2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport Review

The Toyota 4Runner is an off-road-oriented SUV that pays homage to the rugged no-nonsense SUVs of old. It is available in several trim levels, with its TRD Sport model being one of the most popular. This trim level is a sporty road-based one with off-tarmac attributes.

The following takes a look at the 2023 4Runner TRD Sport:

Features

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is an all-new model that represents the beginning of the third generation of the nameplate. It has therefore been completely redesigned and this new model is offered exclusively as a hybrid.

It also offers you a choice of five different trim levels, with the Sequoia Limited being just above the entry-level model. This variant comes with a long list of comfort and safety amenities – all offered as standard, and it unlocks some cool optional extras.

Powertrain and Numbers

The 4Runner TRD Sport Premium 2023 is powered by a 4-liter V6 engine that produces 270 hp and 278 lb-ft. A 5-speed automatic gearbox sends this to either the rear or all four wheels – full- and part-time options are available.

This vehicle should be able to clock out a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds, which is decent. It can also tow up to 5000 lbs which is great for its class and more than most of its rivals. Meanwhile the payload is a respectable 1700 lbs as well.

Despite its old school powertrain, the 4Runner can return up to 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. However, testers such as Car and Driver have been able to exceed these ratings in their real-time tests.

Interior and Technology

The 2023 4Runner TRD Sport has a versatile and practical interior that’s easy to clean after you’ve hit the trail. Despite the rugged nature of this SUV, it still offers a comfortable two or three rows of seating. The cubby storage is on point and so is the size of the trunk.

The cabin comes with SoftTex-trimmed seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and several custom TRD components. There’s a lot of tech here including push-button ignition, keyless entry, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver seat.

‘For safety, there’s a backup camera. forward-collision warning (w/automated emergency braking), lane-departure warning (w/lane-keeping assist), adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring (w/rear cross-traffic alerts).

Exterior and Driving

The 4Runner TRD Sport features LED headlamps, tail lamps, and fog lamps. It also comes with underbody protection in case you decide to drive on rough terrain. This trim features stylish 20-inch alloy wheels and as you’d expect, TRD badging.

The following are the colors available on the 4Runner TRD Sport:

The 4Runner TRD Sport has the driving dynamics to hang around with the best of its modern rivals. Toyota has set it up perfectly to excel on tarmac and even do some dirt-eating when you want it to.

Reliability and Warranty

JD Power has given a score of 87 out of 100 in reliability by JD Power, also being named its best upper midsize SUV of 2023. Consumer Reports says that it should be more reliable than the average new vehicle.

Toyota offers limited and powertrain warranties of 3 years/36k miles and 5 years/60k miles respectively. The complimentary maintenance for 2 years/25k miles is a bonus offered by not many in the industry.

Verdict

The 2023 4Runner TRD Sport is a vehicle that you cannot miss out on. It is a classic SUV with many modern touches that drives well. It’s reasonably quick and efficient and can out-tow most of its rivals. The interior is timeless and easy to maintain, you get a lot of tech, and it’s reliable.

To get the 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport in Woods Cross, North Salt Lake UT, Centerville UT, and Bountiful UT, check out Performance Toyota Bountiful here.