Toyota 4Runner History
History
The 4Runner launched for 1984, originally a pickup with a fiberglass top, and evolved into a dedicated body-on-frame SUV that became a benchmark for off-road durability.
Across six generations it kept its rugged ladder-frame construction even as rivals went unibody; the off-road TRD Pro arrived for 2015, and an all-new sixth generation launched for 2025.
Generations
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First generation · N60
The original 4Runner — essentially a pickup with a removable top.
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Second generation · N120/N130
A more wagon-like body; still closely truck-based.
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Third generation · N180
Fully dedicated SUV body; a durability benchmark.
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Fourth generation · N210
Larger fourth generation with available V8.
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Fifth generation · N280
Very long-lived generation; introduced the TRD Pro (2015).
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Sixth generation · N500
All-new sixth-generation 4Runner on the TNGA-F platform.
Body styles
- SUV
Notable special editions & performance variants
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TRD Pro
Top off-road trim with upgraded suspension, skid plates, and unique styling.
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TRD Off-Road
Off-road package with a locking rear differential and crawl control.
Related models