The 2024 4Runner is Toyota's redesigned midsize SUV with a body-on-frame structure, standard all-wheel drive, and three rows of seating
Toyota completely rebuilt the 4Runner for 2024 after a 13-year run of the previous generation. The new model sits on a separate steel frame rather than a car platform, rides on a new suspension system, and comes standard with all-wheel drive on every trim level. It seats up to eight passengers across three rows, though the third row is tight for adults on longer trips.
The engine is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Toyota estimates fuel economy at 20 to 22 miles per gallon combined, depending on which all-wheel-drive system you choose. The base price starts around $48,000 for the SR trim, with higher trims reaching into the $60,000 range before options.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 4Runner is a complete redesign with a traditional body-on-frame structure, not a unibody like many competitors, which affects how it handles and what it costs to repair.
- All-wheel drive is standard on every trim, and Toyota offers two different all-wheel-drive systems depending on the model you choose.
- The new turbocharged engine is smaller and more fuel-efficient than the old V8, but produces less total power and may feel less responsive when towing or climbing steep grades.
- The third row is usable for children or short trips, but adults will find it cramped on long drives, so consider your actual seating needs before committing.
- Toyota's warranty covers the powertrain for five years or 60,000 miles, and the full vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, which is shorter than some competitors offer.
How the new frame and suspension change what the 4Runner does
The 2024 4Runner returns to a body-on-frame design, meaning the steel frame is separate from the body panels bolted on top. This is the same structure Toyota used in the previous generation and is common in trucks and traditional SUVs. The benefit is that the frame can flex and absorb impacts without transferring all the stress to the cabin, which matters on rough terrain and when towing. The trade-off is that body-on-frame vehicles tend to sway more on highways and feel less planted than unibody SUVs like the Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9.
Toyota redesigned the suspension with a double-wishbone front end and a multi-link rear, replacing the older torsion-bar setup. This new suspension is tuned for both on-road comfort and off-road capability, though it leans slightly toward comfort on paved roads. The 4Runner has an approach angle of 30 degrees, a departure angle of 27 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees — measurements that tell you how steep a hill the vehicle can climb or descend without scraping the undercarriage. These numbers are respectable for a midsize SUV but not exceptional compared to dedicated off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.
Engine performance and fuel economy compared to the old 4Runner
The outgoing 4Runner used a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 that made 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The new turbocharged four-cylinder produces 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, so it matches or slightly exceeds the old engine on paper. In real-world driving, however, the turbo engine feels less responsive because it delivers power differently — turbos build boost gradually, while naturally aspirated engines respond when ready to throttle input. This matters most when you are towing or climbing a steep grade, where the old V8 felt more eager.
Fuel economy improves significantly. The old 4Runner averaged 16 to 18 miles per gallon combined depending on driving conditions. The new model achieves 20 to 22 miles per gallon, which saves roughly $500 to $800 per year in fuel costs if you drive 12,000 miles annually at current gas prices. The turbocharged engine also runs on regular unleaded gasoline, not premium, which further reduces fuel costs. Towing capacity drops slightly from 5,000 pounds to 4,700 pounds, so if you regularly tow a large trailer, the new 4Runner may not be the right fit.
All-wheel-drive systems and when each one makes sense
Toyota offers two all-wheel-drive systems on the 2024 4Runner: Dynamic Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive on the SR and SR5 trims, and Multi-Mode All-Wheel Drive on the Limited and Platinum trims. The Dynamic Torque Vectoring system is simpler and lighter, distributing power between the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions. The Multi-Mode system adds a two-speed transfer case that lets you shift between different drive modes — Normal, Sport, Eco, Mud and Sand, Rock, and Snow — each of which adjusts how power flows to the wheels.
For most buyers, the Dynamic Torque Vectoring system is sufficient for daily driving and light off-road use like forest roads or gravel parking areas. The Multi-Mode system is worth the upgrade if you plan to take the 4Runner on serious trails, tow frequently, or live in an area with extreme weather. The Multi-Mode system also allows you to lock the center differential, which forces the front and rear axles to turn at the same speed — a feature that helps when climbing steep rocky terrain or crossing deep water. This system adds roughly $2,000 to the vehicle's price.
