Flash Drive

2022 Toyota 4Runner

Model Tested: 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD can be equipped for serious off-roading or as an urban family vehicle.

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

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

EPA Rating: 16-mpg city, 19-mpg highway, 17-mpg combined

Base Price: $42,025

As Tested: $45,904

Performance:

Body on ladder frame toughness for off-road driving

Pretty smooth highway ride

So-so fuel economy—our best was 22.9-mpg

Even the less aggressive 4Runner models are still very capable on dirt mountain roads.

Dial for drive modes: 2H, 4H, 4L

Overhead controls for hill descent, traction control

Blind spot monitor, lane keeper

Adaptive shocks on TRD model

Electronically locking rear differential

Crawl control

Adaptive cruise control

Aggressive tires

 

Comfort:

Very good front legroom

Front seat room and comfort are excellent.

Good, adult size rear seat room

Adult can fit fine in middle position

Excellent head room

Low floor hump

Thick, contoured leather steering wheel

OK auxiliary controls

 

Utility:

Manual lift gate with ample clearance

Flat cargo deck, no lift over

High deck height

Cargo space is very good and the optional sliding cargo deck is very useful.

Large cargo area

Four cargo loops

Rear seats fold flat

Slight height difference between deck and seats

Four large seatback cargo nets

Narrow front door bins

Small front door bins

Oversize sun visors with good slide

Medium locking glovebox

OK size infotainment screen

LED, automatic high-beams

Optional wheels and tires are ideal for serious off-road adventures.

 

WOW Factors:

Rugged, traditional styling

Ample cargo space

Slick, optional sliding cargo deck

Lots of interior space

Very efficient off-road

Whines:

Less refined than most competitors

Pretty thirsty

Lethargic transmission

Bottom Line:

The various Toyota 4Runner models are also at home on city streets.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 TRD Sport is one of the most traditional truck style SUVs that excels at off-roading instead of just looking rugged as is the case with many competitors. The 4Runner has very good standard driver assistance technology and a roomy interior. The Toyota 4Runner relies more on tried and true reliability and ruggedness than flashy body cladding and electronic gizmos. For traditional off-road enthusiasts that’s a good thing.