7 Issues With the 2023 Toyota 4Runner

Consumer Reports identified seven issues with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, but did find one impressive positive.
Written by Alexandra Maloney
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While
Toyota
has a lot of great vehicles, it’s becoming evident that the 2023
Toyota 4Runner
might not be one of them. In
Consumer Reports
testing of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, reviewers found far more cons than pros. These are the seven main issues highlighted with the midsize SUV. 

Clumsy handling and ride

Consumer Reports found that the 2023 Toyota 4Runner has a clumsy handling and ride, a con likely very noticeable to drivers. Reviewers noted that the body lean of the vehicle was excessive even with routine maneuvers, and that the SUV bounced around while on the road. Simply put, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner isn’t an incredibly agile vehicle. 
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Difficult to get into the vehicle

Accessibility proves to be another issue with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. Reviewers from Consumer Reports stated there was a, “big climb to get inside,” this vehicle. However, once you’re inside the 4Runner, there’s ample leg and knee room for the driver and front seat passenger. 

Low ceilings 

Another accessibility issue with the 2023 4Runner is the low ceilings in the vehicle. Low ceilings combined with low seating for the driver compromise driving view and scope. Not to mention, side windows are short, which further hurts driving position. 

Crammed interior space 

While the front seat passenger and driver have a lot of leg and knee room inside this vehicle, it isn’t the same story for the two back rows. Reviewers from Consumer Reports note that the second row is roomy enough and could fit two or three adults with the reclining seats, the third row is cramped and could likely only fit children.

Loud engine

The loud engine on the 2023 Toyota 4Runner is really only an issue when it comes to acceleration. As the 4.0-liter, 270hp, V6 engine accelerates, its engine roar is noisy and distracting. Luckily, besides that the cabin stays quiet during the ride, except for the occasional wind noise. 

Lack of four-wheel drive

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner has six trims – the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, 40th Anniversary Special Edition, Limited, and TRD Pro. Unfortunately, the four-wheel-drive system for this car is only available on the top of the line Limited edition.
Four-wheel drive really improves the overall feel and drive of the 4Runner, so the fact that it’s only available on the priciest trim is a huge letdown for drivers. 

Pricing 

The final major flaw Consumer Reports identified with the 2023 4Runner is the pricing structure. With the base model starting at over $40,000 and the luxury trims increasing to above $50,000, this is an
expensive SUV
Plus, for off-roading equipment, interior packages, and more, there’s additional costs tacked on.
MORE: Are Toyotas Expensive to Maintain?

What works with the 2023 Toyota 4Runner?

Despite these seven flaws, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner does have some great features, specifically when it comes to off-roading. This SUV really shines in the off-roading department, with a great level of ground clearance, underbody skid plates, and a powerful engine. 
While four-wheel drive is only available on the Limited trim, the feature amplifies this driving experience and allows drivers to truly get off the beaten path in this SUV.
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