The wait is almost over.
Toyota is finally preparing to launch an all-new 2027 Toyota 4Runner — and for fans of rugged, dependable off-road SUVs, this is huge news.
It has been nearly 15 years since the last major redesign, and while the outgoing 4Runner kept its loyal following, the competition has evolved rapidly. Buyers want real off-road capability but with better efficiency, modern tech, and improved everyday comfort.
Toyota seems ready to deliver.
Here’s everything we know so far about the completely new 2027 4Runner: the platform, engines, tech upgrades, what trims to expect, when it is coming, and whether it might be worth waiting for.
Why the 4Runner Matters So Much
In a world flooded with crossovers pretending to be SUVs, the 4Runner has stayed true to its roots.
It has always been a body-on-frame, rugged, go-anywhere machine — built to handle real trails, tough winters, and long hauls.
- Massive off-road following: Overlanders, weekend warriors, and adventure families have trusted the 4Runner for decades.
- Legendary reliability: Many older 4Runners are still running strong past 250,000 miles.
- Simple, durable engineering: Built more like a truck underneath — strong, reliable, old-school toughness.
That is why news of a true redesign is causing such a stir.
Toyota has to balance keeping that old-school toughness while modernizing the parts buyers have been asking for.
2027 Toyota 4Runner: What’s Confirmed So Far
Toyota officially confirmed that the 4Runner will finally move to the TNGA-F platform — the same strong, modular body-on-frame architecture used in the new Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and Tundra.
Turbocharged engines are replacing the old naturally aspirated V6.
Hybrid versions are coming — built for both efficiency and off-road torque.
Major interior modernization is happening — including big tech upgrades.
New Engine Options: Turbo Power and Hybrid Strength
The old 4.0L V6 is finally being retired.
Instead, the new 4Runner will borrow powertrains from the new Tacoma and Land Cruiser.
Expected engines include:
- 2.4L Turbocharged Inline-4: Around 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque (similar to Tacoma)
- 2.4L Turbocharged Hybrid (i-Force Max): Around 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque
That hybrid powertrain is a game changer.
It means the 2027 4Runner could have stronger low-end torque for off-roading than any version before — and better MPG for daily use.
Transmission:
- 8-speed automatic expected across the lineup.
No word yet on a manual transmission, but it is unlikely.
Toyota seems focused on delivering strength, smoothness, and efficiency.
Off-Road Capability: Still a Real 4Runner
Toyota is not going soft.
The 2027 4Runner will stay body-on-frame, real low-range capable, and designed for serious trail use.
What to expect:
- Part-time and full-time 4WD options depending on trim
- Two-speed transfer case (low-range gearing)
- Locking rear differential available
- Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select upgraded for tougher trails
- TRD Pro version with beefed-up suspension, skid plates, all-terrain tires
Toyota knows it cannot mess with the 4Runner’s off-road identity — and early test mules show real trail-ready capability is staying.
Interior and Technology: A Huge Upgrade Coming
If there was one consistent complaint about the outgoing 4Runner, it was the ancient interior tech.
The new 2027 4Runner changes that.
Expected upgrades include:
- 8-inch and optional 14-inch touchscreen displays (shared with Tacoma and Tundra)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available digital instrument cluster
- Upgraded materials and seating
- New driver assistance features (adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking)
This will finally bring the 4Runner into line with modern rivals like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler — without losing its rugged roots.
Expected Trims for the 2027 4Runner
Toyota will likely keep the familiar trim structure buyers already know, with updates to features and equipment.
Expected lineup:
- SR5: Base rugged model — off-road ready out of the box
- TRD Off-Road: Enhanced off-road gear and traction management
- TRD Off-Road Premium: Adds luxury touches to the TRD Off-Road
- Limited: More luxurious version, AWD standard, softer suspension
- TRD Pro: The full hardcore off-road beast — heavy-duty suspension, skid plates, off-road tires, specialized styling
A new “Trailhunter” trim, focused on overlanding (similar to Tacoma Trailhunter), is rumored — but not yet confirmed.
Expected Pricing for the 2027 4Runner
Starting prices will likely rise over today’s 4Runner, but Toyota will try to keep it competitive against the Bronco and Wrangler.
Estimated starting price:
- Around $42,000 for base SR5
- TRD Off-Road models closer to $48,000–$50,000
- TRD Pro could top $60,000 with all options
Hybrid models may carry a premium of about $2,500–$4,000 depending on trim.
Release Date: When Can You Get One?
Toyota has not confirmed an exact on-sale date yet, but sources inside Toyota suggest:
Official reveal: Late 2025
Orders open: Early 2026
Deliveries begin: Mid-to-late 2026 as a 2027 model year SUV
That means if you are thinking about a new 4Runner, now is the time to start planning your trade-in or ordering strategy.
Should You Wait for the 2027 4Runner?
If you love real off-road capability, proven reliability, and modern tech — YES, it will be worth the wait.
Toyota is finally addressing every major weakness (interior tech, MPG, towing, powertrain) without messing with the hardcore ruggedness that made the 4Runner a legend.
However:
- If you need a new SUV immediately, the 2024–2025 4Runner is still a solid buy.
- If you can hold off 12–18 months, the 2027 model will almost certainly be a smarter long-term investment.
Final buying advice:
If you love the 4Runner’s heritage, want hybrid torque for off-roading, and need better daily tech — the 2027 model is the one you have been waiting for.
Final Thoughts: The 4Runner Is Back — And Better Than Ever
After years of minor updates, Toyota is finally giving the 4Runner the full overhaul it deserves.
Turbo power, hybrid efficiency, serious off-road chops, and a real modernization of the interior make the 2027 Toyota 4Runner one of the most exciting SUV launches in years.
If you have been holding onto an old 4Runner — or waiting for something that mixes real capability with modern daily usability — this is your moment.
Stay tuned right here at BidForAutos.com — where we bring you the latest automotive news, first looks, buying advice, and the best real-world car coverage anywhere.