Toyota 4Runner 2023 Experience:
- 2023 Toyota 4Runner ($39,455 – $54,020)
- Pros: The Toyota 4Runner remains one of the greatest off-road rigs on the market. It also has great resale value.
- Cons: The 4Runner’s on-road driving dynamics are quite impressive, and the car itself is in need of an update.
The 4Runner is a staple in the SUV segment. Its truck-based chassis has proven its value for over 40 years, and the latest 2023 model has shown us just how good it is… again. We’ve tested many trucks and ATVs over the past two years, and none hit quite like the 4Runner. Its off-road capability is almost unmatched, and it’s easy to drive on a daily basis.
, which should include a new platform. But for now, we had our last run of the fortyy Anniversary Edition, which sounded like Toyota’s swan song for the dying 4Runner generation.
What’s new for 2023?
For 2023, the 4Runner was introduced to celebrate its time in the market so far. The new version is based on the existing SR5 Premium trim level but adds some 40th Anniversary badging inside and out, bronze wheels, and a three-tone exterior decal that runs the length of the side of the vehicle.
The Japanese automaker also only makes 4,040 examples of this special edition, which is a fitting number. Additionally, blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on every model.
Which trim level is the 2023 Toyota 4Runner right for you?
When deciding on an a, there are eight different levels to choose from:
- 5 SAR: 39,355 USD
- TRD Sport: $42,415
- 5 riyals premium: $42,615
- TRD Off-Road: $43,400
- TRD Off-Road Premium: $45,980
- 40y Anniversary: $47,120
- Limited: $48,790
- TRD Pro: $54,020
Buyers looking for the best value should check out the TRD off-road model. It’s not as hard-core as the original TRD Pro, but it comes with enough off-road chops—like multi-terrain selection, locking rear differential, and Crawl Control—to make even the trickiest trail work easier.
Our test this week was the all-new Toyota 4Runner 40y Anniversary Edition, which provided a good balance between on-road presence and off-road capability.
What’s it like driving a 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
Driving the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is a fun experience but not a very relaxing one. The body-on-frame construction makes it feel a little bumpy, even at highway speeds. Also, it rides quite high for a midsize SUV, which can make getting in and out of it a bit choreographed. Plus, the 4Runner’s steering feels numb, and sluggish throttle response makes it feel sluggish. But again, this is not a racing car.
On the moderate off-road tracks we drove it on, these traits weren’t something we could complain about. The V6 engine under the hood hauled the 4Runner up hills with ease, and the slow steering ratio made it easy to correct on uneven surfaces. However, the brakes leave much to be desired. Although they stopped the car well, the brake pedal was squishy and didn’t inspire much confidence when going downhill.
Ultimately, the 4Runner is great to drive when you’re cruising through a forest or cruising along a dirt road, but we’re not saying it’s the most practical or comfortable daily driver. However, we are sure that any Toyota 4Runner fan would not mind.
Is 4Runner comfortable?
Yes. Toyota 4Runner has plenty of space in the first and second rows. The seats are also comfortable, but not as supportive as we would like. An eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat is standard, as is a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The seat back can be split in a 40/20/40 configuration, and the seat backs can be folded and reclined for added comfort or better storage.
Visibility is great from all angles too, and we were able to park the 4Runner in tight spots just fine. One thing to note is that buyers should by no means expect a luxury ride. The 4Runner’s suspension definitely shines off-road.
How is the technology at 4Runner?
The 2023 Toyota $runner comes with a push-button start system, LED head and tail lights, an 8-inch touchscreen, two USB ports, and Apple Carplay/Android Auto phone integration. A JBL premium sound system is available on higher trim levels, as is the 15-speaker sound system. A technology package that includes a panoramic display and Homelink system can also be added.
Admittedly, while 4Runner has all the technology it needs, it’s in dire need of a tech update to keep up with competitors and its stable mates.
Does the 2023 4Runner have a lot of power?
Each trim level is powered by the same 4.0-liter V6 engine that makes 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Actually, nothing to sneeze at, considering they’ve served this truck well for over a decade. However, we wouldn’t be surprised if Toyota updates the powertrain in future models.
Also, the V6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, which directs power to the rear wheels. However, an all-wheel drive configuration is available, and it’s easy to select with a turn of the knob.
How Safe Is The 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2023 4Runner an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars. In addition, the IIHS gave it a “good” rating in all categories except the “small front overlap” category, where it had a “marginal” rating. That being the case, the 4Runner did not qualify for the “Top Safety Pick” award.
This does not mean that it is not safe. The Toyota 4Runner comes standard with a host of safety features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
MotorBiscuit gives the 2023 Toyota 4Runner an official rating of 7.7 out of 10
The editors at MotorBiscuit rated the 2023 Toyota 4Runner an overall rating of 7.7 out of 10. We love the tried-and-true Toyota 4Runner body design, which is great for off-road driving. However, the SUV is showing its age badly and needs updating. Yet it’s still a reliable off-road platform that can double as a daily driver if needed. We can’t wait for the next release, but we’ll enjoy this one until it lasts.
