The Evolution of the 4Runner

The evolution of the Toyota 4Runner has changed greatly in the past 38 years since it was first introduced.

First Generation (1984-1989)

The first ever 4Runner was introduced in 1984 with only two doors, multiple trims, and powertrains. It was designed to be the mix of an SUV and a pickup. This first model was powered by a 2.4 liter, 22R inline-four carbureted engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. However, between 1988 and 1989, Toyota introduced the 3.0 liter 3VZ-E V6 in both manual and automatic transmissions. This 4Runner was definitely not the generation of power and speed, but it did kick off the well-known factor of reliability. This generation 4Runner was then replaced in 1990 with the second generation.

Second Generation (1990-1995)

The second generation 4Runner was introduced in 1990 and was known as the N120/N130 series. This generation was offered in a two door, as well as a four door, for the first three years that it was produced. After 1993, they discontinued the two door and switched to only making the four door in the SUV body style. This generation had a range of engines; from a gas engine, a diesel inline, and a V6. These different types of engines were paired with either a five speed manual or a four speed automatic transmission. The second generation was produced until 1995, when it was then taken over by the third generation.

Third Generation (1996-2002)

The third gen 4Runner made its appearance in 1996 and is said to be the best one yet, in its class. This 4Runner had two options for engines, being a 150 horsepower 2.7 4-cylinder, and a 183 horsepower 3.4 liter V6. This generation was said to drive more like a truck, rather than an SUV; which is why so many people thought that it was the best generation thus far, in off-roading. This 4Runner also came with other features to help with off-roading, like electronic stability control and A-TRAC active traction assist. A lot of people still use this generation as their go-to off-roading vehicle.

Fourth Generation (2003-2009)

The fourth generation 4Runner was not the most loved SUV when it first came out. A lot of people did not like the change of physical appearance from the third to fourth generation. The 2003 4Runner had a very large change in power and size. The base V6 engine had 245 horsepower and 283 pounds of torque. The 4.7-liter V8 had 235 horsepower and 320 pounds of torque. This generation also came with more room inside the vehicle, and stability and traction control came standard on every 4Runner. Each year, more and more updates found their way in each new 4Runner. This generation has gotten more popular in the past five years than ever, and in turn, makes them much harder to buy.

Fifth Generation (2010-Present)

The fifth, and most present generation of 4Runner was revealed at the Texas State Fair in September of 2009. Initially, the fifth generation 4Runner was offered in three different trim levels; the SR5, SR5 Premium, and the Trail Edition. However, today, we have eight different models: SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Sport, Trail Special Edition, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited, and the TRD Pro. For the first year of production (the end of 2009), there were two engines that were produced, the first was a 2.7 liter 2TR-FE inline-four and the second being a 4.0 liter 1GR-FE V6. The first engine was only produced from 2009-2010, while the second is still being produced today.

Sixth Generation (2023-?)

There is currently talk that the new generation of 4Runner will make its appearance at the end of 2023 for the 2024 model year. We do not know much about this next generation yet, however, we do know that they will start making a hybrid engine in a turbocharged 2.4 liter inline-4. As for other changes, we will just have to wait until next fall to see what is in store for the evolution of the next generation 4Runner.

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