

Storage

Of course, there are many cubbies on the 4Runner to store smaller items inside the cabin. But there is a lot of space for full-on cargo as well. The vehicle allows for the folding of the 2nd-row seats to increase the trunk area even further. Also, there’s a double tailgate which makes cargo access easier.

Equipment

The 4Runner TRD Off-road also does well in the tech department. There’s an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android and Apple integrations, USB slots for media and charging, and voice recognition. There’s an LCD screen for the instrumentation details as well.

You also get keyless entry and push-button ignition. The standard safety tech list is long and it includes many key driver’s assistance systems. You get forward collision warning w/automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist w/lane departure warning.

Now, while the standard equipment leaves nothing to the imagination, the optional extras are splendid as well. You can upgrade to a 15-inch sound system, get a sliding moonroof, and a satnav system.

Exterior and Driving

The 4Runner has always been a looker and the 2022 TRD Sport is no exception. It sports a handsome exterior with large 20-inch wheels, unique badging, and an air intake scoop on the hood. Hence, you can expect the 2022 TRD Sport to stand out whenever you’re stuck in a traffic jam.
The exterior is available in the following colors:

To enhance its drivability, it has its very own X-REAS sport enhancement suspension. As a result of this, the TRD Sport is excellent to drive. There is no body roll and the steering system has received a lot of praise for its nimbleness as well. This is quite important as this is a high-performance tarmac model.

So, as far as off-roading is concerned, it’s no 4Runner TRD Off-road but it can do well. You can upgrade it to increase the ground clearance to 9.6 inches for a better off-roading ability. Also available is a downhill assist control system for making your hill descents safer.

Reliability and Warranty

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner has received a reliability rating of Great from JD Power as it scored 82 out of 100. Consumer Reports has also given it a fantastic predicted reliability rating of 4 out of 5. The reviews from its buyers are also positive.

The warranties on this vehicle are Toyota’s standard limited warranty which covers 3 years/36k miles and a powertrain warranty which is good for 5 years/60k miles. The company also offers complimentary maintenance for 2 years which you can confirm from your dealer.

Verdict

So, this was the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport and it may be the highlight of the 4Runner range. Now, while its rugged nature does justice to its nameplate, it is still very refined when you get into its cabin. There are many standard amenities including a lot of safety features. The towing capacity for it is also superb.

The reliability is great as well and so are the roominess and storage aspects of it. For the drivability, it should be noted that while this model is more oriented for sporty driving on the road, it still does great off-road. You can improve it even further in this aspect.

So, if you need a high-performing and easily maneuverable SUV for the road, then this may just be the vehicle for you.

To purchase the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport in Bountiful, Utah, click here.