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For decades, the Toyota 4Runner has been a staple for off‑road enthusiasts, offering ruggedness and reliability. The latest, sixth‑generation model arrives with a fresh design and a host of new features, but it also brings a handful of quirks that have left some owners scratching their heads. Below is a candid look at the most common complaints from a seasoned 4Runner fan, along with a few observations that might help prospective buyers decide whether the new generation lives up to their expectations.
Rear‑Window and Hatch Functionality
The sixth‑generation 4Runner retains the rear roll‑down window that many fans appreciated in earlier models, but the automatic hatch that accompanies it has proven to be more trouble than convenience. When the window is lowered, the hatch will not open automatically; owners must manually lift it, a process that feels cumbersome, especially when dogs or gear are in the back. Even when the vehicle is running and the key is in the pocket, the window will not roll down automatically, suggesting a safety feature that can be frustrating in everyday use. While the automatic tailgate and rear‑window functions are advertised as a selling point, the reality is that they often require extra effort and can feel unreliable.
Interior Comfort and Technology Shortcomings
Inside, the 4Runner’s cabin has been trimmed down with a noticeable increase in plastic trim. While the base model of the previous generation offered soft‑touch materials on the doors, the new model only provides them in the higher‑trim Limited version. This shift has left many owners feeling that the vehicle has become less premium, especially considering its price point. The wireless charging pad in the dash is limited to about 5 W, which is insufficient for most smartphones. A sponsor, Quadlock, offers a higher‑output (15 W) solution that can be mounted magnetically, but the factory option remains underpowered for active users.
Seat Design and Off‑Road Modifications
One of the most noticeable changes is the way the rear seats tumble forward. In the sixth generation, all seats are designed to fold in the same direction, which prevents a truly flat load floor. Enthusiasts who enjoy car‑camping or hauling large gear find this limiting, as the seats cannot be laid flat like in the fifth generation. Additionally, the frame of the TRD Off‑Road model lacks threaded holes that would allow aftermarket rock sliders to be installed. This omission is surprising given that the SR5 version does include such threads, and it forces owners to seek alternative mounting solutions or forego certain upgrades entirely.
Powertrain, Fuel Efficiency, and Tank Size
The new 4Runner’s turbocharged engine delivers strong performance, but it also spools up quickly, which can reduce fuel economy when towing or driving in hilly terrain. Toyota has reduced the fuel tank from 21 gal in the previous generation to 19 gal, citing improved mileage. However, many owners report that the smaller tank, combined with the turbo’s consumption, results in a similar or even lower range than before. The fuel‑level warning light also comes on sooner than expected, which can be confusing for drivers who are accustomed to a larger reserve.
Missing Features That Matter to Enthusiasts
Another point of frustration is the lack of dual‑climate control in the base and mid‑trim models. The Tacoma, a sibling platform, offers this feature as standard, but the 4Runner requires an upgrade to the Limited trim to access it. For a vehicle priced in the mid‑$50,000 range, this omission feels like a missed opportunity. Similarly, the interior’s "poverty buttons" – a set of switches that control various lights and accessories – are not integrated into a single panel, forcing owners to wire them individually. While the vehicle’s electronics are modern, the user experience can feel fragmented.
Despite these drawbacks, the sixth‑generation 4Runner still offers many of the qualities that have made the series popular: solid off‑road capability, a comfortable ride, and a dependable powertrain. For owners who prioritize ruggedness over convenience, the new model remains a solid choice. However, those who value a fully equipped interior, seamless technology integration, and a truly flat cargo area may find the latest generation falls short of their expectations.
In the end, the sixth‑generation 4Runner is a mixed bag. It delivers on the core promise of off‑road durability while introducing a number of design choices that can feel restrictive or under‑powered for the modern enthusiast. Prospective buyers should weigh the trade‑offs between the new features and the lingering quirks, especially if they plan to use the vehicle for camping, towing, or daily commutes that demand a high level of convenience. By understanding these common dislikes, owners can make a more informed decision and prepare for the adjustments that come with the latest 4Runner.