Despite it is a pretty old model, the 4Runner off-road SUV still achieves good sales numbers. That’s one of the reasons why the Japanese automaker doesn’t work on the new-gen model. A rumor that’s going around says otherwise, though. The manufacturer is reportedly building the SUV as we speak. Moreover, the new model will be built from the ground in less than two years and will be introduced before the end of 2020 as the 2021 Toyota 4Runner.
New Design
So far, no one saw any testing prototype of the 2021 4Runner, so it’s pretty hard to imagine what’s cooking regarding the design of the mid-size off-road SUV. The automaker, however, may give a try with just a slight roof slope and rounder rear hatch. Upfront, the mid-size SUV will most probably add a redesigned grille, which could easily mirror one on the RAV4. In addition, the carmaker may reconsider to couple the new-gen Toyota 4Runner with RAV4’s headlights as well.
If you are a true fan of the 4Runner, you have to agree that the exterior design isn’t so important. Well, at least it’s not important as SUV’s abilities. The vehicle is still the amazing off-roared irrespective of its age. Still, there’s a lot to be improved for the next-gen model, chiefly its ride quality, interior, and onboard tech.
Improved Ride Quality
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner will most definitely improve its driving comfort. How do we know? Well, our spies have caught a testing prototype of the upgraded Tundra. The pickup truck is most definitely hiding a new rear suspension, which is most probably an independent rear suspension. If it’s going to be available with the workhorse, the Japanese automaker won’t miss the opportunity to use it on the new 4Runner for sure. The other possibility of there is a new setup that includes an air suspension. Either way, the mid-size SUV improves today’s choppy ride for sure.
More Power
The automaker will make the off-road SUV more powerful for sure. In place of today’s 270-hp V6, the redesigned 4Runner will reportedly get a new turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six that’s capable of producing 335 horsepower. The engine will be shifting its power to rear- or all four wheels via either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
New Cabin And Better Safety
Today’s model can’t really brag with the interior design, don’t you agree? The outdated cabin will receive a total makeover that includes softer materials, a new dashboard, and a large infotainment screen. Also, the carmaker can’t miss the chance to add the Toyota Safety Sense package as standard.
The system includes a range of useful options like lane-departure alert, auto high beams, a radar cruise control. The latest one keeps the model at a safe distance from the car ahead by speeding up or slowing down. There’s also a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection that activates audio and visual alerts to warn the driver of a possible crash; plus the new 4Runner will have automatic emergency braking to reduce the severity of or avoid a collision.
Like we said at the beginning, the redesigned 2021 4Runner will arrive sometime next year. This means that we should see some testing prototypes in the coming months, so stay tuned for updates.Read More
