Toyota
Toyota's mid-size SUV. Body-on-frame construction (rare in modern crossovers). TRD Pro variant for off-road. Toyota reliability for serious overland use.
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV in continuous production since 1984 across five generations. The 4Runner uses body-on-frame construction (unusual in the modern crossover-dominated mid-size SUV market), providing serious off-road durability and tow capacity. The 4Runner has built one of the strongest reliability reputations in any segment. The 4Runner generations: First (1984-1989), Second (1990-1995), Third (1996-2002), Fourth (2003-2009), and Fifth (2010-2024). The fifth generation had an unusually long production run (15 years), reflecting the conservative engineering approach and dedicated owner community. The new sixth generation 4Runner launched 2024+ with refreshed styling. The TRD Pro variant of the 4Runner is the off-road focused trim. Standard with Fox shocks, BBS wheels, all-terrain tires, and TRD-specific styling. The TRD Pro 4Runner competes with the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Ford Bronco in the dedicated off-road SUV segment. On WhipJury, 4Runner submissions are particularly active among overland and off-road enthusiasts. Lifted 4Runners with aftermarket modifications (lift kits, larger tires, recovery gear, roof tents) are common. The body-on-frame construction supports serious off-road builds.
First (1984-1989). Original 4Runner. Compact SUV.
Second (1990-1995). Refined first-generation.
Third (1996-2002). Larger and more refined.
Fourth (2003-2009). Modernized, V6 and V8 options.
Fifth (2010-2024). Long production run. TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road variants.
Sixth (2024+). Current generation. Refreshed styling.
4Runner submissions are particularly active among overland enthusiasts. Lifted 4Runners with off-road modifications reliably do well. The TRD Pro variant has a strong following.