The 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Is Ancient and Insanely Popular 

The fact that this thing is missing so many features, uses an old engine, has had only minor cosmetic changes in the last 13 years, but still increases in cost year over year is INSANE. All the tooling and R&D is paid for now. This thing must PRINT money for Toyota.

I was a mechanic from 2008 to 2017, and the 4 runner has basically been the same vehicle since 2005. The Toyota 4.0L V6 power train is one of the most prolific platforms of all time, being utilized in the older Tundra, FJ Cruiser, Tacoma 05-15, and 4Runner 05-Current. In all those years as an auto mechanic, I have seen precisely ONE of these engines out of the chassis. It had over 200k miles on it when the water pump failed and the owner overheated it so badly that the engine seized. We repaired the cooling system, put new plugs in it, and the owner drove it for another 20k before the head gaskets failed. I bought the truck for 1000$ off of the guy, and when I pulled the engine apart, there were no cracks in the heads or cylinders, no warpage of the block, no leak down on the bench. Got new gaskets and repolished the valves/seats, and I’ve been driving it for 4 years. Truck is about to turn 20 years old and it drives better than my GF’s 6 year old Kia with 100k on it. Anyone that doesn’t “get” the 4Runner popularity just simply doesn’t know. If I were to replace mine with anything, it would just be a new one.

The prices for these things are nuts but it just shows a LOT of people don’t want all the high tech crap that often is extremely to expensive to repair and replace. And the engine is extremely reliable.

The 4Runner truly is a special vehicle and there’s a reason they cost so much. They are simple and just refuse to die. Mine is coming up on 16 years old with 437k on the odometer and all I’ve ever needed to do was regular maintenance and a spark plug change. Not surprised Toyota keeps setting records with it.

Not many vehicles get reviewed twice by Doug. Goes to show how special the 4runner is.

This just shows how important, “I just want a damn reliable vehicle” still is to a lot of people

I’ve had my 4Runner TRD Off Road Premium for exactly 1 year and honestly all the “issues” you point out are the reasons why it’s so good. There’s so little that can actually stop working which makes it so good.

My 2012 4Runner has 205k miles on it now, and I still drive it daily. It made me smile every time Doug pointed out one of the crappy features, because all of those features still work like the vehicle is new. The simplicity is the whole point, and I'm yet to see any individual part on mine fail. Hell, the back window still goes down despite a construction worker smashing into my rear hatch. Window still works 😅

I have a 2010; the first year of this generation. I love it, and it’s hard to explain why, but you did a pretty good job. It’s insanely capable, bulletproof reliable, and not trying too hard. This vehicle is a great example of how many car reviewers focus on the widgets and the numbers while missing the less quantifiable things so many actual car buyers love. I am impressed to see that you get it, and can explain it. You’re pretty good at this, Doug. Have you ever considered reviewing cars for a living?

19:25 -- That "sad tailgate face" has got to be one of Doug's best all-time performances.

I think a lot of things are better integrated, utilized, and more reliable when they are analog. Not everything is better when made digital, and I feel like all manufacturers are having trouble finding the right balance. Some of those old school things haven't changed, because they didn't need to. A great example: Physical buttons for your AC, knobs for volume ect.

Just bought a new 2023 4Runner, and after driving it 6k miles, it has no problems an 8-speed can't fix. Much smoother and quieter than you would think, based on the reviews it gets. Drove it cross-country. Car & Driver literally said out of 24 mid-sized SUVs, they ranked the 4Runner dead last! (They ranked the Wrangler 11th, so....). And I'm getting 18-19 MPG. A GREAT truck, for under $50k.

Toyota really has done a hell of a job with their reputation. They are synonymous with reliability. Japanese cars in general kind of are, but they are the first name that pops in to most people's minds.

I love my 4Runner. It doesn't get the best MPG by any means, the powertrain is ancient, it doesn't have all of the new tech available today, but it'll go almost anywhere and will run until the wheels fall off.

I’ve owned 2 4Runners, 2002 Sport Ed. and 2015 SR5. My son is still driving the 02 and, unfortunately, the 15 was totaled. My 2 favorite cars I’ve ever owned (and I’ve had a lot of them). The Toyota engines in these are almost bulletproof and one of their best features is the old school engine, transmission, and build quality (there still made ONLY in Japan). I now have a ‘21 Tacoma and the thing I miss the most from the 4Runner is the engine and transmission.