Interior space, seating, and cargo room
The 2024 4Runner seats up to eight passengers: two in front, three in the middle row, and three in the back. The front seats are comfortable and supportive for long drives, with good lumbar support and adjustable cushioning on higher trims. The middle row slides and reclines, and on Limited and Platinum models, the middle seats have heating and cooling. The third row is genuinely tight — it is designed for children or teenagers, not adults, and legroom is only 26 inches, which means an adult's knees will touch the seat in front of them.
Cargo space behind the third row is 16 cubic feet, which is roughly the size of a large suitcase. If you fold the third row flat, you get 48 cubic feet, and folding both the second and third rows opens up 84 cubic feet of space. This is less than the Honda Pilot, which offers 18 cubic feet behind the third row and 94 cubic feet with all rows folded. If you regularly carry large items or need to transport a family of seven or eight on long trips, the 4Runner's interior may feel cramped.
Technology, safety features, and warranty coverage
The 2024 4Runner comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen on the SR trim, with a larger 12.3-inch screen available on higher trims. All models include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless versions are standard on Limited and Platinum trims. The infotainment system is responsive and straightforward, though it lacks some of the advanced customization options found in luxury brands. Wireless charging is available on Limited and Platinum models, and a panoramic sunroof is an option on all trims except the base SR.
Safety features include Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which is standard across all trims. This package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping information. The 4Runner received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, though it scored four stars in the side-crash test, which is lower than some competitors. Toyota's warranty covers the powertrain for five years or 60,000 miles, and the full vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles. This is shorter than Hyundai's 10-year powertrain warranty or Kia's similar coverage, so factor in potential repair costs after the warranty expires.
Trim levels and what each one includes
The SR is the base model and includes all-wheel drive, the 2.4-liter turbo engine, an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. It does not include leather seats, a power liftgate, or heated seats. The SR5 adds leather upholstery, a power liftgate, heated front seats, and a few other comfort features, and costs roughly $3,000 more than the SR.
The Limited trim includes the larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated and cooled middle-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, and the Multi-Mode All-Wheel Drive system. The Platinum is the top trim and adds premium leather, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a 360-degree camera system, and additional interior trim upgrades. Most buyers find the SR5 or Limited to be the best value, as the Platinum's upgrades are largely cosmetic and add $5,000 or more to the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 2024 4Runner compare to the Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9?
The 4Runner is body-on-frame and designed for off-road use, while the Pilot and CX-9 are unibody vehicles optimized for on-road comfort. The Pilot and CX-9 have more cargo space and better fuel economy, but the 4Runner has more ground clearance and better approach angles for rough terrain. If you prioritize comfort and cargo space, the Pilot or CX-9 may be better choices. If you plan to use the vehicle off-road or want a more traditional SUV feel, the 4Runner is the stronger option.
Is the turbocharged engine reliable, or should I wait for a V8 option?
Toyota has not announced plans for a V8 version of the new 4Runner. The turbocharged four-cylinder is a proven design used in many Toyota models, and early reliability data shows no widespread issues. Turbocharged engines do require regular maintenance and can be more expensive to repair if something goes wrong, but Toyota's warranty covers the powertrain for five years or 60,000 miles, which provides some protection during the critical early years of ownership.
Can I fit a car seat in the third row, or is it only for cargo?
Yes, you can install a car seat in the third row — it has LATCH anchors and seat belt routing designed for child seats. However, access to the third row is tight, and you will need to fold or slide the second row to reach it. If you have multiple young children, the middle row is a better place for car seats because it is easier to access and has more space around each seat.
What is the real-world towing capacity, and does it feel stable when towing?
The official towing capacity is 4,700 pounds, but this assumes a properly equipped vehicle with the Multi-Mode All-Wheel Drive system and a weight-distribution hitch. In real-world use, many owners report that the 4Runner feels stable when towing a trailer in the 3,000 to 4,000 pound range, but heavier loads can cause noticeable sway on highways. If you regularly tow near the maximum capacity, consider a truck like the Toyota Tacoma or Tundra instead.
Should I buy now or wait for the 2025 model year?
The 2024 model is the first year of the redesign, which means Toyota is still working out any early production issues. The 2025 model year typically arrives in the fall and may include refinements based on early customer feedback. If you need a vehicle now, the 2024 is a solid choice, but if you can wait a few months, the 2025 may offer minor improvements and potentially better dealer inventory and pricing.