The 4Runner is Toyota’s go-everywhere crossover which has been around for nearly 8 years at this point. The car is more than likely going to receive a huge redesign with the 2018 Toyota 4Runner but so far they released very little information about it. While this is the case, there are plenty of inside sources saying some very interesting things about it. For starters, the new model won’t be moved to a unibody chassis which is great news for everyone looking to buy one. This means the car will retain its great off-road character which has been its main selling point for years. On top of that, like before, the new 4Runner will definitely share a lot of parts with the Tacoma. This comes with its advantages and drawbacks but more on that later.
2018 Toyota 4Runner Chassis
Thanks to the fact it will share its platform with the Tacoma it means the 4Runner will boast a fully boxed in the frame. This will be made out of high strength steel and aluminum composites, so it will be lighter and considerably more rigid than before. At this point, rumors suggest it will be with up to 40% stiffer and it will also boast a lower center of gravity. The car will still use a fully independent suspension system all around with coil springs at all four corners. This will maintain the comfort of its passengers while not robbing the car from its great off-road capability. The release date is currently unknown and so is its price. Despite that, we would be surprised if the 2018 Toyota 4Runner will cost more than its predecessor.
Design
One of the largest problems with the current model has to be the way it looks. Even though it is definitely aggressive and imposing, the car lacks the character of some of its rivals. The new model is expected to change all of that. Some suggested that this time around the 4Runner will share quite a few design cues with the Tacoma. The large hexagonal front grille might be seen on both of them. However, the 4Runner is expected to receive slimmer headlights and a different bumper. The latter would allow it for a better approach angle which highly important in terms of off-road. The rear of the 4Runner might receive design cues from Toyota’s other SUVs but this is unlikely. Instead, we can expect a development of the current car’s design in which case things could turn out quite interesting.
2018 Toyota 4Runner Price, Release date and Specs
| ENGINE | 4.0 liter V6 |
| TRANSMISSOIN | 6 Speed Automatic |
| PRICE RANGE | $33,000– $42,500 |
| RELEASE DATE | 2018 |
Interior
Thanks to the new platform, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner will benefit from more space inside the cabin. This will not only mean more storage space but it will also mean the passengers will enjoy more head and legroom than before. Some also suggested a 7 seat version might be possible but we highly doubt that. The design here will likely be similar to that of the Tacoma. The SUVs entire dashboard and front seats might be transplanted into the 4Runner with minimal changes. The materials will definitely different between the two. Expect the SUV to boast more durable fabric for the upholstery while the higher end models might receive different types of leather as well. The overall set of features, on the other hand, will be very similar between the two.
Under the Hood of new 2018 4Runner
The ongoing model is powered by a really old 4.0 liter V6 with a good amount of power but incredibly bad fuel efficiency. It seems the upcoming 2018 Toyota 4Runner might make the move to their smaller 3.5 liters naturally aspirated V6. This is a port and direct injected engine which can run in a modified Atkinson cycle. The end result is 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque which is slightly less than its predecessor. However, the engine is known to offer 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. This is quite a bit better than the 17 MPG on average achieved by the older V6. The car will still come with a highly capable four-wheel drive system as standard. The power will be sent to the wheels via a new 6 speed automatic, similar to that on the Tacoma. Even though it will boast better efficiency and it will be lighter, the tow rating is actually expected to decrease due to the engine’s lower torque output.