I have that exact model and color, and I love it. It's simple, and it can go anywhere. And it does have remote start, you just have to know how to use the key fob. The tranny is throttled on purpose, using only 60 is percent. The pedal commander is a plug in throttle bypass that makes the engine way more responsive, highly recommend.

Toyota for the most part understands their customer base for these vehicles, which is why they don't change too many things. They've learned how to leave "well enough" alone.

I feel like I lucked out buying my 2020 TRD Off Road Premium for $4k under sticker in May 2020 right before prices exploded. I could probably get more than I paid for it.

I just bought about a week ago the 2023 4Runner TRD pro with the Solar Octane color and I just love it. Drives like my 2015 Tacoma that I traded in. I can see why folks love the 4Runner and now I do.

I have an '18 SR5 and I love it so much. It looks so beefy and masculine. I especially love that it is so minimalistic. I use it off road ALOT and and less is more in the wilds! I love that it works every crank and is more reliable than any other off road SUV!

I don't mind working on these when they come into the shop for a service. Easy to work on, harder for some trd models cuz you gotta deal with all the skidplates for oil changes, but it's not an issue. Love that truck

No changes over the years, means less year specific spare parts to manufacture and store.

I grew up with a ‘98 4Runner as the family car. Several cars have occupied the other spot in the garage but I think my parents plan to keep maintaining and driving the 4Runner for as long as they can drive. I have no doubt that that truck will make it well beyond 500k miles. Needless to say, it has had a big impact on what I like in a vehicle.

This made me go hug my Xterra. 4.0 V6, 5 speed auto, bare bones features, paid $24k brand new in 2012. Zero issues with reliability. I totally get why people love these kinds of vehicles, it's completely not special on the spec sheet, but there's just something special about them. You can pry my Xterra from my cold, dead hands.

This thing is ancient, and I love newer tech in vehicles, but I wish all vehicles still had a mechanical shifter.

I own this exact SUV. Agree it could use a few more gears. Exhaust gets old quick on long road trips. One correction is it does have remote start. Just doesn’t have a dedicated button on the remote for it. Definitely not for everyone! It’s bulletproof, will take you almost anywhere and looks awesome Nice review 👍

I bought a 2021 TRD Off Road for the exact reasons you mentioned. It is old school, engine transmission and everything is tried and true, highly dependable, build for long term trouble free and no major problems. This is the car that Scotty Kilmer spoke so highly of and everything he said about the 4 runner is true. Toyota could sell this car unchanged for another 13 years and people will buy it.

My 2016 TRD pro is bulletproof. 93k miles and going strong. See y'all at 300k

This has to be one of the best reviews Doug has done.... He literally just roast the vehicle for 25min then laughably explains that consumers are somehow in love with the 4runner. Putting my money on it they will do a new design for 2024 Toyota just redesigned the Sequoia and the Tundra (least popular), up next will be the Tacoma and the 4runner (their more popular models).

4Runner does offer ventilated seats in the Limited! Also remote start is on the pro and Limited- hit the lock button 3 times hold on the 3rd (or in app)

I think Doug hit the nail right on the head. Part of why I love my 2016 (first vehicle I ever bought brand new) was because it’s a familiar feel to what I was used to. Some of these newer vehicles are great and have cool gizmos, but I like not having to look at the temperature dial to change it, or the fan speed dial and such. I like just knowing where the buttons and knobs are without having to use a touch screen to change settings. Much like touch screen phones, you have to be pretty deliberate in your input with most modern vehicles, and bumpy roads can be infuriating with that. When you’ve got large buttons and knobs, bring on the bumps. You can still keep your eyes on the road and find what you need

The thing that makes the 4Runner popular is it stays true to its roots. A body-on-frame, mid-sized truck-based SUV with 4x4, and it’s customization diversity. Something that other competitors don’t offer (well besides of course the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco). Meanwhile the Explorer, Pathfinder, Passport, and Blazer all went soccer moms on us

My FJ is as basic as it gets and I love it! Being 6’4” the headroom is much better than the 4Runner. Both are just awesome cars!

