2026 Toyota 4Runner i-FORCE MAX

The Toyota 4Runner has long been a go-to for drivers looking for a modern SUV they can drive every day while also getting a healthy dose of off-road capability. Its truck-like body-on-frame construction and myriad rugged trims and features make it one of the most off-road-ready midsize SUVs. Meanwhile, it’s more practical and road-friendly than a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, and can even be had with 3-row seating for up to seven. As for its value proposition, the 4Runner is a KBB Best Resale Value Award recipient and holds its value better than any other new SUV on the market in 2026. This generation of the 4Runner debuted in 2025, and we’ve been impressed by its newfound refinement and technology compared to its aging predecessor.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of midsize SUVs, including the Toyota 4Runner.

The Toyota 4Runner has a starting price slightly higher than that of what’s arguably its closest rival, the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It’s also priced a bit north of the 4-door versions of the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. In Toyota’s own lineup, the 4Runner is a more affordable alternative to the Land Cruiser.

Before buying a 4Runner, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. The Toyota 4Runner has the best resale value of any new SUV, earning our KBB Best Resale Value Award. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

The Toyota 4Runner is an SUV that drives like a truck. Depending on what you’re looking for, that can be good or bad. It’s good if you like the robust, reassuring feel of driving a body-on-frame vehicle that’s built to last. But it’s not so good if you prioritize driving comfort over off-road capability. In our testing, we’ve found the current-generation 4Runner offers a more refined, comfortable driving experience than earlier models. But it’s still a bit more rough-and-tumble than a more car-like SUV, say the Toyota Grand Highlander, which is priced similarly to the 4Runner and has a much roomier interior and smoother ride, but lacks off-road prowess.

Engine options are the same as what you can get in the mechanically similar Toyota Tacoma. The base mill is a turbo 4-cylinder that’s adequate for daily on-road driving and occasional off-road adventures. A little more guts and a little better fuel economy would be nice, but this engine makes the most sense for the most people. The hybrid i-FORCE MAX setup improves both performance and efficiency, making it easy to recommend, but its cost of entry is about $10k higher than the non-hybrid model’s.

Powertrain

When we climb inside the Toyota 4Runner, it’s a stark reminder that this is essentially an SUV version of the Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup. That is to say, its cabin is both thoroughly rugged and thoroughly modern. Straight lines and sharp angles speak the same design language as the muscular exterior, and the TRD models aren’t shy about brandishing “TRD” branding everywhere. The seats are supportive and nicely padded, which is beneficial on-road and off. We found the back seats comfortable enough for adults on long trips. However, the optional third row of seats is for just-in-case use only, with only 31.8 inches of legroom. Thankfully, opting for the third row doesn’t significantly impact cargo space when those way-back seats are folded down.

Speaking of cargo space, the 4Runner has more cargo room than most of its off-road-inclined competitors. With up to 48.4 cubic feet of space behind the back seats, it can store more stuff than the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Land Cruiser, and 4-door versions of the Wrangler and Bronco. This big cargo space goes a long way in bolstering the 4Runner’s credentials as an adventurous family vehicle.

The infotainment tech in the 4Runner is as good as any other modern Toyota. An 8-inch central display is standard, and all but the base trim come with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. For drivers who want a more modern, high-tech feel in their tough SUV, a much bigger 14-inch infotainment display is optional. The expected tech features are present and accounted for, like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (even with the smaller screen) and USB-C ports to keep your devices topped off, whether you’re on the commute or on the trails. One of our favorite tech options borrowed from the Tacoma is a JBL premium audio system with a Bluetooth speaker that can pop out of the dash.

Power rear window
We know how important this is to Toyota 4Runner enthusiasts. Yes, the 4Runner still has a power rear window that slides down into the liftgate. This adds versatility for hauling long items, such as surfboards.

3-row seating
The available third row of seats isn’t especially roomy, but the fact that the 4Runner can seat up to seven people makes it one of the more versatile off-road SUVs on the market. Whether you’re putting kids back there or bringing a couple extra friends along for the ride, those extra seats can come in handy.

Off-road trims
Multiple TRD Off-Road models, an adventurous Trailhunter trim, and a TRD Pro model that maximizes off-road performance and style ensure there’s a Toyota 4Runner for off-road enthusiasts with any taste and budget.