It could be a fossil by modern SUV standards. Still, fossil fuels remain one of the most popular vehicles in Toyota’s lineup. Nearly 40 years of cult-classic popularity have culminated in a recent renaissance for Toyota. Demand is rising and prices remain high, even though the current generation 4Runner has been around for a decade. What does it give?
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner maintains its popularity by occupying a unique position of durability and capability at the height of the off-road craze.
Automotive data and intelligence. In fact, it has sold more than 100,000 4Runners every year since 2016, according to its own report. The SUV is more popular than ever.
The SUV is known for its robustness
The Toyota 4Runner has a reputation for sheer durability. Its design is time-tested, with many anecdotes of owners running their 4Runners hundreds of thousands of miles with just routine maintenance.
SUVs are getting complicated. Turbocharged engines, active suspension and ten-speed transmissions are rampant. While these advances can help SUVs keep up with modern feelings of comfort and efficiency, they can also lead to more maintenance appointments.
In this case, the 4Runner zigs while most of the others zag. Its archaic ladder frame design, ancient V6, and outdated five-speed automatic transmission are truly assets to the .
Off-road culture keeps it going
Off-roading has reached its pinnacle in automotive culture. Its rise over the last decade has kept the Toyota 4Runner popular and competitive.
The 4Runner occupies a relatively unique space in the off-road vehicle market. It’s a truck-based, body-on-frame, SUV with high ground clearance with a solid rear axle and available four-wheel drive—just the combination of features off-road enthusiasts crave. But unlike the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, it’s a fully enclosed SUV that some drivers might find more livable. On the other hand, many believe the 4Runner offers superior reliability to competitors like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover Defender. It’s a sweet spot in the market that the 4Runner just happens to nail.
Should you buy a 4Runner or another Toyota SUV?
While the Toyota 4Runner remains popular with SUV drivers, it serves a specific use case. It’s tough as nails, capable as hell, and boasts exceptional resale value. But the SUV lags far behind rivals, and even fellow Toyotas, in ride quality, safety, technology and fuel efficiency.
If the goal is an old-school SUV with analog appeal, then the 4Runner will be a runaway success. But if comfort and efficiency are higher priorities than off-road ability, Toyota’s two other best-selling SUVs take the prize: the .