I have a 4th gen, this being the 5th. Over a quarter of a million miles. Starts like a gem, no matter what. People are obsessed with this car. Doug coming in HOT with the commentary tho 😂

Thanks for the review Doug! The simplicity is why we love the 4runner

Funny thing about the price… if it’s bullet proof and I know that things going to be running strong for 2 decades.. then it’s really not that bad.

It's nice to see Toyota produce a car that is iconic to them. In the past, these cars were industructible, while many brands produce luxury "off-road" cars, such as the Defender, Toyota is one of the brands that continues to know how to make cars like these, pure and tough.

Not just the states. Even though it's officially still on sale, Toyota has cancelled all orders for the 79 Series LandCruiser in Australia. Australia is one of the world's biggest LandCruiser markets. People are paying $120,000 2nd hand for a 79 that you could have new for $85,000. That's with 60,000km probably towing a 3 ton trailer and 2 years old.

All your negatives are EXACTLY why people want this vehicle. No computers, no electronics, none of those expensive and hard to diagnose things to repair/replace.

I love this vehicle. I think it’s one of the best looking SUV’s. Especially in person. There is something nice about a car without all the gizmo’s and gadgets. I rather have a simpler vehicle (less things to break) and a have the vehicle be able last a long time… which this vehicle does. I’ll pay an extra few bucks so it’s not constantly in the shop and the engine runs for 250k plus miles reliably.

In addition to the points Doug mentioned, I'd also point out that the off-road market in general seems resistant to change. Consider how long the original Ford Bronco, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Jeep CJ were around without substantial updates.

I drove one in WA in the mountains, was fantastic! The back window is literally amazing, as simple as it is, it makes such a big difference.

I ordered a 2022 manual Tacoma for the simple fact that there is basically no gadgets and gizmo's in the thing and I know it's going to outlive me. I loved it's simplicity

Absolutely excellent point at 24:57 about car reviewers' mentality. Reviewers tend to be pretty interested in car technology and performance, which is understandable if you're really interested in car design. But there is a big disconnect with what the average consumer values. For most people, a car is a tool and the main concerns are reliability and functionality.

As a 4runner owner, I just wanted to add that it does have some of the features that Doug says are missing. For example, cooled seats and parking sensors are options on the limited, also most models have remote start if you press the lock twice and hold it down a third time on the key fob, and it doesn't have a power tail gate but the rear windshield can be operated with the key fob by holding lock/unlock buttons. Also the v6 engine did technically come out in the early 2000s but it was overhauled in 2010 with dual VVT that adds about 40 hp.

My bros dad had one in the 1990s and he drove that thing for like 20 years with hardly a problem.

As much as I love technology and do to and extent desire them in my car, one of the reasons I love the 4runner and the lexus GX is simple feature don't break as much as complex features. The cars just work, and when they break you're not paying 1000s to replace something stupid. I compare it to say the BMW x5. Great engines and features, but the drive and electronics break all the darn time

I’m honestly not surprised it’s still extremely popular despite its age. It looks good, ride quality is fantastic, the tech you do get is purpose built and not gimmicky with some modern features sprinkled in and the powertrain came out before electricity so it’s time tested. It’s one of the last true old school SUVs without all the aids and electronic nanny’s. It will be timeless for years to come!

My first car was a 98 4Runner, still the best car I owned after my current 17 Camry. I love the current Gens and took one on a trip across country with my family. One of the best cars ever built period. I hope Toyota doesn’t change it too much on the redesign.

TRD Off Road is the trim to get. I paid $40,500 in early 2021. After upgrading several components I'd say my 4Runner is now cooler and more capable than the Pro. 🥰

Best 4runner review ever! I have this exact model (color and all!) I agree with every word this guy says. He had me giggling in so many spots. When I hit the gas pedal and the exhaust is super loud and rumbly....and I'm going nowhere fast🤣 The backup camera...it is so bad I took it back to Toyota thinking something was wrong. They agreed, replaced it and then figured out out nope its just a crappy camera. The tailgate is soooo heavy and I'm short. All that being said I love my 4runner and suspect I'll never get rid of it!

That it is Doug.

I went hiking last weekend and had to park my Subaru about a mile from the trailhead because the road got too rocky. From that point on, half of the cars that I saw were 4Runners, all with some sort of customization, and every single one of them looked good. People don't buy 4Runners for touchscreens and safety features - they buy them because they enjoy having their own unique adventure vehicle.

