What is the weakness of the 4Runner?
The main weakness of the Toyota 4Runner is that it sacrifices fuel efficiency, on-road comfort, and modern interior tech in favor of rugged off-road capability and proven reliability. While it remains a durable, go-anywhere SUV, several trade-offs have become more noticeable as newer rivals push for greater efficiency and refinement.
Key weaknesses at a glance
Below is a concise look at the areas where the 4Runner often falls short compared with many contemporary mid-size SUVs.
- Fuel economy and efficiency: The 4Runner’s longstanding body-on-frame design and V6 powertrain deliver relatively poor fuel economy compared with many unibody crossovers and turbocharged rivals.
- On-road ride and handling: The truck-based chassis and stiffer suspension tuned for off-road use translate into a firmer, less composed ride on pavement, especially on rough or uneven roads.
- Interior technology and refinement: The cabin materials and infotainment/driver-assistance features lag behind newer rivals, particularly in base trims and earlier model years.
- Cargo space and practicality: While capable off-road, the 4Runner’s cargo area and flexible seating options aren’t class-leading, and some rivals offer more usable space or more versatile layouts.
- Pricing and value proposition: When equipped with similar features, the 4Runner can feel pricier than some competitors that offer more standard driver aids and modern conveniences.
Taken together, these drawbacks mean the 4Runner remains best suited to buyers who prize proven off-road capability and long-term durability over the latest in fuel economy, interior tech, or urbane comfort.
In-depth look
Powertrain, efficiency, and performance
The 4Runner is powered by Toyota’s 4.0-liter V6 paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While this setup is known for reliability and good low-end torque for off-road work, it isn’t as smooth or quick as the turbocharged four-cylinders or V6s found in many modern rivals. Expect relatively modest acceleration for highway merging and limited responsiveness when carrying a full load. Fuel economy sits toward the low end for the segment, a consequence of the old-school, body-on-frame design and weight. For buyers who prioritize expedition-ready capability over efficiency, the trade-off remains appealing; for city driving and long highway miles, it’s a notable drawback.
Ride, handling, and off-road capability
The 4Runner’s body-on-frame architecture gives it excellent off-road prowess, with ground clearance and a durable chassis that shines on rough terrain. On paved roads, however, the ride can feel stiff, and body roll is more noticeable than in many unibody rivals. Steering feel is not as communicative as in newer crossovers, which can affect confidence at higher speeds or in tight urban maneuvers. Buyers who plan serious off-roading will likely accept the trade-offs, while daily drivers who spend more time on city streets may yearn for smoother, quieter behavior and crisper handling.
Interior technology and features
The 4Runner’s interior emphasizes durability and straightforward usability over cutting-edge tech. Depending on the trim, some features—such as the touchscreen interface, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance packages—can feel dated compared with contemporary rivals that offer brighter displays, faster interfaces, and more standard safety tech. Even with updates over the years, the 4Runner generally lags behind in areas like cabin refinement, acoustics, and ambient comfort features. For buyers who want the latest infotainment and driver aids as standard, this is a common sticking point.
Practicality, space, and daily usability
Inside, the 4Runner prioritizes rugged usefulness over interior spaciousness and adaptability. While the cabin is sturdy and easy to clean, some shoppers will find rear-seat space and cargo configurations less flexible than those in many modern midsize SUVs. The truck-based design also means a taller ride height and more steps to entry and exit, which can be a consideration for families or older buyers. If everyday practicality and a roomy, quiet cabin are top priorities, alternatives may offer a smoother experience with better rear-seat room and easier ingress/egress.
Who should still consider a 4Runner?
Shoppers who frequently venture off the beaten path, require proven long-term durability, and value a no-nonsense, workmanlike interior will find the 4Runner compelling despite its weaknesses. It remains a trusted choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and those who need a robust, repair-friendly SUV with strong resale—provided they are comfortable with lower fuel economy, a firmer ride, and older-tech interiors. If your priority is modern infotainment, best-in-class fuel economy, or a smoother on-road ride, consider rivals such as unibody mid-size SUVs that offer more up-to-date technology and efficiency.
Summary
In 2025, the Toyota 4Runner continues to stand out for its durability and off-road credibility, but its core weaknesses—fuel economy, on-road refinement, and aging interior technology—remain important considerations. Buyers should weigh the appeal of rugged capability against the realities of daily driving, interior comfort, and the desire for contemporary features. For the right use case, the 4Runner remains a compelling, long-lasting option; for those seeking a modern daily driver with strong efficiency and cutting-edge tech, alternatives may better fit the brief.
