TRD Pro squad has a new member. More off-road enthusiasts will turn to the large SUV – Sequoia. The 2021 Toyota 4Runner will remain one of the most favorite vehicles for such adventures, but some fans will turn their attention to other models because of the fresh design. Also, have in mind that the new Ford Bronco is on the way. According to the latest rumors, this is going to be the off-road SUV. The competition is going to respond to this challenge, so the 4Runner could get more rivals.
So, the old-school three-row SUV could get a redesign after so many years. First spy shots are already here, but it is too early to speak about the final version. Rumors are numerous, but one thing is sure – the 2021 Toyota 4Runner diesel is not going to happen. Just forget about this option. The company focuses on styling, safety, and infotainment, and the engineers are having free time this season.
No Diesel, Toyota Focuses on Hybrid Drivetrains
Chiefs are now made it clear – big rigs are not getting diesel units in the US. Sorry fans, but it is what it is. So, Tundra, Tacoma, Sequoia, and 4Runner will continue to generate power from petrol engines. However, the Japanese company will focus on the development of powerful hybrid units that will be able to deliver enough juice for such off-road models. Toyota is serious about it, and we can already find rumors pointing that Tacoma could be the first of the abovementioned models to get such a source of power. Cleaner energy is a future of the automotive industry, while diesel units will face more complicating regulations and requirements.
2021 Toyota 4Runner Specs
The base version of the 2021 Toyota 4Runner will continue to use a huge V6 displacement. A 4.0-liter unit is delivering 270 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. That is exactly what makes the SUV different from its rivals. Well, there is a drivetrain configuration and capability for further tuning. But, the powerful and reliable source of power is definitely a great starting point. Power goes to rear wheels by default, while Toyota is offering a part-time AWD for upper trim levels. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard, while the towing capacity is capped at 5,000 lbs.
2021 Toyota 4Runner Redesign, Spy Photos, and More Rumors
Both the interior and exterior of the 2021 Toyota 4Runner will suffer a lot of changes. The SUV is capable, but the look is outdated. It will keep a seven-seat layout. However, we don’t need this for trim levels oriented for an off-road drive. TRD Pro version comes with two rows of seats and more space for cargo. The base model SR5 is not going to offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. These services are now part of the Entune infotainment, which is also heading to the new generation. We expect it by the 2021 season.
Outside, the SUV will keep current dimensions. Small modifications are possible. The company will go out with the same trim levels. If you want a lighter off-road package, there are other versions of the TRD model. Well, prototypes we see on spy photos are not showing exactly in which way designers are developing the SUV, but experts believe there will be more space under the body.
TRD Pro Changes
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro remains the most interesting model in the lineup. If you choose this package, you can go anywhere. Well, the price is also premium. But, the company is updating its TRD features. First, they added the Sequoia SUV to the lineup. Now, new options are on the way, according to leaking sources. These are not confirming exactly what is going on, but the company is developing new accessories which will raise the off-roading to another level.
2021 Toyota 4Runner vs Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler
Currently, 4Runner and Jeep Wrangler are the off-road specialists in the SUV range. There are differences in design, size, and specs, but both models have their fans. Also, both vehicles will get the new rival soon. Ford Bronco is one of the hottest models we are expecting in the last decade. Ever since the Blue Oval company announced it, the fans went crazy. The latest spy photos are showing a boxy SUV, while sources are claiming that Ford will make it capable of an off-road ride. It will shake the market, but we need to see what Bronco has to say about it.
Learn all about the new Bronco HERE
2021 Toyota 4Runner Release Date
First, fans will see the new Bronco, and then, Toyota is responding with the redesigned 4Runner. We believe the 2021 YM is not coming in the first three quarters of 2020. However, the Japanese carmaker is ready for a delay if that will make them more competitive in the market. After the redesign, we will see the new pricing for the 4Runner SUV. The base model will probably start at the same level, while more options will be available for upper trims, making them more expensive.