2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport 4×4

Toyota 4Runner is powered by a 4.0L DOHC V6 with Dual Independent VVT-i, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The engine is accompanied by a 5-speed automatic transmission with ETC-i. I would have preferred more gears.

The 4Runner is excellent on the trail. Its strength is found in its steep climbing ability and superb ground clearance. The chassis is 9.8 inches off the ground, and the bumpers are carved to give an approach angle of 33 degrees and departure angle of 26 degrees. This allows the 4Runner to approach and depart angled surfaces with a smooth motion. However, the braking is not exceptionally good.

Hill Start Assist Control works together with X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension, part-time 4WD System, and Active Traction to make any kind of terrain manageable.

Inside, the 8-inch infotainment touchscreen provides SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and extends through Android Audio and Apple CarPlay support. SofTex-trimmed seats with TRD stitching adds to the rich good looks. The driver’s seat is 8-way power adjustable with power lumbar support. The second-row seat is 40/20/40 split reclining and fold flat.

The TRD Sport Package brings color-keyed hood scoop, black roof rails, and exterior badges. The TRD embroidered headrest is gray stitched and the shifter knob has the stitching as well.

However, the 4Runner needs to update the interior. The center dashboard needs a refresh. The cabin is wide, yet the cup holders are located in inconvenient places — either too close to the air conditioner knob and armrest, or near the shifter. Also the center console controls takes up too much cabin space. Finally, I could never find a secure area to place my phone. The center stack is just too crowded.

4Runner has Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) featuring Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beam.

The 4Runner TRD Pro tackles all sorts of terrains on 20-inch 6-spoke allow wheels. The rugged underpinning, high ground clearance, and 4-wheel drive with low range gearing can take you pretty far down the unbeaten path.

The body-on-frame construction provides an extra layer of sound suppression between the road and the cabin.

Off-roading wise, the 4Runner is superior to many other SUVs I have driven. It is a little bouncy when challenging a curve, allowing for a little body roll on the highway. But when it comes to trail driving, few are better than the 4Runner.

The MSRP for the 2022 Toyota 4Runner starts at $$38,105 for the base SR5 trim. Moving one up to the TRD Sport model bumps the prices up to $$40,950.

Warranty:
3 years/36,000 miles Basic Warranty
5 years/60,000 miles Powertrain Warranty
5 years/unlimited miles Corrosion Perforation Warranty

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].