- A 4Runner Hybrid in line with Toyota’s electrification goals
- Design & Mechanicals
- Next-gen 2024 Toyota 4Runner Release Date & Price
Just a while back, Toyota announced the launch of the 2023 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition in the U.S. market. With only 4,040 units allotted, this version of one of America’s most popular SUVs should have no issues finding buyers.
However, in this story, we’re discussing the future of America’s favorite off-roader. The 2024 evolution of the 4Runner (2024 Toyota 4Runner) will likely see the gasoline-only model transform into one with a hybrid powertrain.
A 4Runner Hybrid in line with Toyota’s electrification goals
Toyota is moving towards electrifying its complete portfolio and has assured 70 electrified global models by 2025. With the new and full-size Sequoia SUV and Tundra pickup already being hybrids, it’s safe to expect the next 4Runner to be one, too. In fact, by 2025, all Toyota models will be available with electrified options as well.
Design & Mechanicals
The current iteration of the 4Runner has had its styling spruced up a few times since 2009 and shares several similarities with the Tacoma pickup stablemate. The next-gen Tacoma has already been spied, and spy shots have left enough hints about the design and styling changes. At the least, we expect Toyota to do the same when it comes to the 2024 4Runner, with double-slat horizontal grille bars and a boxy shape to differentiate it from Toyota’s own monocoque SUVs.
Like in the next-gen Tacoma, the 4Runner should ride on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform. The latest iterations of the Sequoia and Tundra already use this platform. Improvements over the current SUV should include weight savings, better ride quality, cabin quietness, and better safety. We also expect the suspension system of the next 4Runner to be updated for additional comfort.
Features
Like in the latest Tundra, the entry-level trims of the 2024 Toyota 4Runner will likely come with an 8-inch infotainment system, while the higher variants should get the new Toyota Audio Multimedia System, which was developed in the U.S. Boasting a larger 14-inch panel, this system will offer better resolution, faster response & crisper graphics, and will likely also integrate Toyota’s new Intelligent Assistant. In that case, customers can even ask the assistant to tell them jokes after a hard day!
The all-new Toyota Audio Multimedia system was developed in Texas, and has OTA capability. Image: Toyota
Even this larger screen will come with at least one physical dial to allow quick changes to the media volume. Apart from that, the new Toyota Audio Multimedia system also comes with various connected services such as Drive Connect, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Moreover, the 2024 4Runner would get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, surround-view cameras, heated and cooled front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a JBL premium audio system.
Powertrain
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner has at least a couple of options to choose from when it goes down the hybrid route. There’s the highly capable i-Force Max hybrid powertrain which powers the likes of the Sequoia and Tundra. It utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with a single electric motor housed between the engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, a 1.87 kWh sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery sits under the rear seats. The combined system output is 437 hp and 583 lb.-ft of torque.
While these figures suit those bigger trucks well, Toyota may wish to rein in some of that power and torque on the smaller 4Runner. Hence, the company could also use the Hybrid Max powertrain that currently does duty in the 2023 Toyota Crown. In that car, a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a direct shift 6-speed automatic gearbox are mated to dual electric motors, one on each axle. The net output here is 340 hp, while also benefitting from lower fuel consumption than in the i-Force Max unit.
Next-gen 2024 Toyota 4Runner Release Date & Price
While Toyota hasn’t disclosed anything regarding the next-gen 4Runner, we expect it to begin testing next year, and reach dealers within 18 months. The addition of an electrified powertrain and other updates should push the price upward, with the hybrid version starting at around USD 45,000. That said, we will update the story as new information comes to the surface!
Featured image: Toyota Pressroom
Shrawan Raja Founder & CEO
An automobile engineer by qualification, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005 and reviewed electric vehicles since 2008. In my 15 years in the online automotive publishing, I’ve edited around 35,000 articles.
Keyword: Next-gen 2024 Toyota 4Runner likely to be another Hybrid SUV