I loved my original 2015 Inferno 4Runner TRD PRO but finally had to let it go at 97K miles. Still got $34K back for it. :)

When I bought mine I just saw it in the lot and liked the look. After test driving it I realized that’s it’s comfortable and nimble fur a large suv. XReas suspension is very good. Love the ride height, squares, visibility and the huge trunk. This vehicle is a bargain if you want large boxy, tall truck based suv that’s super reliable.

I had a 2006 4runner and got it up to 200k miles and finally upgraded to a 5th gen! Gonna keep this thing forever

For the record, it does have remote start. It’s not great, but it has it through the key. You can also start it with the app.

This is probably the reason why my best friend continues to lease new ones of these. He's on his 5th one in the last 12 years or so and he LOVES that nothing changes lol.

I think making only subtle changes to the body of the 4runner has appeal to used buyers and helped inflate this market. You can find a cherry 2011 and it looks like a 2017 from the curb. Also at 2-300k miles, the 4runners missing features ie: non-powergate rear and manual shifting linkage etc.. become features instead of failure points.

It's ancient and that's why people are buying it. It's simple, it's fun and it's easy to tinker with. No new car in its class can rival it

Doug you make me like my 4runner way more every time you review it!!

Good review..you get it! I initially did not get it lol. I bought my wife a limited this year. Didn’t get to test drive one, and had to wait 6 months for it to arrive from Japan. My wife instantly loved the thing.. My first impression when we took delivery was anti climatic. I paid how much..for this. But after a few drives around town I quickly understood why so many ppl love these things. You did a good job of explaining that.. hopefully Toyota can keep this feeling with the new one. I have a 2022 tundra limited, but kept my 2017 sr5 tundra as well. I just like the old school simplicity.

12 years old. my dad daily drives a 2008 4runner and its been as durable and reliable as can be. I learned to drive on it and helped with the driving in the road trips we took. has tons of space for everything plus room for our dog

We have a 2018. Best vehicle I’ve ever owned. I can also fix/repair everything on it in my garage. Can’t say that for most modern vehicles. Super reliable and just great to drive.

Rugged, highly customizable and insane reliability are the reason it could sell for another 10 years without changes

A year ago I bought a used 2014 4WD T4R SR5. I spent about $2k extra to change shocks, coils, and upper control arms. That added about 2 extra inches of lift. I took it offroad on some medium-level trails in Virginia. The truck went through it flawlessly. Not one single issue. I still don't understand why ppl would spend that much money on the TRD PRO. It won't do anything that an SR5 won't. And you can get these with low miles for less than half of the value of a brand new.

My family has a 2012 Toyota 4Runner Limited (Mom's never gonna go off-road) and the fact that they still haven't refreshed the model after this long is astounding.

As a Firefighter, IMO this is one of the safest vehicles I've ever come across. I've worked several wrecks that the 4runner fared MUCH better than the opposing vehicle. The worst of which was a 55mph offset head-on; Toyota had 5 passengers, including infant in rear-facing seat and all of them walked away without a scratch. The other driver got a helicopter ride.

Finally this is what I've been waiting for, the 2022 4runner review by non other than Doug himself!

Just bought a 2023 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium because........... it will never let me down. 5 years of payments plus another 20+ of enjoyment.

Thanks for boosting the resale value even more bro! 😃

Ig it's a "if it isn't broke don't fix it" type of situation.

one quirk i’m surprised doug hasn’t mentioned is how loud that 4.0L is on start up. things sound like a whole ass jet

Great review! Cannot wait for the redesign and interior upgrades.

The biggest quirk you forgot to mentions is that Toyota still puts the old two button digital clock in these modern vehicles. I remember that same clock in my 87 carolla hatchback. Kinda nostalgic but also cheap.

Here’s why they still sell. Bomb proof engine, trans, driveline. Unstoppable reliability. When you are 250 miles out in the middle of no where Toyota 4Runners and Landcrusiers are great peace of mind!

I got so lucky getting my 2020 TRD Off Road Premium below sticker before the prices went bananas. I actually prefer the ORP because you can easily modify it to be much better than a TRD Pro for less than the Pro is off the lot. I also love my 4Runner and wouldn’t trade it for anything.

