Is Toyota getting rid of 4Runner?
The answer is no. Toyota has not announced the discontinuation of the 4Runner, and the model remains in production for current and upcoming model years with ongoing updates.
The question has arisen in a market that increasingly favors unibody crossovers and electrified powertrains, all while Toyota reshapes its SUV lineup for a broader electrification push. While the aging 4Runner platform and shifting consumer preferences spark speculation, the company has not signaled an end to the rugged midsize SUV in the near term.
Current status and recent updates
As of the 2025 model year, the Toyota 4Runner continues to be offered in North America. It retains its traditional body-on-frame construction and off-road-focused identity, a niche that remains loyal to buyers who prize durability and trail capability. Toyota has issued limited updates and several special-edition variants in recent years, underscoring a continued commitment to the model. There has been no official plan from Toyota to retire the 4Runner, even as the broader SUV market shifts toward electrified crossovers and unibody platforms.
What is driving the debate about the 4Runner’s future
Here are the factors that will influence whether Toyota keeps or retires the nameplate in the coming years.
- Sales performance relative to rivals in the mid-size SUV segment
- Age of the platform and compatibility with evolving emissions, safety, and technology standards
- How Toyota balances rugged, traditional off-road models against newer unibody crossovers and electrified options
- Potential for a hybrid or battery-electric variant to maintain relevance in a changing market
- Market demand in North America versus other regions and the company’s global product strategy
Bottom line: Toyota will weigh profitability, brand identity, and customer demand. If the 4Runner continues to attract buyers, it will likely persist in the lineup for the near term; if demand wanes, Toyota could pivot toward newer platforms or different off-road-focused offerings.
Implications for buyers and enthusiasts
Current and prospective buyers should consider how the model’s status could affect availability, pricing, and future ownership experiences.
- Availability remains solid for the time being, with continued access to current trims and updates.
- resale values for well-maintained 4Runners tend to stay robust, reflecting steady demand among off-road enthusiasts.
- Any future changes—such as a new generation or a hybrid/EV variant—would likely be announced well in advance, giving buyers time to plan.
In short, there is no official plan to kill the 4Runner. The model continues to serve a dedicated segment of buyers who value traditional, rugged SUVs and off-road capability.
Summary
The Toyota 4Runner is not being retired, based on the latest information. Toyota has not announced discontinuation and continues to sell and update the model, maintaining its niche appeal in a market increasingly dominated by unibody crossovers and electrification. While the industry is evolving, the 4Runner remains part of Toyota’s lineup for now, with future changes depending on sales, strategy, and consumer demand. For enthusiasts and buyers, the key takeaway is to stay tuned for official statements and product announcements, as they will indicate any shift in the model’s long-term status.
