The Toyota 4Runner is the most long-lasting car model that the world has seen in recent years. The current model has been around for 13 years and is still selling like hotcakes. In fact, 2021 was the best-selling year for the 4Runner, which is insane when one considers how outdated it is. What is even crazier is the huge price markups buyers pay to get their hands on one of these trucks. Surely, there must be a reason behind these buying behaviors. Here's what one of the most outdated vehicles on the current market has to offer and why it is so appealing In the modern world.

Many Consider the Fifth-Generation Toyota 4Runner To Be Overpriced

Black 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary
Toyota

Many people, especially car reviewers, will suggest that the 4Runner is one of the most overpriced vehicles on the current market and there is absolutely no reason why you should get one. Well, on paper that makes sense. The normal MSRP for a TRD Pro 4Runner is roughly $53,000; however, markups can add $10,000 or even $20,000 to the original price. So, here we have a 13-year-old SUV that will take you well into the $60,000 range. Nowadays, you have plenty of options in this price range.

Related: Why The 80 Series Land Cruiser Is The Best 4x4 Ever Made

Why The Fifth-Gen Toyota 4Runner is Extremely Outdated

2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition side view
Toyota

Take a look at the lack of features of the 4Runner and you'll know why it is criticized as outdated. Buyers don’t get wireless charging, a heated steering wheel, ventilated seats, parking sensors, a power tailgate, or LED lighting. Also, features like the backup camera are ancient and offer very low resolution while phone charging ports include a cigarette lighter and a single USB-A port. Perhaps the most outdated part of all is the drivetrain. The 4.0 liter V-6 is unkillable, but is 20 years old, and the five-speed transmission takes you straight back to the early 2000s. It is slow and robs the engine of all its power and response. So, on paper one can easily agree that there is absolutely no reason in buying a brand-new 4Runner; however, that isn’t the case.

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Not Everyone Wants the Latest Technology

2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition interior dash view
Toyota

It is no secret that 4Runners last forever – even the new ones. We would argue that the current model may be the most reliable new car money can buy in the U.S. market. The fact that it is so old-school means that there is very little to go wrong; therefore, the money is spent on longevity and quality rather than gadgets and gismos. This reminds us of what Mercedes used to do in the 70s when its cars lacked luxuries compared to others but would easily outlast them. Aside from the reliability, some may also argue that they have no interest in trying to figure out how all the new technology in modern vehicles works; therefore, it is far more enjoyable for them to drive an old-school SUV. Perhaps the best part about the old-school design of the 4Runner is the huge physical buttons inside. You can use these while wearing gloves or while driving and paying attention to the road without having to constantly check If you are pressing the correct one on an annoying touch screen.

Related: Toyota Sequoia – How Toyota's Flagship SUV Fills The Land Cruiser’s Shoes

The 4Runner Offers Great Off-Road Abilities

Black 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition
Toyota

Even at 13 years, the 4Runner remains one of the most off-road capable trucks one can currently buy. It features multi-terrain response which alters traction control settings based on the terrain you are driving on, a rear differential locker, fox shocks, all-terrain tires, 10 inches of ground clearance, and even crawl control. Crawl Control is Toyota’s very effective off-road cruise control which distributes power to the wheels that need it the most without the driver having to use the accelerator pedal.

These off-road accessories and features don't just stay competitive with the current competition but are also integrated into a body-on-frame vehicle with tough suspension components that can take the beating of off-roading. This isn’t true for some modern vehicles that work with a much more car-like platform that isn’t as durable. Thanks to the cool boxy design, you also have plenty of cargo space and even a household plug in the trunk. This is great for outfitting the 4Runner with camping accessories that fit the needs of people who love to head out on adventures.

Related: Why the Land Cruiser is Toyota's Biggest Mistake

Final Thoughts

Black 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition
Toyota

Nowadays, manufacturers and car journalists believe that everyone wants the latest technology available and that what was good 10 years ago is now useless. That isn’t the case. Someone who wants a truck to use for proper truck things like tough off-roading, family adventures, or even hauling big items needs something tough. They won’t buy a Rimac Nevera or the new Land Rover Defender just to find out a couple of years later that it doesn’t appreciate being driven in the mud and over rough terrain all day long. Peace of mind and a vehicle that serves personal needs is what is needed here and that is exactly what the 4Runner offers. So, we shall stop complaining and enjoy one of the last truly old-school vehicles available on the current market.