Well, excuse us, but were shocked to discover that the 2022 Toyota 4runner is in last place. The Toyota 4Runner is the worst three-row mid-size SUV when stacked up against the competition. So, let’s dive in and figure out why. 

Is the 2022 Toyota 4Runner worth buying? 

Yes, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner is an excellent three-row SUV to consider, despite ranking as the worst option to buy. It comes with plenty of standard tech, tons of passenger space, and excellent off-road capability. 

But according to Car and Driver, the 4Runner just doesn’t cut it. This SUV came in last place on their list of the mid-sized SUVs for 2022, ranked from worst to best. The 4Runner landed in 15th place while the Kia Telluride claimed the number one spot. 

Age has to do with its ranking. The 4Runner hasn’t been redesigned in 12 years. Its five-speed automatic transmission and body-on-frame chassis could seem a bit ancient. Also, the 4Runner is thirsty. It only gets an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and up to 19 mpg on the highway. 

What’s new for the 2022 4Runner? 

You can get started in a 2022 Toyota 4Runner for about $37,305. To be honest, this price does feel steep. The 4Runner comes with the same 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. 

The Highlander can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds and can tow up to 5,000 lbs. However, the brakes are a little grabby, and the 4Runner feels larger around than rivals around curves. 

Compared to rivals, the 4runner has a stiff and bouncy ride. Plus, a little more wind and road noise enter the cabin. 

The 2022 Toyota 4runner TRD Sport is a new trim level designed for city driving. It comes with 20-inch wheels, a hood scoop, and Sport badging. It comes with adaptive dampers to improve body control. This may help with the problems listed above. 

Inside, you’ll find faux-leather upholstery instead of cloth. Also, each 4Runner model now comes standard with LED high beams. A new rear-seat reminder is also standard to help people remember that their kids and pets are in the back. 

What type of features does the 2022 4Runner have? 

The 2022 Toyota 4runner features 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row with up to 89.7 cubes total. An optional pull-out cargo deck helps make loading and unloading items easier. The high ground clearance makes loading heavy items and entering the vehicle difficult. 

While the interior is a little dated and bland, it’s comfortable and functional. The front and second rows offer plenty of passenger space, but the third row is for kids only. Also, the tech has a simple, intuitive layout. 

The Toyota 4Runner comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The user experience would be enhanced by wireless connectivity and a wireless phone charger. 

Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. 

The 2022 Toyota 4runner may lead the pack in terms of off-roading ability. However, it’s old, hefty, thirsty, and less comfortable than the competition. Perhaps the 2023 Toyota 4Runner will address these issues.