The mid-size, truck-based Toyota 4Runner is one of the most off-road capable and rugged SUVs on the roads today. With the rising interest for the hardcore, off-road-ready SUVs after the introduction of the redesigned Jeep Wrangler and all-new Ford Bronco, Toyota should switch attention to the aging 4Runner and give it a full redesign soon. The current, fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner has been soldiering since 2010 and the new-generation could come as the 2022 Toyota 4Runner as the sources claim.
The leaked details suggest that the brand’s product plan should include a revamp of the body-on-frame truck range including the full-size Tundra pickup truck and 4Runner SUV. The luxury Lexus brand will also be very different in the coming model years.
The redesigned 4Runner should come on the brand’s new global platform shared with the all-new Tundra truck and large Sequoia SUV. The model should also go on sale with the evolutionary styling changes.
Bigger changes should occur inside the model’s cabin. The model will also get new powertrain solutions including a twin-turbo V-6 hybrid setup. Reports suggest also a possible suspension geometry modification.
2022 Toyota 4Runner: Design
Toyota is working on the new-generation full-size Tundra pickup truck that should use the brand’s new global truck chassis. The new global architecture-F, body-on-frame underpinning or TNGA-F should use more high-strength steel and weight-reduction materials. The result should be improved rigidity and reduced weight compared to the previous design. The new design will also allow the implementation of the latest technologies and powertrain solutions. The redesigned 2022 Toyota 4Runner should stay loyal to the body-on-frame design and adopt the TNGA-F underpinning.
From the visual standpoint, the new-generation 4Runner should evolve upon the styling of the current version. The model should also adopt some styling cues from the FTAC Concept model. The new 4Runner will get a revised grille style and new headlights. There will also be some changes in the body sculpting and redesigned rear.
Toyota will again offer various trim options with specific styling details and off-road enhancements.
Interior, Equipment:
The cabin of the 2022 Toyota 4Runner should come with more radical changes than the exterior. Reports indicate that the model should adopt some styling cues from the recently redesigned RAV4. Toyota should also upgrade material quality across the range.
At the technology level, the new 4Runner will also receive the brand’s newest systems. The model should follow modern trends and offer a massive touchscreen option. The new-generation Entune infotainment system will be available with a 12.0-inch touchscreen. The model will also offer a head-up display, a premium sound system, etc.
Toyota will again equip every version with a full Safety Sense suite. The package includes systems such as advanced radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane centering, etc. The model will also go on sale with blind-spot monitoring and surround-vision cameras.
2022 Toyota 4Runner: Performance
The redesigned 2022 Toyota 4Runner will switch to the brand’s new global truck chassis and benefit from improved structural rigidity and reduced weight. The model will also get revised suspension geometry for better off- and on-road performance. Some sources suggest it could switch to the independent rear suspension setup.
At the power level, the new 4Runner should discontinue to current 4.0-liter V-6 engine or use it in low-spec versions. The model could switch to a smaller 3.5-liter V-6 engine capable of producing around 300 hp. Another solution could be a 3.4-liter six-cylinder engine from Lexus LS500.
Like the redesigned Tundra pickup truck, the new-generation 4Runner should also adopt a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain to be the top powertrain option. The system should combine a potent twin-turbo V-6 engine and an electric setup.
The next 4Runner will again be available with the hard-core, TRD-branded off-road gear and Fox dampers, etc.
2022 Toyota 4Runner: Release, Price
The new-generation 2022 Toyota 4Runner should debut shortly after the introduction of the all-new Tundra sometime around the mid-2021. The on-sale date should be in late 2021.
Toyota will again launch the all-new 4Runner with a long-range of trim options including the TRD-badged versions. The base Toyota 4Runner should have a price close to the current version despite the level of changes. The actual model starts from $36, 020. The top-spec versions will go above $50, 000.