Only 1 Toyota SUV Still Desperately Needs a Redesign
Toyota has been redesigning some of its most outdated nameplates. The Japanese automaker is developing its lineup as it sets its sights on the future. The brand’s future is heavily reliant on a mix of internal combustion engine, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric models. It’s a new era for Toyota. One SUV still needs to be redesigned to fit the brand’s vision for the future.
It’s time for a new Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that is best known for its incredible longevity and off-roading prowess. The 4Runner can run through trails, and it’s known to last for over 200,000 miles. It’s built to last.
Toyota’s midsize SUV still offers plenty of value, but the current generation has some serious shortcomings. The 4Runner’s exterior appears antiquated compared to rivals, and it could use better quality standard interior materials. The midsize SUV’s fuel economy is also disappointing. It gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway.
Toyota recently updated the Tundra, then the Sequoia. If any Toyota SUV needs a redesign next, it’s the 4Runner. A redesign could greatly improve its fuel economy, offer better standard features, and improve the vehicle’s value proposition. The 4Runner is a decent SUV, but it just doesn’t fit with the times. The Tundra and Sequoia are arguably more appealing than ever before following their respective redesigns. If Toyota could work its magic with the 4Runner, it could be competitive again.
What problems do Toyota 4Runners have?
The Toyota 4Runner is dependable, but no vehicle is without its issues. According to RepairPal, some 4Runner owners experience automatic transmission shifting issues at high mileage. There are 263 reports of the 4Runner’s automatic transmission not shifting correctly on RepairPal.
An EVAP system issue is the second most reported 4Runner problem on RepairPal. A total of 78 drivers reported the issue. The worst 4Runner issues documented on CarComplaints include an excessive rust/corrosion problem on the 2003 model year. The next worst 4Runner issue is an undercarriage rusting problem on the 2005 model year. That being said, models from 2017-2022 have very few complaints registered on CarComplaints.com.
So, the 4Runner is still reliable, you should just be careful about which model year you choose when getting a used model. Some older model years are more reliable than others. The 2017 Toyota 4Runner is one of the most recent reliable used models that provide great value.
Should you get a 2023 Toyota 4Runner?
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is ideal for small families that regularly take the road less traveled. If you plan on off-roading with a group of passengers, the 4Runner is a great choice. It isn’t the best daily driver in its segment for small families because of its poor fuel economy.
The new 4Runner is a decent midsize SUV, but a redesign could be on the way. Based on the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Sequoia redesigns, waiting on a redesigned 4Runner could be worth it for consumers debating whether or not the 2023 model year is the best option.
