[ad_1]
The venerable Toyota 4Runner shows no signs of abating in popularity ahead of the introduction of its successor. Impressively, Toyota’s sales figures for the first quarter of 2024 indicate a 60.2% increase over the previous year for the 4Runner. Despite its aging design, the classic SUV’s dependable V6 engine and five-speed transmission continue to attract buyers as the release of its first redesign in 15 years approaches, prompting current model sales boosts.
The first quarter of the year saw a remarkable 33,823 4Runners leaving dealership lots, while the previous year’s first-quarter sales totaled 21,116 units. Although 2023 started off slowly for the 4Runner, the 2024 sales resurgence is more indicative of the vehicle’s typical market performance.
The 4Runner outsold every other Toyota SUV besides the RAV4 in Q1. Toyota
Despite entering the twilight years of its current generation, the 4Runner’s sales performance remains robust. This is all the more remarkable considering the current model’s architecture has been largely unchanged since 2009, making it one of the few remaining vehicles in the United States to still feature a five-speed automatic transmission. In contrast, competitors like the Ford Bronco offer a 10-speed transmission, and even the Jeep Wrangler has expanded its engine lineup to include turbocharged options.
The upcoming 4Runner generation will share the TNGA-F platform with Toyota’s other body-on-frame vehicles, including the Tundra, Tacoma, and the new Land Cruiser. Anticipation is high for the possible inclusion of a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, potentially accompanied by hybrid technology and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This development may align the 4Runner closer to the Land Cruiser, sparking curiosity about how Toyota will maintain distinct identities for these two traditionally off-road-focused SUVs.
In the interim, the market’s appetite for the classic 4Runner remains apparent. Enthusiasts and consumers alike are watching closely to see whether the upcoming sixth-generation 4Runner, set to debut later this year, lives up to its enduring legacy.
Got a tip or question for the author? Contact them directly: caleb@thedrive.com
[ad_2]
FAQs About Toyota 4Runner Sales and Future Models
Why is the Toyota 4Runner still popular?
The Toyota 4Runner has maintained its popularity due to its reputation for reliability, ruggedness, and the simplicity of its V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission which appeal to off-road enthusiasts and those who value proven mechanical components.
How many Toyota 4Runners were sold in the first quarter of 2024?
During the first quarter of 2024, Toyota sold 33,823 4Runner vehicles, a significant increase from the 21,116 units sold in Q1 of 2023.
What platform will the new 4Runner be built on?
The upcoming new 4Runner is expected to be based on the TNGA-F platform, which is used for Toyota’s body-on-frame vehicles like the Tundra, Tacoma, and Land Cruiser.
Will the new 4Runner have a different engine?
Though official details have not been confirmed, it is speculated that the new 4Runner may feature a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, potentially with hybrid assistance, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Conclusion
The Toyota 4Runner’s enduring appeal and strong sales, even on the brink of a generational update, underscores its status as a much-loved SUV with a loyal following. As one of the last bastions of old-school design in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, the enthusiasm for the current 4Runner model suggests that its simplicity and off-road capabilities continue to resonate with buyers. With the eagerly awaited debut of the all-new 4Runner later this year, the anticipation of how Toyota will blend modern advances with the model’s rugged heritage adds an exciting chapter to the 4Runner’s storied history.
