This Is The First All-New Toyota 4Runner Since 2009

It’s been a while since the last genuinely new Toyota 4Runner. 15 years, in fact. In that time, the fifth-generation SUV introduced to North America has undergone several updates but now the sixth generation has landed with a hybrid engine, more safety tech and just the nine trim choices…

Underpinning the new 4Runner is the same TNGA-F platform that also plays host to the Tacoma pick-up, so it’s no surprise that it gets an identical engine line-up.

That includes a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-pot as standard with 278bhp and 317lb-ft of torque, as well as the first 4Runner hybrid which pairs that unit with an electric motor. The result is 326bhp and 465lb-ft of torque. In case you have any concerns over the hybrid’s ability to tow stuff, Toyota says it’ll be able to haul up to 6,000 pounds (that’s 2,722kg to those of us across the Atlantic).

You'll be able to opt for the 4Runner in 2WD, complete with an automatic LSD, as well as part-time or full-time 4WD versions - each adding an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case to the mix. Limited spec will also be offered with a centre-locking diff optional on the hybrid, and standard on Platinum.

Those are just two of the nine trim choices, with the others namely SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road (sensing a theme here?), TRD Off Road Premium, TRD Pro and Trailhunter.

We’re not going to detail every version to save losing your interest, but the Trailhunter is worthy of the spotlight for a moment. Designed especially with overlanding in mind, it gets 2.5-inch ARB Old Man Emu forged shocks and 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tyres to raise it two inches at the front and an extra inch and a half at the rear.

There are additional skid plates underneath to protect the underside of the SUV from rocks, plus a standard-fit snorkel to improve wading capabilities. You’ll get a 20-inch LED lightbar and a 2400W AC inverter fitted, too.

All versions of the SUV will now come as standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which brings adaptive cruise control, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, automatic high beams and lane tracing assist. 

Inside, depending on which trim you opt for, there'll be a 8- or 14-inch infotainment system. Both support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto though.

We’re yet to see pricing for the new Toyota 4Runner, but it’s set to go on sale in Autumn. It’ll be a North America-only SUV, sadly for us in Europe.