Flash Drive

2016 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

June 14, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2016 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 TRD Pro

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is rugged SUV capable of handling almost any terrain with ease.
The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is rugged SUV capable of handling almost any terrain with ease.

Engine: 4.0-liter V-6 gas, 270 horsepower, 278 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission, part-time four-wheel-drive

EPA Ratings: 17/city, 21 highway, 18 combined

Base Price: $41,550

As Tested: $42,450

Performance:

Powerful engine, ample torque

Great hill climbing prowess

Extremely capable off-road

TRD tuned suspension

17-inch TRD wheels; P265/70R-17 tires

Aggressive wheels and tires plus ample ground clearance enhance the 4Runner's off-road prowess.
Aggressive wheels and tires plus ample ground clearance enhance the 4Runner’s off-road prowess.

Electric locking rear differential

Bilstein shock absorbers

Multi-Terrain Select function for varying conditions

Crawl Control for tricky hills

Auto, Eco, and 4×4 modes

Ample obstacle clearance

Not a poser; it’s as tough as it looks

Decent highway ride despite aggressive tread pattern

Comfort:

Stretch-out driver and front passenger legroom

Driver side power lumbar adjustment

Very thick, contoured leather steering wheel

Both rows of seating provide ample legroom and well-supported seats.
Both rows of seating provide ample legroom and well-supported seats.

OK auxiliary controls

Excellent headroom

Heated front seats

Very good rear seat legroom even with front seats all back

Low floor hump

Adult can fit in center position, but seatback is hard

Utility:

Big liftgate with ample clearance

Power rear window

Large cargo area

Flat cargo floor

Cargo loops

Split rear seat

Slight incline to folded seats

Small rise between cargo deck and folded seatbacks

Toyota 4Runner cargo room is excellent with a large, flat floor.
Toyota 4Runner cargo room is excellent with a large, flat floor.

Big, deep console bin

Large front door bins

Medium locking glovebox

Two-part sun visors

Small rear door bins

Wow Factors:

Incredibly capable off-road

Aluminum skid plates

Great variety of off-road features

Tough looking and tough performing

Very macho, lots of black trim and wheels

Whines:

Long wheelbase makes inner city parking tricky

Heavy-duty suspension components including Blistein shocks are part of the TRD package.
Heavy-duty suspension components including Blistein shocks are part of the TRD package.

Grab handles a little skinny for a rugged 4×4

Kind of thirsty; we averaged 15.7 mpg

Bottom Line:

The 2016 4Runner TRD Pro isn’t a glorified station wagon. it’s a bona fide off-road bruiser. It handles city and highway driving fine, but it shines the brightest under challenging conditions. It would be great for taking the family skiing in the harshest weather conditions.