This redesign was a long time coming, but finally, we are getting a new 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid. The 4Runner is a well-known name, it is not a new kid on the block. As a matter of fact, this is the fifth generation of SUVs. It has been on the road since 2009 so it is not refreshed per some standards. And we were waiting for quite a while to get this new model, so it was bound to get many improvements. Toyota did get better sales with the 4Runner and this might be because this is one of the rare body-on-frame SUVs. They just don’t make them this way.
Toyota aren’t about to change the winning formula that is for sure. They will go with the same design while offering many upgrades to the current SUV. Technology will get an update that is for sure. Since many competitors have much better safety and technological features, it will give the 4Runner a good toolset. The powertrain is a big question mark, we are not sure what Toyota is planning on there. But some sort of electrification is bound to happen sooner all later. On the outside, we can expect some small stylistic changes that bring better design and functionality. Let’s look at what we know so far about the upcoming 4Runner.
Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Interior
The new 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is getting a lot of changes on the inside. The seating is improved and it is a much-needed upgrade. There is new high-quality leather with contrast stitching. Heating and ventilation are also implemented. There are three rows of passenger seats in the new 4Runner so 7 passengers are possible.
However, you can take out and fold back two rows to get an amazing amount of cargo space. Comes in handy when transporting something. There is a moonroof and dual-zone climate control. The dashboard is digital which enables customization and it seems like we will be getting hands-free driving this time around. This feature can help drivers relax a bit behind the wheel.
Exterior Changes
The outside of the new 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is looking as good as ever. There are many colors to choose from with dual coloring effects. The wheel rims are lightweight to shave off some weight and improve power to weight ratio.
They are also 17 inches in size and come with all-terrain tires. Ride height is increased to make sure nothing gets stuck under. The front fascia is big and aggressive which adds to the maddening look of the SUV. Headlights are unchanged and there are running boards on the side of the vehicle for ease of access.
Acceleration, Towing Capacity, Transmission
The upcoming 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is going to surprise many. There will be only one engine option for all trims and that option is quite satisfying. There is no need for variety when you have one engine that does it all and fills every need. Although many would argue that more is better, we are quite happy with this single-engine option. The engine in question is a 4.0 liter V6 that comes with a five-speed automatic transmission. While most SUVs come with eight-speed transmissions, 4Runner is all good with fewer gears. The outmoded powertrain offers unimpressive performance, with the most recent model that was tested needing 7.7 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph.
This is not impressive by standards, but the 4Runner is a big and heavy SUV so hats off to that. It is available with back-wheel drive and either full- or part-time four-wheel-drive systems. The automatic’s sluggish reflexes undoubtedly don’t maximize the engine’s erratic performance and downshift frequently calls for strong right-foot inputs to propel the 4Runner forward. Nevertheless, compared to the more cumbersome Wrangler, the Toyota appears to be more composed on the pavement. The SUV’s substantial ground clearance was on display during our time behind the steering wheel of the off-road-focused variant, and its body-on-frame structure was backed by a gentle suspension that handled a wide range of terrain rather well.
Although the small weight and imprecise steering of the 4Runner undermine any feeling of sportiness, they are suitable for stumbling down trails and navigating parking spaces. Even though the Toyota appears dated while it is in motion, its performance is on par with that of its more contemporary rivals, such as the V-6 Dodge Durango. The Toyota also outperforms the Ford Edge and Wrangler in terms of towing ability, with a 5000-pound capacity, despite lacking in terms of the more potent Durango’s 8700-pound limit. This is due to Toyota’s tough structure and torque-rich engine.
There is no electric version or hybrid one yet. But we heard through the grapevine that Toyota plans to implement a PHEV or a mild hybrid solution. This would bring many benefits including better output, longevity, and much-needed improved fuel economy. Full electrification isn’t happening just yet and we might need to wait a couple more years for it. It would involve a lot of changes including substituting the platform for a brand-new one. So it is not a small task. But the current 4Runner option is quite satisfying.
Fuel Economy
The new 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid isn’t too good when it comes to gasoline consumption. It achieves 16mpg in the city and 19 on the open road. Much lower than the main competitors. So it is a bit baffling that Toyota didn’t help their SUV out by introducing hybrid technology. These numbers would be much better with a simple mild hybrid option and at least one electric motor.
2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Price and Release Date
The updated 2024 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is almost ready, we will be seeing it towards the end of 2023. The competition is fierce and there are many good-looking and great-performing SUVs on the market. Trims are numerous and they dictate the price and number of amenities that come with the 4Runner. We have SR5 for $40000, TRD Sport for $43000, TRD Off-Road for $44000, and 40th Anniversary Special Edition for $47000. There is also Limited Trim for $49000 and TRD Pro for $55000.