Toyota has announced on Oct. 3 the 2024 4Runner SUV, available in 2WD or 4WD. This marks the fifth generation for the 4Runner, with grades including the SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited, and TRD Pro.

The 4Runner TRD Pro offers a standard multi-terrain monitor. The Limited grade has a standard panoramic view monitor, which provides a similar function for checking surroundings when maneuvering the vehicle in tight spaces.

All 2024 4Runner models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), a suite of driver-assist technologies that includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with sway warning system, automatic high beams, and high-speed dynamic radar cruise control.

The 4Runner TRD Sport grade joins the 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models in the line. The 2024 4Runner TRD Sport adds the cross-linked relative absorber system (X-REAS) suspension to enhance on-road handling.

4Runner’s Limited grade and new TRD Sport are also adding X-REAS to their suspension features.

A 270-horsepower DOHC 4.0-liter V6 engine with 278 lb.-ft. of peak torque is also featured on the 4Runner. The engine’s dual independent variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps optimize torque across the engine’s operating range responsiveness in a variety of driving conditions. All models can tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds, with a maximum 500-pound tongue weight.

Exclusive to the 4Runner Limited, a full-time 4WD system uses a Torsen center differential with a locking feature and a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. The system employs a 40:60 torque split in most driving situations and alters that in response to slippage.

In addition, if the front wheels are slipping while the vehicle is turning, the Torsen differential changes the split to 30:70. If the rear wheels slip while the vehicle is turning, the split changes to 53:47.

Maximum Capability

The 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models are equipped with an electronic-locking rear differential and Toyota’s crawl control (CRAWL) feature. The latter helps maintain a constant speed in low-speed, off-road situations, enhancing vehicle control when driving up, over, or down obstacles.

With the transfer case shifted into low range, CRAWL regulates engine speed and braking force to slowly move the vehicle forward or in reverse at one of the five driver-selectable, low-speed settings. This function allows the driver to focus on steering without having to modulate the throttle or brake pedal in challenging terrain.

As trail conditions change, the driver can adapt to the amount of traction using the standard multi-terrain select system using a dial to choose a mode that matches prevailing surface conditions. The system will then adjust the wheel slip control accordingly.

TRD Pro

Like other Toyota TRD Pro vehicles, the 4Runner TRD Pro features a 1/4-inch-thick aluminum front skid plate with red TRD lettering. The TRD roof rack is exclusive to 4Runner.

Inside, the TRD Pro features HVAC controls like the one found in the Limited grade, plus a standard moonroof and Premium Audio with JBL speakers featuring Clari-Fi technology.

On and Off-Road Suspension

For even greater off-road prowess, the TRD Off-Road grade can be equipped with Toyota’s optional kinetic dynamic suspension system (KDSS). The KDSS system hydraulically adjusts the lean resistance provided by the stabilizer bars.

Sway resistance is reduced for off-road driving to help minimize any tendency for wheel lift.