Not so long ago, many believed that full-frame SUVs are dead. However, things are much different these days, as drivers are becoming pretty crazy about 4×4 off-roaders. The Bronco is back, while the Wrangler marks pretty impressive sales numbers. Finally, the 4Runner is more popular than ever, even though it’s outdated by many standards. Despite the popularity, the Japanese manufacturer will have to redesign it one day. If we can trust the latest reports, this will happen next year, with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner.
At this point, we don’t know much about the next-generation 4Runner but we can speculate about it. We definitely expect Toyota to stick with the same formula, which means a genuine SUV design, with a body-on-frame platform, four-wheel drive and lots of off-road hardware. Naturally, we count on a completely new powertrain, new transmission etc. Finally, keep in mind that the current generation has been around for more than a decade, so count on significant improvements regarding styling and interior design.
2023 Toyota 4Runner Redesign
Considering that the current generation has been around since 2009, there is no doubt that the 2023 Toyota 4Runner redesign will bring tons of changes. What’s important to know is that Toyota listens to its buyers and all 4Runner lovers have just one worry in mind – will it remain fully framed. We have no doubt that the new model will remain a genuine body-on-frame SUV, with a rugged nature that will ensure excellent off-road capabilities and overall performance.
Naturally, the new platform will bring significant improvements and we have no doubt it will be the same one that underprints the new Land Cruiser, as well as the upcoming Tundra. The new 4Runner should come with significant weight savings, as well as with a more advanced suspension setup, which would make it better on the road. Naturally, we count on all kinds of off-road features, such as full-time 4WD, locking differentials, two-speed transfer case, skid plates, off-road tires and many more.
Exterior
When it comes to exterior design, we count on completely new aesthetics. We presume that a lot of inspiration could be taken from the new Land Cruiser 300. What’s more interesting is the size. We don’t expect that Toyota engineers don’t want to sacrifice its off-road potential. Therefore, it probably won’t get much bigger. The overall proportions should remain pretty similar to the current model. We could say the same for the wheelbase.
Toyota designers will certainly offer completely new styling, with the implementation of the brand’s latest design language. Of course, some inspiration should be taken from the new Land Cruiser, as well as from the upcoming Tundra, but keep in mind that this model is offered exclusively in North America, so we may see some unique styling bits as well.
Interior
Of course, big 2023 Toyota 4Runner changes are expected on the inside as well. The current model looks really outdated, so we expect a lot of improvements from the new generation. This particularly refers to the dashboard, which should utilize finer materials and feature better build quality in a generation. Furthermore, we also expect to see much more tech goodies, whether it’s about infotainment, driver aids or convenience features.
Considering that the overall size probably won’t change too much, the amount of interior space should remain the same as well. Most likely, base models will come with two rows of seats, while the third would be optional.
2023 Toyota 4Runner Engine
The current model comes with a large and thirsty 4.0-liter V6, which puts out 270 horsepower. Also, it uses an ancient 5-speed automatic transmission, so it’s obvious that the new model will come with significant changes. At this point, the officials are still quiet. However, if they listen to buyers, they will definitely offer more power in the new model. This leads us to a completely new V6 engine, maybe turbocharged. The other possibility is to see a hybrid powertrain. It is expected to see the new Tundra with such a setup, so we might see it under the hood of this model as well. Still, keep in mind that such a powertrain would make the 2023 Toyota 4Runner price notably higher.
Besides the new engine, we also count on a new transmission. The current 5-speed unit will be replaced with something with more gears, probably with an 8- or 10-speed automatic transmission.
2023 Toyota 4Runner Release Date and Price
When it comes to the 2023 Toyota 4Runner release date, we expect to see the new model sometime in the second half of the next year. When it comes to the price, we presume that base versions could go somewhere between 35.000 and 40.000 dollars.
The key competitors are smaller SUVs like Wrangler and Bronco. However, keep in mind all those rumors that suggest comebacks of models like GMC Jimmy, Nissan Xterra etc.
