5.0/5 based on 14 reviews
2026 Toyota 4Runner — what’s new, key specs (including powertrains, MPG, towing), what’s good, and what to watch.
✅ What’s new / key highlights
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The 2026 4Runner continues the sixth-generation design introduced for 2025, so changes are modest.
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It offers two main powertrains:
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A 2.4-liter turbocharged i-FORCE four-cylinder engine, producing up to ~278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque.
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An optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain (on select trims) producing ~326 hp and ~465 lb-ft torque.
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The hybrid i-FORCE MAX comes standard on high-end trims (TRD Pro, Trailhunter, Platinum), optional on others.
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Towing capacity is up to 6,000 lbs when properly equipped.
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Technology and comfort upgrades: available large 14-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on hybrid models, advanced off-road systems (e.g., Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control) etc.
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Standard safety suite: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 across all trims.
📊 Key specs at a glance
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.4 L turbo i-FORCE (278 hp / 317 lb-ft) i-FORCE MAX hybrid (326 hp / 465 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrains | RWD standard on base trims, 4WD (part-time or full-time) available/standard depending on trim and powertrain. |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 6,000 lbs. |
| Fuel Economy / City-Highway Estimates | - With base 2.4 L turbo (RWD): approx 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway. - With base 2.4 L turbo (4WD): approx 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway. - With hybrid i-FORCE MAX (4WD): approx 23 mpg city / 24 mpg highway. |
| Starting MSRP | Starting around US$41,570, plus destination. |
👍 What’s good
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Quite strong power & capability, especially the hybrid variant with high torque and off-road readiness.
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Retains rugged body-on-frame architecture (TNGA-F platform) which is ideal for off-road and heavy-duty use.
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Very competitive for those who want a serious off-road SUV with modern tech.
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Good towing capacity for its class (6,000 lbs) is a major plus for hauling.
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Wide selection of trims means you can pick something modest or extremely capable.
👀 Things to watch / potential drawbacks
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Fuel economy is relatively low, especially compared to crossovers and soft-road SUVs. If your driving is mostly highway commuting, the low mpg may matter.
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Because the 4Runner is built for capability more than efficiency or ultra-luxury, ride comfort or refinement may lag some non-body-on-frame rivals.
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Higher trims (especially with the hybrid and full off-road equipment) will be expensive — budget accordingly.
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As always with advanced off-road equipment, maintenance/long-term durability for some of the specialized components may be something to consider (shocks, 4WD systems, etc.).
🎯 Should you consider it?
If your priorities include off-road capability, towing, ruggedness, and a vehicle built for exploration/adventure, the 2026 4Runner is a very strong pick. If instead your driving is mostly highway, you prioritize maximum fuel economy or ultra-refined luxury, you might want to compare with more comfort-oriented SUVs or crossovers.
If you like, I can pull a full trim-by-trim breakdown (SR5, TRD Off-Road, Trailhunter, etc) for the 2026 4Runner, and compare it with key competitors (e.g., Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, Land Cruiser) — would you like me to do that?
