The 4Runner is one of the last body-on-frame crossovers currently on sale in the US. Not that long ago rumors about a new model started to surface. Most of these said that the car was going to be built on a new unibody platform which would reduce its weight and give it better on-road driving characteristics. However, shortly after that most of those rumors have been dispelled. It seems that the future 2018 Toyota 4Runner is, in fact, going to be a body-on-frame crossover, just like its predecessor. While Toyota already showcased the TRD Sport, that was just a special edition of the current model meant to allow the car to go out with a bang.
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So far it looks like most rumors suggest the upcoming 4Runner will be previewed with a concept in the near future. The car will most likely be released at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show where Toyota is not only expected to showcase the 4Runner but also the new Tundra. At this point, it looks like the new model will be based on the same chassis as the new Tacoma. This means a fully boxed in a frame on top of which a steel body will be installed. While this will mean its weight is not going to go down by much, it means the 2018 Toyota 4Runner will get considerably stiffer than before. This should allow it to be better to drive, safer as well as more capable in off-road.
2018 Toyota 4Runner Price
The price has yet to be revealed but considering the latest rumors, it is safe to assume the crossover will start at around $35,000, just like its predecessor. While it may seem like a lot of money when comparing it to its rivals, the 4Runner would be a unique offering as there are no other crossovers like it.
New Toyota 4Runner Design
One of the most intriguing parts of the car has always been the way it looks. Even though it isn’t ugly, the current model made many people love it or hate it. Its striking look with bold design lines and sharp edges made it stand out for sure. Most rumors suggest the upcoming model might follow the same design scheme. In fact, it looks like the new 4Runner could have a lot more in common with Toyota’s cars such as the new Camry. Expect it to boast an even more angular design that will likely make it one of the most desirable cars of its class. The interior is also going to be tremendously improved over its predecessor. Most rumors suggest the 2018 Toyota 4Runner will get a very similar cabin to the Tacoma with a flowing dashboard design and a more minimalist look than before.
Engine
So far the car has been available with a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated V6. While this is powerful enough for most tasks, it isn’t really that efficient. In fact, it uses more fuel than some competing V8 offerings which is simply not acceptable. It seems the upcoming 4Runner might receive a brand new powertrain. While some rumors suggested it would get the 3.5 liter V6 from the Tacoma, some say this may not be the only option. It looks like the crossover may also receive a more powerful engine, possibly Lexus’ new 3.5 liters twin-turbo V6. With up to 400 horsepower and over 400 lb-ft of torque, this would definitely allow the 4Runner to shine. The downside of this engine would be its price. If Toyota will actually offer it then the price of the 4Runner could easily get past $60,000 in which case it wouldn’t really make much sense. In terms of transmission, the car is likely going to receive a new 6-speed automatic which should be both smoother and faster than the old 5-speed gearbox.
