2026 Toyota 4Runner Review: Rugged Capability and Modern Innovation

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner carries its sixth-generation redesign into a second year, pairing legendary body-on-frame toughness with a modern turbocharged powertrain. Starting at $43,020 TSRP (destination included), the SR5 opens a nine-trim lineup that climbs all the way to the trail-ready TRD Pro and overlanding-focused Trailhunter. Every 4Runner is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, seats five (with an available third row on select trims), and comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver-assistance suite. Whether you want a capable everyday SUV or a purpose-built trail rig, you can explore the full 2026 4Runner lineup at Legacy Toyota of Dallas.

i-FORCE Powertrains and Towing Capability

Two turbocharged 2.4-liter i-FORCE four-cylinder powertrains anchor the 2026 lineup, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The standard i-FORCE produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The available i-FORCE MAX hybrid raises output to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft — standard on the Platinum, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro, and optional on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and Limited.

Rear-wheel drive is standard on the SR5, TRD Sport, and Limited, with four-wheel drive available; 4WD is standard on the off-road grades, and every i-FORCE MAX model is 4WD. No matter the configuration, each 2026 4Runner is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped.

EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.

Maximum towing capacity of 6,000 lbs when properly equipped. Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly, and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner’s Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment.

Trim Lineup and Pricing

The 2026 4Runner spans nine grades, from the value-focused SR5 to the luxury-leaning Limited and Platinum trims and the dedicated off-road TRD Pro and Trailhunter.

Total Suggested Retail Price (TSRP) for new vehicles includes manufacturer and distributor options and delivery, processing, and handling fees, which are subject to change at any time. TSRP excludes taxes, title, license, dealer-installed options, accessories, fees and charges. TSRP is not the dealer advertised price. Dealer price will vary. The dealer sets the final price.

Built for the Trail

The 4Runner’s off-road credentials run deep. Multi-Terrain Select tailors traction for surfaces like mud, dirt, and sand, while CRAWL Control acts as a low-speed off-road cruise control that manages throttle and braking over obstacles. A Multi-Terrain Monitor uses external cameras to show the terrain around the vehicle on the dashboard display.

At the top of the range, both the TRD Pro and Trailhunter add a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism for greater suspension articulation (now available as an option on the TRD Off-Road Premium) and ride on 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires. The Trailhunter is built for overlanding with Old Man Emu shocks and an onboard air compressor, while the TRD Pro features Fox remote-reservoir shocks.

Interior, Seating, and Technology

The 2026 4Runner seats five, with an available third row on the SR5 and Limited that expands capacity to seven. Lower trims feature an 8-inch touchscreen, while a larger 14-inch multimedia touchscreen and a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system become standard from the TRD Sport Premium and up. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are widely available, and upper grades offer Digital Key for smartphone-based vehicle access.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0

Every 2026 4Runner includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard equipment, with active features such as forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert with steering assist, lane-centering, and road-sign recognition. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is also standard, and the Multi-Terrain Monitor adds an extra layer of awareness on the trail.

Value That Holds

The 4Runner’s reputation for durability pays off at trade-in time. The 2026 Toyota 4Runner was named to Kelley Blue Book’s 2026 Best Resale Value Top 10, and Toyota again earned KBB’s Best Resale Value Brand honors — strong evidence the 4Runner retains its value better than most SUVs in its class.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Toyota 4Runner

What is the maximum towing capacity for the 2026 4Runner?

The 2026 4Runner is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped, across both the i-FORCE and i-FORCE MAX powertrains. An available Tow Tech Package adds towing aids such as a trailer brake controller and Trailer Back-Up Guide with Straight Path Assist on eligible trims.

Which version offers the best fuel economy?

The hybrid i-FORCE MAX trims lead the lineup with an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined (23 city / 24 highway). Among the gas i-FORCE models, rear-wheel-drive trims reach up to an EPA-estimated 26 mpg highway.

How many passengers can the 2026 4Runner seat?

All trims seat five as standard. The SR5 and Limited offer an available third-row seat that expands seating to seven.

What is the starting price for the base model?

The SR5 starts at $43,020 TSRP (destination included) and comes standard with rear-wheel drive and the 278-horsepower turbocharged 2.4L i-FORCE engine. To check current 2026 4Runner availability and pricing, call our sales team at 945-207-3254 or visit Legacy Toyota of Dallas.