Toyota->ke88’s Racing Development team recently pulled the covers off this hardened version of the popular 4Runner->ke1844 SUV with a new off-road packaged called TRD Pro. It puts together some stout suspension equipment for handling some of the toughest terrain around and a few cosmetic upgrades to make the looks match its capabilities.

Starting with a 1.5-inch suspension lift in the front, the TRD Pro 4Runner gets an extra inch of wheel travel thanks to remote-reservoir Bilstein shocks that help the 4Runner with added ground clearance and help smooth out rough terrain. Remote-reservoir Bilsteins also find a home in the 4Runner’s rear suspension.

All-new, 17-inch TRD alloy wheels are murdered out in all black and wrapped with more aggressive off-road tires. Although Toyota doesn’t specify, the 4Runner in many of the pictures appear to be wearing modified Falcon tires.

Appearance wise, the 4Runner TRD Pro only comes in three colors: Black, white, and an all-new Inferno Red. The unique grille prominently displays "TOYOTA," a throwback to the old FJ40 and more recent FJ Cruiser->ke353. Strong aluminum skid plating with a stamped "TRD" logo visible under the front bumper provide the necessary protection needed off road, while TRD Pro-specific bumpers give the 4Runner a menacing look.

Toyota left the interior almost untouched except for a TRD shift handle, TRD Pro-stitched floor mats, and red-stitched seats throughout the cabin along with red stitching on the center console.

The TRD Pro package will also available on the 2015 Tundra and Tacoma->ke1042. There’s no word yet on pricing, but the trio of trucks go on sale this fall.

Click past the jump to read more on the Toyota 4Runner

2014 Toyota Rock Star 4Runner TRD Pro Series

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Toyota Rock Star 4Runner TRD Pro Series
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 270
  • Torque: 278
  • Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

2014 Toyota 4Runner

The venerable 4Runner has been a mainstay in the rugged body-on-frame SUV segment for quite a while. Currently in its fifth generation, the 4Runner is getting an aggressive yet sporty mid-cycle refresh for 2014.

Power still comes from the same 4.0-liter V-6 making 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. A five speed auto routes power to either the rear wheels or all four wheels when the four-wheel-drive option is selected.

The 4Runner is still holding strong in a segment that seems to have lost its masculinity. CUVs have permeated the market, put the ruggedness of its body-on-frame construction and longitudinally-oriented engine with a true-grit transfer case still have the a place in 2015.

Pricing for a 2014 4Runner starts at $32,820 for a base model with two-wheel drive. Prices can top $43,000 in Limited trim with all the bell and whistles added on.