2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner marks another year for this long-running, highly dependable and flexible SUV. It was introduced to the market in 1984, which makes the model almost 40 years old. Toyota has kept the 4Runner current while building its legacy as a model that can take a beating and keep running for a long time. When you're ready to buy a new 4Runner, or any Toyota for that matter, come to Keith Pierson Toyota to check out what's available. In the meantime, here's a look at what the 2021 4Runner has to offer.

The 2021 4Runner: A Veteran SUV That's Kept Current

Image via Pixabay by joshuavanhierden 

Toyota's introduction of the 4Runner in 1984 represented an entry into the SUV market in an era where SUVs weren't much different from pickup trucks. The 4Runner was a departure from the rough-riding four-wheel-drive vehicles that weren't comfortable, handled poorly, and had spartan interiors. The 4Runner offered the desired qualities of an SUV, was smaller and easier to handle, and had four-wheel drive, a powerful engine, and a nicely appointed interior. Toyota has kept updating the 4Runner through the years, but there's not a lot of change from 2020 to 2021.

For 2021, the body retains its boxy, upright shape and gets a little more lighting in the form of LED low-beam headlights and fog lamps, but not much else has changed. The real changes come in the form of the new Trail special edition models that make the innate capabilities of this on- and off-road vehicle stand out. But don't count out the base model and available trim levels for the 2021 4Runner. Those who like to get away from it all will find that the 4Runner makes it almost too easy to escape from civilization with its beefy build quality.

Interior and Technological Details of the 2021 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota has equipped the 4Runner with multiple features that make the car comfortable to drive while keeping you connected to the world around you. The entry-level SR5 trim level includes creature comforts such as:

• Standard air conditioning.
  

• Backup camera with projected path.

• Fabric-trimmed seats with power-adjustable settings for the driver and passenger.

• Center console storage.

• Overhead console.

• Optitron instrument panel with digital and analog displays.

• Leather-trimmed tilt and telescopic steering wheel with audio and phone controls.

• 12V DC Auxiliary power outlets.

• First aid kit.

• 8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility.

• USB ports in front and rear.

The 2021 4Runner offers plenty of storage and holding convenience with 10 cup and bottle holders throughout the interior, an available sliding rear cargo deck with under-floor storage compartment, and a glove box for all of your overflow needs.

A Look at What's Under the Hood and the Drivetrain

All trim levels of the 2021 Toyota 4Runner feature the same engine: a 4.0L V-6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission. Toyota has been offering this engine for some years, and some may feel it's outdated. However, the engine gets decent gas mileage for its size, reaching 16 mpg in cities, 19 mpg on highways, and 17 mpg combined. Toyota is sticking with an older engine design for the 4Runner because of its proven performance and power to overcome obstacles on and off the road.

The drivetrain features a locking rear differential with electronic control to help you maneuver the vehicle on uneven terrain. This is complemented by an available Crawl Control option that automatically modulates the throttle and brakes when the car is in a low-speed setting, enabling you to focus on the road ahead. All trim levels feature active traction control and a part-time four-wheel-drive system. Downhill assist control is available on some trim levels.

Safety Features of the 2021 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota left nothing out when loading the 2021 4Runner with safety features. The eight standard air bags include driver and front passenger TAP (thorax, abdomen, pelvis) protection, knee air bags for the driver and front passenger, and all-row air bags for passengers in the rear. Roll-sensing side curtain air bags deploy in the event that the 4runner is in a rollover accident.

The 4Runner is equipped with Toyota's Safety Sense P (TSS-P) safety monitoring system. The vehicle alerts the driver to obstacles, pedestrians, and other vehicles through a pre-collision system, a lane departure alert, a dynamic radar cruise control that maintains a distance between you and the car in front of you, and automatic high beams that turn on or off depending on oncoming traffic.

Trim and Package Options for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota has seen fit to provide the 2021 4Runner with plenty of trim options and special edition packages that let you buy the 4Runner of your dreams. The SR5 is the base model, but it's loaded with features that make it feel like much more than an entry-level option. Looking for something different? The special editions add extra flavor that make them more than just the average 4Runner.

• SR5.

• SR5 Premium.

• TRD Off-Road.

• TRD Off-Road Premium.

• Limited.

• Trail Special Edition.

• Nightshade Special Edition.

• Venture Special Edition.

Those who like to spend a lot of time exploring the back roads, swamps, and forests in and around Jacksonville are going to like what the Trail Special Edition has to offer. The Trail Special Edition features a matching 40-quart cooler in the cargo area that's mounted on a sliding tray, 17-inch wheels, all-weather floor mats, rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, and black seats with tan stitching. Can't get your hands on the Trail Special Edition? The SR5 trim is an equivalent but doesn't have the wheels, cooler, or mats.

Whether it's time for your next Toyota 4Runner, Camry, or Prius, come see us at Keith Pierson Toyota and check out our selection of new models. Our salespeople are here to show you the details of the cars and what you can expect from their performance. They're happy to discuss the experience you'll get during your ownership. If you're not ready to come in but still want to get a new car, take a look at our online inventory and start the process of buying your next car online for the easiest car-buying experience you'll ever have.