Does the 4Runner have comfortable seats?
Yes. The 4Runner’s front seats are generally comfortable and supportive, with higher trims offering leather or SofTex upholstery and heated seating that can boost comfort on cold days or during long drives. Overall comfort varies by trim and interior materials.
Seat design and materials
The 4Runner uses two front bucket seats and a 60/40-split rear bench, forming a five-passenger setup across most trims. Front seats are typically supportive for longer drives, though padding depth and lumbar support depend on trim and options. Interior fabrics range from durable cloth on base trims to SofTex or leather on higher trims. Note that there is no built-in third row in current generations; the vehicle is designed for five passengers with ample cargo flexibility.
Before diving into specifics, it’s helpful to know that comfort features and upholstery options vary by trim, with more amenities generally found on mid-to-high trims.
- Front seating: Driver’s seat often offers adjustable lumbar support and height adjustments; higher trims add power-adjustment for finer control.
- Materials: Fabric on base trims; SofTex or leather on upper trims; durable upholstery designed for active use and easy cleaning.
- Comfort features: Heated front seats are commonly available on mid-to-high trims; ventilation is not widely offered.
In short, the seat materials and adjustability options give buyers a range of comfort levels, with more features available as you move up the trim ladder.
Comfort in practice: front and back seats
On the road, the front seats typically deliver solid comfort for daily commuting and longer trips, with good thigh support and reasonable lower-back support in most trims. Some base trims may feel less plush due to manual adjustments and simpler fabrics. The rear bench provides respectable comfort for adults on shorter trips, but legroom and seat cushion depth aren’t as generous as you’ll find in many mid-size crossovers, especially on longer highway drives. Off-road use can accentuate firmness in the seating, given the 4Runner’s rugged tuning, though the seats remain durable and well-suited for active use.
Front-seat experience
Most drivers will find the front seats supportive for extended drives, with adequate lumbar support and a clear driving position. Power-adjustment and lumbar controls are more common on mid-to-high trims, while base models typically feature manual adjustments. Heated front seats are a plus in cooler climates and are available on several trims.
Second-row experience
The rear seat is comfortable for adults on short to moderate trips, but tall passengers may find legroom and cushion depth less generous on longer journeys. The upright seating position and the bench design serve practicality and cargo flexibility, which is one of the 4Runner’s strengths for outdoor and family use.
Bottom line for buyers
If seat comfort is a priority, aim for mid-to-high trims to maximize upholstery quality (SofTex or leather) and conveniences like heated front seats and better seat adjustments. For the most plush feel, consider how the seats align with your body size and preferred driving position, and plan a test drive to gauge long-term comfort on your typical routes.
Summary
The Toyota 4Runner generally offers comfortable front seats with solid support and useful options that improve comfort in higher trims. The second row remains adequate for everyday use but isn’t as plush as some luxury SUVs, and the vehicle is designed for five passengers rather than adding a third row. Trim selection plays a big role in upholstery, heating, and adjustability, so a hands-on test drive is the best way to determine if the seat feel matches your needs.
