2020 Toyota 4Runner Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner is a mid-sized SUV with four doors and a large cargo space. It's the perfect vehicle for daily commutes, long road trips and off-road excursions. Toyota has one of the best reputations in the automotive industry when it comes to reliability. Still, the mid-size SUV field is a stacked one with plenty of options. Here are 10 good reasons to choose the 4Runner and a few reasons why it may not be right for you.

What's New For 2020?

The 4Runner doesn't look too much different on the inside or outside for 2020. In fact, it hasn't changed its appearance in quite awhile. There are, however, some nice, new functional upgrades for the 4Runner this year. One of the most important new additions is Toyota's Safety Sense-P package. This package gets you a bunch of the latest driver-assist technologies and safety features.

On the inside, more connectivity options have been added for 2020. There are now extra USB ports in the back and better smartphone integration up front. The driver's instrument panel gets a makeover this year too. Other than those minor additions, the 4Runner remains the same as the 2019 models.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Toyota 4Runner – The Pros

1. Strong Engine Performance

There are a lot of old-fashioned elements to the 4Runner. It's not a surprise that they're also still using the old, naturally-aspirated, 4.0-liter V-6 engine. It's been such a fantastic performer so there's really no good reason to replace it now. This V-6 cranks out 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Every trim gets this power plant along with an automatic 5-speed transmission.

2. Large and Versatile Cargo Area

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner gives you plenty of space and options for storing your precious cargo. The rear seats can be configured in a number of ways to provide you with adequate space for whatever you need to transport. Depending on how things are set up, you can get from 46.3 cubic-feet of space up to a massive 89.7 cubic-feet of space.

3. Amazing Off-Road Performance

The Toyota 4Runner is easily the best off-road performer in this class of vehicles. Most trim levels have 4X4 as an option. For some serious off-road fun, you can opt for the TRD Off-Road Premium or the TRD Pro. These trims can get you some extra perks like extended ground clearance, upgraded suspension systems and a locking rear differential. Both models have 17-inch wheels and Active Traction Control. The Pro model comes with Fox shocks and tuned front springs. The 4Runner is powerful enough to do some serious rock crawling.

4. Great Steering and Handling

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner features excellent steering and handling. You'll find that this is the case whether you're on a paved street or over rough terrain. Steering is firm yet accurate. There's a surprisingly good steering radius for a vehicle of this size. The braking power is excellent. You'll be able to stop on a dime even with the 4Runner's heavy weight.

5. Multiple Configurations and Trim Levels

Toyota gives you plenty of options. You can customize and receive a Toyota 4Runner that perfectly suits your needs or maybe just your sense of style. In all there are eight different trim levels. Most of these come in 4X2 and 4X4 variations. While they all come with the same powertrain, they are filled with different feature packages to suit different needs. There are also, of course, those sporty off-road models as well for the the adventurous drivers.

6. Impressive safety Features

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner is a safe vehicle for you and your passengers. You can rest easy knowing that your loved ones will be safe inside of the 4Runner. New this year is Toyota's Safety Sense-P package. This package gives you a number of driver-assist features. A Pre-Collision System warns of impending crashes and can even detect pedestrians. Adaptive Cruise Control, automatic headlights and a Lane-Departure System all keep you focused and safe.

Every trim level gets standard driver and front-passenger airbags. You also get side airbags, front-head airbags and rear-head airbags. Brake Assist, ABS brakes and child safety locks round out some of the more notable safety features.

7. Modern Technology and Connectivity

Some of the best upgrades that the 4Runner gets in 2020 have to do with the infotainment system. Connectivity is better than ever for this year's models. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available for the first time. You can also connect your smart devices via Bluetooth or USB port. A large, 8-inch touchscreen displays controls and information with crisp, bright graphics.

Amazon Alexa compatibility is offered for 2020. A navigation system is on tap to help you find your way. Toyota has partnered with JBL to include a premium sound system in the latest 4Runners. Even the base models get a powerful sound system with high-end speakers.

8. A Comfortable Interior

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner offers a basic but comfortable interior. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The driver's seat has a nice shape to it that holds you firmly in place. The base model gets front seats with 8-way power adjustments. Perforated leather trim is available as well as heating and ventilation up front.

9. Plenty of Passenger Space

Room for a bunch of passengers is one of the best reasons to buy a larger vehicle. The Toyota 4Runner can comfortably seat up to five individuals. Entering and exiting the vehicle is easy for the driver and front passenger. Once in the back row, passengers can enjoy plenty of legroom. Toyota has added a lot of cup holders and small-item storage spaces throughout the interior to accommodate all of your passengers.

10. Toyota Reliability

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner is a new vehicle, so there aren't a lot of reliability statistics as of yet. Since it's practically the same as the 2019 models, you can safely assume that it will be just as reliable as those were known for being. Toyota vehicles as a whole tend to outlast the competition. The brand is legendary at this point for their vehicle longevity. This reliability and the good resale prices that used Toyota's command makes buying one a good value.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Toyota 4Runner – The Cons

1. The Dated Design

Both the exterior and interior haven't changed too much over the years. Some 4Runner fans may be happy about this. There's an old-school charm and familiarity that some drivers may prefer. For anyone looking for something fresh, new or modern, the old-school designs may be disappointing.

2. The Plastic Interior

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner has a well-designed interior. It's quite comfortable and all of the displays and controls are ergonomic and intuitive to find and use. The fit and finish are excellent. The downside here is that the materials are far from what you might find in a luxury SUV. There's a lot of plastic everywhere. Some drivers may consider this a cheap look and feel for such an expensive SUV.

3. Rough Ride Quality

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner offers truck-like performance and utility features. Unfortunately, it can feel like driving a truck too and not in a good way. This SUV may not be for everyone. The ride quality might feel a bit rough and unrefined for some drivers.

How the 2020 Toyota 4Runner Stacks Up to the Competition:

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner has three main competitors. These are the Ford Edge, Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Passport. The Ford Edge is a bit cheaper and offers more powertrain choices. The 4Runner is hands down a better off-road performer. The Edge gives you slightly more interior space for passengers. The 4Runner offers a good deal more space in the cargo area. When it comes to utility and functionality, the 4Runner is the winner here.

Compared to the Chevy Blazer, the Toyota 4Runner is once again the more expensive of the two vehicles. It's also once again the best off-road option. The Blazer offers better gas mileage, but the 4Runner has better towing and payload-hauling capacities. Based on the record of previous models, the Toyota should be the more reliable vehicle between these two.

The Honda Passport offers comparable horsepower and slightly better fuel economy than the Toyota 4Runner. The 4Runner just can't be beat when it comes to hauling, towing or off-road performance. The Passport may have a more comfortable interior for daily driving, but the 4Runner really wins out in all of the performance stats that matter.

In Conclusion:

SUVs have moved away from what they once were. SUVs were once built on truck platforms with steel frames and respectable off-road and towing capabilities. Newer and often smaller SUVs are now all about comfort, people hauling and grocery getting. The 2020 Toyota 4Runner is the old-fashioned real deal.

The 4Runner isn't just a real utility vehicle, it also has all of the comfort and modern features that drivers have come to expect. It's a safe vehicle that will give you the legendary Toyota reliability. If you're searching for the right mid-sized SUV, it doesn't get much better than the Toyota 4Runner.