I bought a 2010 Jeep Commander limited in 2010. It has a 2" OME lift with 265/70's now. I recently started looking for a replacement after some jerk side swiped it. I was looking at a 4runner but can't justify any of it. 13 years newer than my commander and it has the same/ arguably less capability off-road less options and the v6 gets less mpg than a 5.7 hemi on the highway. Thank you for the video Doug I appreciate that your delivery doesn't have any bloat and they are worth paying attention to from start to finish.

Simple solution for the price problems are to buy a lower trim. They’re basically the same and the cost makes a lot more sense for what you’re getting. He also missed the coolest part about of the back seat which is that they recline! Maybe this is common in other cars but it blew my mind

That Toyota 4.0L six banger is BULLETPROOF. Same engine in my 2019 4Runner and my 2010 Tacoma. F the haters.

Honestly if I have to overpay for a vehicle these days (and they're all overpriced) I'd rather spend my money on this thing. This truck just works. It's like the Voyager I and II spacecraft that were launched in the 1970's but are still going strong.

The 4runner sells because people are prepping.

The 1GR-FE engine is surprisingly smooth and quiet at high RPMs. I got one as a rental in Wyoming an it was awesome.

I love my 2016 TRDPro 4R. You are correct. Less is more. It's one of the reasons we love them. Purpose built and crazy capable, along with reliability. Fuel economy is poor but it's a japanese lunchbox. Small price to pay for a body on frame SUV.

I’m on my second 4Runner. The limited has work well for me. Never breakdown, no recall list, 400k miles and motor runs better than a new bronco. Nobody buy this car for tech. Is built for those who doesn’t have time to be at a mechanic shop & for those who enjoy off road with out worrying is going to break down.

As much as I wish it had more tech, this is probably one of the best vehicles for camping or going off the grid into the wilderness. Jeep, G-wagon, Land Rover, etc. may be cooler, but nothing beats this ancient 4Runner in reliability. The last thing you want is for your vehicle to break down in the middle of nowhere. And this is quite "affordable" compared to those. BUT for the average buyers who only take these SUVs to their local Whole Foods, there are certainly better vehicles lol

Thanks for the video, I own a 2019 Toyota 4RUNNER Trd off road premium it is my second 4 runner and i have never had any problems.

I bought the 23 TRD Off Road and I love it so far. Has everything I need, and provides me with all of the storage space I could ask for. Hopefully it’s the last new car I buy.

One other great thing about the hatch is that they hide the wiper in the back spoiler. Such a clean look.

"ancient" isn't an insult. It's a HUGE PLUS in this ESG world

I think it's time more auto makers start listening and understand not everyone wants a tiny little turbo charged engine in a throw away piece of junk, car truck or SUV. I've loved 4Runners for years and years, and finally had the good fortune to be able to purchase a 2022 in January. I bought it specifically because it hasn't changed, and is just solid reliable tough transportation. It is vault quiet, built like a Sherman tank, rides great, and requires very little maintenance fuss. One of the last few soliders left that is true to its roots. When you drive it, it feels like you are driving something substantial.

I have a 2017 trd pro that I bought new with 12 miles on it. It now has over 140k and other than routine maintenance and 2 door lock actuators I’ve had no issues. The 4runner is a perfect vehicle.

20 years and still same design that show you the level of quality 👌🏻

Thanks Doug for the best review of the 4Runner. I'm an owner of a 2007 4Runner SR5 4.7L V8 2WD 125K miles. The most low tech vehicle and looks and runs like new. Why can't other builders learn the "Kaizan Theory" from Toyota!

I have a 4runner. Thought about selling it for something newer with more gimmicks. But Doug has made me love my 4runner again and confirms why I bought it in the first place. Thank you

Have a ‘15 pro. Love it, still drive it daily and play out in the mountains here in CO. Simple, reliable, just works.

That’s the reason why 4Runners stay popular even after more than a decade on the market. Simplicity and reliable. No high tech sensors needed for good ol off roading

Love my '22 ORP with KDSS! It really gets the roll under control and handles exceptionally for how big it is.

The popularity of these older vehicle designs says a lot about how the market thinks of a lot of the newer options out there.

The reason it’s so simple is so it doesn’t break. Less technologies leads to less problems generally. We’ve had one for three years had no problems with it and Is very livable.