The Toyota 4Runner is one of the most reliable and versatile off-roaders on the market, rivaling the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and many other machines. What this 4Runner has that the others do not, is that its fifth-generation version was launched back in 2009. Whether that is a good thing or not is debatable, but what should we expect for the model year 2024? What new features will we get with this model? Here’s a guide on what to expect from the 2024 Toyota 4Runner, set to debut later this fall.

What To Expect From The 2024 Toyota 4Runner

What we can do is compare new releases to past models and competitors. Toyota recently updated us on the 2024 4Runner, so it’s time to look at the details and amenities for this awesome off-roader.

Staying In The Fifth Generation

Toyota is famous for its reliability with sedans like the Corolla and Camry. However, the automaker wants a stronger foothold in the truck and SUV markets to appeal to off-road fans. We’ve seen a complete overhaul of the Toyota lineup in the last few years, featuring more off-road-friendly components. 

Toyota has revamped the Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia between the 2022 and 2024 model years. It looks like Toyota will make us wait another year for the 4Runner because the 2024 vehicle will remain in the fifth generation. We expect Toyota to introduce the sixth generation as soon as the 2025 edition.

Getting A New Paint Job

What’s new for 4Runners? The primary news from Toyota is a new paint job. This vehicle features Terra exterior finish. This exclusive color for the TRD Pro trim is a mix of brown and burnt orange, resembling clay. The unique color symbolizes the outdoors and the dirt our off-roaders traverse, so it’s a solid aesthetic.

Toyota Delivers The Off-Road Goods For The TRD Equipped 4Runners

Like the 2023 model, numerous trims are available to fit anybody’s needs. The Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and the TRD Pro highlight the most capable off-roaders in the 2024 lineup. So what will these vehicles offer?

Toyota pairs the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models with CRAWL Control, which modulates the throttle when navigating challenging obstacles. With crawl control, the 4Runner will ensure a safe and low speed the entire time. This feature makes rock crawling much more manageable, safer, and more fun.

The TRD Pro trim is designated as the best off-road vehicle for the 4Runner lineup. Besides the paint job, the 4Runner TRD Pro will have Black TRD alloy flow-form wheels, Nitto Terra Grappler tires. The Cherry on the cake are the specially tuned Fox internal bypass shocks and TRD-tuned coil springs which provide an extra inch of front lift for enhanced off-road capabilities.

In the rear, Fox shocks feature piggyback-style remote reservoirs and maintain superior damping performance over demanding off-road terrain. This setup offers the best of both worlds, shocks tuned for improved trail driving while providing high-speed performance without compromising on-road comfort and steering response.

Underneath like on all Toyota TRD Pro vehicles, the 4Runner TRD Pro features a 1/4-inch-thick aluminum front skid plate with red TRD lettering. The TRD roof rack is exclusive to 4Runner.

All 4Runner drivers can also use the multi-terrain select system to correspond with the terrain they’re driving. This feature comes standard. 

Checking The Specs

When looking at new vehicles, we love checking the specifications to see what’s new however, the 2024 4Runner remains mostly unchanged. We anticipate big updates in the future.

The Toyota 4Runner Engine Stays Strong

The 2024 4Runner will stick to its old ways with a 4.0-L V6 engine producing about 270 horsepower and about 278 lb-ft of torque, just like the 2023 model. The engine receives the Toyota touch with dual independent variable valve timing to increase torque no matter the terrain.

We’ll likely soon see the 4Runner shift away from the 4.0-L engine and use a 2.4-L engine instead. Toyota has set a precedent of downsizing with the Tacoma and other popular models to increase efficiency and achieve set CAFE standards. We can expect similar changes should happen with the 4Runner in the next generation.

It’s only a matter of time before we see Toyota implement the New Global Architecture-F (TNGA-F) program for the 4Runner to make the vehicle more efficient. Expect the sixth generation to have the TNGA-F platform and other modern innovations, such as a hybrid powertrain.

We were anticipating news on a hybrid 4Runner, but that may have to wait until next year. New off-road enthusiasts are inclined to adapt toward hybrid and fully electric models like the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Toyota has publically indicated that its future products will continue to innovate efficient powertrains.

Suspension And Towing

The Limited grade and new TRD Sport 4Runners now have X-REAS which is a Cross-Linked Relative Absorber System (X-REAS) suspension to enhance on-road handling. However, there are some treats for off-roaders. Going off-road requires a tough and durable suspension, and that’s what we get with the 2024 4Runner. This includes a rock-solid body-on-frame construction, a solid rear axle with a four-link coil rear suspension, a lateral rod, and a stabilizer bar. 

The TRD Off-Road trim comes with Toyota’s dynamic suspension system, letting drivers adjust their vehicles for on and off-road adventures. For instance, the 4Runner suspension lowers its sway resistance and alters the lean resistance once the rider goes off-road.

What would an off-roader be without towing capacities? The 2024 model tows up to 5,000 pounds and provides a 500-pound maximum for the tongue weight. The towing capacity keeps the 4Runner ahead of the Jeep Wrangler and most of its competitors.

Featuring Safety Enhancements

Last but not least, the 2024 4Runner will come with standard safety features instead of requiring an upgrade. All trims will feature a multi-terrain monitor to enhance safety. The monitor shows front, rear, and side camera views to ensure we’ve covered all our bases before hitting the road.

Another standard feature on all 4Runners is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). TSS contains numerous driver-assistance components to prevent accidents and reduce impact when they happen. The 4Runner’s TSS features detect pedestrians, lane departure and swaying.

Rolling the Paved Carpet for the 4Runner

After much anticipation, we finally know what’s coming with the 2024 Toyota 4Runner. The upcoming model will feature much of the same components plus a new terra paint job. Will this 4Runner be the last of the fifth generation?