Toyota salesman Dan Ingrassia says he’s never seen one before — at least, not until that day.

A customer at Toyota of North Charlotte recently drove off in a 2026 Toyota 4Runner Platinum: a new, luxury-leaning trim so rare that he claimed even die-hard 4Runner fans often don’t know it exists.

“Something, I have to say, I’ve never seen before in 8 years,” Ingrassia prefaced. “It’s kind of a big deal in the Toyota world. Somebody bought a Platinum 4Runner. Most people don’t even know this exists. But there is a trim level of 4Runner called Platinum; it just came out this year.”

He takes a stroll over to and around the vehicle.

“Basically, black, black, black. Kinda like a night shade?” Ingrassia continues, pointing at the trim. “But then the inside has, like, blue leather. Only comes with an i-Force Max. So, it’s the turbo hybrid truck system. Never before have I seen someone drive a Platinum 4Runner off of this lot. Very cool. That’s sharp.”

Ingrassia’s TikTok (@danvisioningrassia) on the topic currently has over 1,900 views.

Commenters Are Split

One person sounded like they could not wait to ruin Ingrassia’s day. “Literally EVERYONE knows about the platinum!! It’s on the Tacoma also!! Just nobody wants to spend $100grand for it.”

However, other commenters showed that this is untrue. Many don’t know unless they are a Toyota salesman or in the market for a 4Runner. A Platinum 4Runner is also not that expensive, but more on this shortly.

One person asked, “Sorry, but why is this important?” Another wondered, “Wait, you can get a hybrid 4Runner?”

It turns out, yes — yes you can!

What’s So Special About It?

The 2026 4Runner lineup offers nine distinctive grades, including the brand-new Platinum grade.

The Platinum trim occupies a specific, unusual niche among 4Runner folk. It’s the luxury trim, not the off-road one. While the TRD Pro and Trailhunter have the headlines for their trail-ready hardware, the Platinum is designed for buyers who want the 4Runner’s ruggedness wrapped in a genuinely upscale package.

The thing is, it’s only offered with the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain. There’s no base engine option. The system produces 326 HP and 465 lb-ft of torque from a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four. It’s also a full-time four-wheel-drive, with a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a locking feature.

What makes this model and trim really luxurious is, of course, the interior. It’s got upgraded leather in different colorways, heated and reclining second-row seats for a comfy ride, and a digital rearview mirror. It’s also got a premium JBL system with a 14-inch display.

As for pricing, J.D. Power lists the average price for the trim at $65,139, with most people paying between $60,084 and $67,764.

Still, There Are Problems

It is not without issues. Some reviews report that the 2.4-liter turbo engine creates a noisy, harsh, rough drive, and the new tech could pose issues for new hybrid drivers. Another reviewer had a few issues, including a cramped back seat, the donut spare tire, and low ground clearance. One person in the comments of that review even thought it was underpowered at 326 HP.

However, most reviews have given the 4Runner Platinum a good grade, but some have said the more expensive, roomier Land Cruiser would be preferable, or even ideal, in comparison, if it did not require premium gasoline.

@danvisioningrassia First ever 4runner Platinum #toyota #setoyota #2026 #4runner ♬ original sound – DanVisionIngrassia

MotorBiscuit reached out to Ingrassia via TikTok message and comment, and to Toyota via email. The article will be updated with any response.