When it comes to SUVs, there’s an automotive icon that’s been chugging through rugged terrains and suburban jungles alike for four glorious decades – the Toyota 4Runner. To celebrate this remarkable milestone, Toyota has unveiled the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition, a true tribute to its impressive heritage. As an automotive journalist, it’s my pleasure to take you on a journey through this special edition 4Runner. Toyota introduces this special edition based on the entry-level SR5 model that’s limited to a production run of 4040 examples.
The 2023 4Runner retains its characteristic brick-like silhouette, that seems due for refinement at some point. Some call it boxy; I call it borderline retro at this point. It’s like that dad joke that’s been around forever.
The 40th Anniversary Edition wears a fetching homage stripe and decal that screams, “I’m celebrating, but I’m not overdoing it.” It’s like Toyota is saying, “We know we’re classic, but we can still be hip.” The stripe adds a touch of nostalgia without taking away from the 4Runner’s ruggedness.
Step inside, and it’s like stepping into a time capsule—and that’s because it’s cabin could have come from the latter years of the last millennium. Not much has changed from the previous segments, while it could be argued that its loyal customers tend to enjoy-just not me. The 4Runner still rocks physical buttons for the climate control, because sometimes, you just want to feel the button you’re pressing. It’s the automotive equivalent of popping bubble wrap.
The 40th Anniversary Edition comes equipped with black leather seats and red stitching with the 40th-edition badges. It’s comfortable enough to make you forget about the bears outside, but not so fancy that you’d feel guilty getting mud on the floor mats.
While some automakers are racing toward full autonomy, Toyota sticks to its roots. The infotainment system doesn’t need a degree in astrophysics to operate. It’s intuitive, like finding your way home with breadcrumbs, not a GPS with an attitude.
Of course, there’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, because even the most rugged adventurer needs their Spotify playlist. But the 4Runner doesn’t overdo it with a giant touchscreen; it knows that a 6.5-inch screen is just the right size for a rugged vehicle. Anything bigger, and you’d be tempted to Netflix and chill in the middle of the wilderness.
Under the hood, it’s a tale as old as time (or at least as old as the 4Runner). You’ll find the trusty 4.0-liter V6 engine that’s been around since…well, since forever. But that’s not a bad thing. It’s like your grandma’s secret recipe that never gets old. It churns out 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to make this SUV a fun companion both on and off the road.
You can’t really fault the 4Runner for sticking with the past; it’s what it does best. However, if you’re looking for hybrid powertrains and electrification, you’ll need to wait a bit longer, or perhaps consider a different Toyota model.
Now, let’s get down to business—the 4Runner’s off-roading chops. This SUV can tackle trails like a seasoned hiker, and the 40th Anniversary Edition adds some extra flare. With part-time four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, and Toyota’s Crawl Control feature, you can confidently traverse rough terrain like a pro. It’s like having a 40-year-old friend who’s still in great shape and shows you all the best trails.
As for the pricing, Toyota has kept things reasonable, considering the added nostalgia and unique features of the 40th Anniversary Edition. You’ll have to part with a bit more cash than a standard 4Runner, but for fans of this iconic SUV, it’s a small price to pay for a slice of history.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition is a delightful blend of nostalgia and modernity. It’s like finding your favorite childhood toy in the attic, but it’s been polished and updated for the present. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the 4Runner, a vehicle that’s managed to stay relevant and beloved for 40 years. So, if you’re in the market for an SUV with a dash of history and a whole lot of off-road prowess, the 4Runner’s 40th Anniversary Edition might just be your ticket to adventure. Happy birthday, old buddy! Here’s to another 40 years of epic journeys -but, a refined look somewhere before then.
2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition:
Price (CAD): Starting at $54,999
Powertrain:
- Engine: 4.0-liter V6
- Horsepower: 270 hp
- Torque: 278 lb-ft
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Fuel Economy (City/Highway):
- 13.8 L/100 km city
- 11.1 L/100 km highway
Dimensions (Meters):
- Length: 4.88 meters
- Width: 1.92 meters
- Height: 1.87 meters
- Wheelbase: 2.79 meters
- Ground Clearance: 0.24 meters
Off-Roading Features:
- Part-time four-wheel drive
- Locking rear differential
- Crawl Control feature
- Multi-Terrain Select system
Interior Features:
- Black leather seats with red stitching
- 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Climate control with tactile physical buttons
Exterior Features:
- 40th Anniversary Edition homage stripe and decal
- Iconic boxy silhouette
- Roof rails for added utility
Safety Features:
- Toyota Safety Sense P suite
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Pre-collision system