SUVs are very popular these days, with automakers expanding their SUV lineups each year. Long before this SUV trend, the Toyota 4Runner helped pioneer the segment nearly four decades ago. Despite its status as an elder statesman in the segment, the 4Runner stays ahead of the game with its new features and many different model choices. This attribute continues for the 2022 model year, with Toyota offering a new 4Runner TRD Sport model. It provides an impressive blend of on-road agility and off-road capabilities.

What’s the difference between the Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport and other 4Runner TRD models?

The 4Runner TRD Sport is the most recent addition to the high-performance and off-road capable 4Runner TRD lineup. This includes the 4Runner TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road and models. While all of the 4Runner TRD models can more than hold their own when heading off the beaten path, the 4Runner TRD Sport differs with its emphasis on on-road agility. 

The enhanced on-road handling for the 4Runner TRD Sport is primarily due to its cross-linked relative absorber system. When driving around corners or over rough terrains, the absorber system automatically modifies the damping force of the shock absorbers. Also, the absorber system reduces the yaw and pitch of the 4Runner by cross-linking the shock absorbers. 

Buyers of the 4Runner TRD Sport have a choice of either a front-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel drive system, which has a 2-speed transfer case. The 4Runner TRD Sport provides a generous amount of ground clearance. The front-wheel drive model has 9.0 inches of clearance, while the four-wheel drive model has 9.6 inches of clearance. Also, all 4Runner TRD Sport models have a full-size spare tire.

2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport design and technology features

The 4Runner TRD Sport stylistically stands out from the rest of the 4Runner lineup with its unique design features. This includes color-keyed accents on the body molding, rocker panels, and grille, black roof rails, and a signature TRD-style front spoiler and hood scoop. 

Inside the cabin of the 4Runner TRD Sport, the cabin has black-trimmed seats with gray contrast stitching. The driver and front-seat passenger can stay warm with the heating function for the seats. TRD touches for the cabin include TRD stitched logos on the front headrests, a TRD shift knob, and TRD Sport floor mats. 

With the 8-inch multimedia touchscreen display system, 4Runner TRD Sport owners can stay well-connected to their world while on the go. Features in the system include hands-free phone capability, Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a USB port, voice recognition, and music streaming. The 4Runner also offers a wi-fi connection with either a 1-month trial or 3 GB for connected services. 

Does the 2022 Toyota 4Runner have any other new additions?

In addition to the TRD Sport model, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner has several updates across the trim lineup. This includes LED high-beams, standard blind-spot monitor and cross-traffic alert for most 4Runner models, and the addition of rear occupancy alert for most models. Also, the TRD Pro benefits from the addition of a standard multi-terrain monitor.