2021 Toyota 4Runner Specs and Features Explained
6Overview
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner is one of the most rugged mid-size SUVs on the market, but also one of the oldest and least refined. While its sturdy body-on-frame construction and off-road-oriented options make it seriously capable when the road ends and bolster its outdoorsy image, its plasticky interior and inefficient V-6 engine are notable flaws. Toyota has modernized this ancient four-wheeler with an impressive amount of standard driver assists and infotainment features. The 4Runner also has generous cargo space, and its roomy cabin can be outfitted with a small third row. Clumsy on-road driving behavior and a lofty price tag make the 2021 4Runner less desirable than most other popular competitors, but it remains a worthy alternative to the Jeep Wrangler—another vehicle in which off-road chops take precedence over everyday refinement.
What's New for 2021?
The latest 4Runner adds a new limited-production Trail Edition for 2021. Toyota says it will only build 4000 copies, which are based on the base SR5 model and come with rear- or four-wheel drive. The Trail Edition is equipped with 17-inch dark gray TRD wheels and black exterior badges. Inside, it has black seats with tan stitching and all-weather floor mats. The 2021 4Runner also receives newly standard LED headlights, and the TRD Pro model gets a couple of unique upgrades: a new Lunar Rock exterior color, newly designed black TRD wheels wrapped in Nitto Terra Grappler tires, and retuned dampers that Toyota says are intended to improve isolation during trail driving.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 4Runner's 4.0-liter V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission can team with either rear-, four-, or all-wheel drive. Entry-level SR5 models are rear-wheel drive, while all other trims except the tippity-top Limited model come with selectable, part-time four-wheel drive. Those models have a manually selectable two-speed transfer case with a low-range setting. Limited models have full-time all-wheel drive with a Torsen center differential that can apportion torque to the front or rear wheels as necessary, depending on road conditions and which wheels have traction. In our testing, the mid-level 4Runner TRD Off-Road model provided dutiful acceleration, its old-school V-6 groaning along with a gruff exhaust note. Aged though the Toyota feels in action, its performance is right in the mix with its more modern competitors, including the V-6 Dodge Durango. And the Toyota's rugged frame and torque-rich engine give it a leg up in towing; its 5000-pound capacity beats the Ford Edge and Wrangler, while falling short of the more powerful Durango's 8700-pound limit.