2023 Toyota 4Runner Review

There are a few vehicles with a reputation for trailblazing like the mighty Toyota 4Runner. It is one of the most rugged midsized SUVs in the world and one of the most practical in its class. Now, the 2023 4Runner is available for sale and the following is a review of its highlights:

Features

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offers 8 trim levels and 1 powertrain. The 4Runner is officially 40 years old and there’s a trim dedicated to this milestone. We also have 3 TRD trim levels with 2 of them being dedicated to boosting its already impressive off-roading abilities.

Engine and Numbers

The 2023 4Runner is powered by a 4-liter V6 engine which makes 270 hp and 278 lb-ft. It uses a 5-speed automatic gearbox to send this power to a rear- or 4-wheel-drive system. The latter is available as a full- or part-time feature depending on your requirements.

The 4Runner is able to deliver a 0-60 mph time of about 7 seconds, which is quite respectable for its class. The towing capacity is also very good if you’re interested in trailering. When properly equipped, the 2023 4Runner can pull up to 5000 lbs.

Despite its big engine, the fuel economy shouldn’t worry you for the sheer offroad capabilities that it adds. The legendary SUV can deliver up to 16 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway according to the EPA. However, its testers have managed to get even better fuel averages.

Interior and Technology

Despite the rugged nature of the 4Runner, you’ll still be treated to a well-built and comfortable interior. The space for the occupants is unlike any other mid-sized SUV. On top of the regular passenger capacity, you can also equip this vehicle to have tailgate seating.

The trunk space is also one of the finest in the class and if you get the sliding cargo deck, the stowage capabilities are increased even further. There’s plenty of interior storage space with cubbies and pockets for the occupants.

The following are all the trim levels and the standard niceties they offer:

2023 4Runner SR5

The base model is anything but basic as you get many standard amenities. You get keyless entry with push-button ignition, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen with Android and Apple connectivity. The driver’s seat gets 8-way power adjustability while the front passenger seat is 4-way adjustable.

Due to the Toyota Sensing package, the safety department is also loaded. It includes forward-collision warning (w/automated emergency braking), lane-departure warning (w/lane-keeping assist), and adaptive cruise control. You also get a backup camera and blind-spot monitoring (w/rear cross-traffic alerts).

2023 4Runner TRD Sport

This is the first of the TRD models and you are reminded that with TRD logos on features such as the floor mats and the shift knob. The seats are upgraded to nicer, SofTex-trimmed ones as well. Most of the changes in this model can be found on the exterior and in the performance

2023 4Runner TRD Off-Road

As indicated by its name, this trim is also more customized on the outside to improve its off-roading abilities. Still, you get an overhead console for the controls to the terrain select and crawl control features. There’s also an additional storage compartment at the center console.

2023 4Runner SR5 Premium

The 4Runner SR5 Premium adds several upgrades for a more upscale cabin. The front seats are now heated and the front passenger gets powered adjustability. You also receive an auto-dimming rearview mirror and several new features on the infotainment system.

2023 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium

The TRD Off-Road Premium trim is a higher-end version of the regular TRD Off-Road trim. It comes with some additional TRD accents and the amenities offered on the SR5 Premium. This is so that you get to enjoy the off-roading experience in a comfier environment.

2023 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition

This awesome trim level makes the 2023 4Runner a collector’s item as it is one of the most unique packages in the make’s history. You get black SofTex-trimmed seats with bronze accents, and special badging on the dash and on the headrests. A moonroof is also added.

2023 4Runner Limited

The 2023 4Runner Limited takes the sophistication up by quite a few notches. It adds dual-zone climate control, perforated leather seats, a premium 15-speaker JBL sound system, and a panoramic view monitor for better visibility.

2023 4Runner Limited

The TRD Pro is another off-road-oriented trim, but it has all the luxuries that you get in the Limited trim; hence, it offers the best of both worlds. And yes, it comes with its very own accents.

2023 4Runner SR5

2023 4Runner TRD Sport

2023 4Runner TRD Off-Road

Exterior and Driving

The current generation of the 4Runner has always received praise for its looks. The trims are differentiated via their front grilles and wheel finishes. The 40th Anniversary edition is more customized with its graphics and bronze alloy wheels.

If you get the TRD Pro or TRD Offroad models, you are offered offroad suspension, skid plates, and electronic rear diff, plus the unique badging on the exterior panels. The TRD Sport variant is built for paved roads so it gets other goodies such as a hood scoop and adaptive damping.

The following are all the exterior colors available for the 2023 4Runner:

Make sure that the color of your choice is available with your dealer or on your trim.

Performance-wise, this is a vehicle that can take you anywhere, no matter how tough the terrain is. The terrain selection and crawl control features on the TRD offroad-based models make everything easier. The TRD Sport is excellent for carpeted roads and its stability in cornering has been praised.

Reliability and Warranty

The 2023 4Runner has been given a score of 87 out of 100 in reliability by JD Power. They have also named it their best upper midsize SUV for the year. Owners of this vehicle also have good things to say about its dependability.

As expected from Toyota, the aftersales are the best in the industry. You get the regular limited and powertrain warranties of 3 years/36k miles and 5 years/60k miles. Then you also get complimentary maintenance for 2 years/25k miles.

Verdict

To conclude, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is as capable as ever but with a lot more comfort and functionality. The multiple trim options ensure that there’s something for every type of consumer. The fuel efficiency is also there and so are the countless interior amenities. Also, the driver’s assistance options make this a very safe vehicle to own.

To get the 2023 4Runner in Bountiful, Utah, check us out at Performance Toyota Bountiful here.