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The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV that has a cult following because of its reliability and off-roading prowess. The midsize SUV is rugged and can tackle obstacles that most vehicles should steer clear of. Do Toyota 4Runners have enough cargo space?

How big is the Toyota 4Runner’s cargo area?

The cargo area of a red 2023 Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV.
The rear cargo area of a 2023 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is a five-seater, but drivers can upgrade to a seven-seater. The 4Runner has 47.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet of space if the second row of seats is folded down. The three-row model has 46.3 cubic feet of space, with the third row folded and 88.8 cubic feet of space if all seats are down.

How does that compare to rivals? The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe midsize SUV has 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind its second row. It has 72.1 cubic feet of space with all seats folded down. So, the 4Runner is exceptionally roomy for its vehicle segment. There’s plenty of cargo space to stash gear.

The 4Runner is designed to accommodate drivers with adventurous lifestyles. It’s an off-roader that can handle tough terrain, especially upper trim levels.

What is the best 2023 Toyota 4Runner trim?

A white 2023 Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV is driving off-road through the water.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

The Toyota 4Runner comes in a whopping eight different trim levels. Car and Driver recommends the TRD Off-Road trim because of its value. The TRD Pro is the better off-roading 4Runner because of its ground clearance, but the 4Runner TRD Off-Road is a nice balance of capability and affordability.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road starts at $43,400. It uses a 4.0-liter V6 engine to make 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The midsize SUV gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 19 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road comes standard with Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and multiple skid plates. It also includes heated power outside mirrors, roof rails, and an in-key remote keyless entry system. The TRD Off-Road is designed to take on gnarly terrain and endure harsh off-roading conditions.

Is the Toyota 4Runner getting a redesign?

An orange 2023 Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV is parked outdoors.
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

Toyota has yet to announce a 4Runner redesign, but the midsize SUV should be redesigned sometime soon. The Toyota 4Runner appears antiquated compared to its rivals. The Tundra and Sequoia nameplates are arguably better than ever before following their redesigns.

Toyota’s midsize SUV could benefit from better fuel economy and better-quality interior materials. The 4Runner’s exterior could use an update as well.

A redesign could introduce a 4Runner hybrid option. Thus far, Toyota already produces a Toyota Highlander Hybrid, a standard hybrid Toyota Sequoia, and a RAV4 Hybrid. Even the Tundra has a hybrid powertrain option. The upcoming Corolla Cross Hybrid and Grand Highlander Hybrid both benefit from Toyota’s hybrid technological innovations. So, a redesigned Toyota 4Runner and the introduction of a 4Runner Hybrid are within the realm of possibility.

In the comment section below, let us know your thoughts about the Toyota 4Runner.

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