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Toyota Introduces the 2026 4Runner with i-FORCE MAX Hybrid and TSS 3.0

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Toyota presents the 2026 4Runner, built on the TNGA-F platform with hybrid powertrains, advanced safety suite TSS 3.0, and off-road-focused Trailhunter and TRD Pro trims.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner arrives as a confident evolution of Toyota’s long-standing off-road icon, built on the TNGA-F platform shared with the Land Cruiser, Tacoma, and Tundra. It preserves the rugged, body-on-frame strength that made the 4Runner famous while introducing new hybrid performance and enhanced safety.

The lineup offers two powertrains: a 2.4-liter i-FORCE turbo engine delivering 278 horsepower and a hybrid i-FORCE MAX system producing 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. According to EPA data, the hybrid achieves about 23–24 mpg on the highway, offering notable efficiency improvements compared with the previous generation.

Toyota 4Runner 2026 / toyota.com

There are nine available grades, from SR5 to the trail-focused Trailhunter and TRD Pro. The Trailhunter is engineered for overlanding with Old Man Emu® suspension, a high-mount air intake, 33-inch Toyo® tires, and an onboard air compressor. The TRD Pro leans into performance with FOX® QS3 adjustable shocks and a TRD exhaust system, delivering precise control on and off the road.

Inside, the focus shifts to connectivity and comfort. Toyota offers an available 14-inch Audio Multimedia display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as JBL Premium Audio featuring the portable JBL FLEX speaker. Owners report that the interface is responsive and clear, though some find the large icons less practical for multi-tasking.

Toyota 4Runner 2026 / toyota.com

Safety is a cornerstone of the 2026 model. Every grade includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, adding upgraded collision avoidance and lane support functions plus sign recognition. The system introduces Proactive Driving Assist, which uses cameras and radar to apply gentle braking and steering when approaching pedestrians or other vehicles.

Towing capacity remains impressive at up to 6,000 pounds. Features like Trailer Back-Up Guide and Blind Spot Monitor now extend their detection to trailers, enhancing confidence for drivers hauling heavy loads.

Toyota 4Runner 2026 / toyota.com

The 2026 4Runner will reach U.S. dealerships in fall 2025 with a starting price of $41,570 plus $1,450 DPH. Production continues in Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan, and there are currently no official plans for European sales. With its blend of heritage strength and modern innovation, the latest 4Runner stands ready to extend Toyota’s legacy of reliability and off-road excellence.

Mark Havelin

2025, Nov 06 22:21

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