I think we're all just afraid of the 4runner turning into an egg-shaped awd object...Could it be cheaper? Hilux, FJs, Prados...The terrorists seem to think they are pretty cheap. lol.

https://www.automobilemag.com/news/t...japanese-suvs/

I didn't realize "Soccer Moms" were a large demographic for demanding different transmission and engine options. I'm also pretty sure there is broad support for infotainment screens that are larger in display size than an iPhone 8 along with Carplay/Android Auto capability.

Sorry, seemed too wordy so I edited my post on you....Anyways, the Highlanders seem to do pretty terrible in this diagonal test. So not sure if that is still a comparison for me. I don't think Toyota has made any good AWD systems...Might as well get a Subaru.

YouTube

My 2016 4Runner seems like high tech to me. It's the first vehicle I've ever had that has a back up camera, touch screen, hands-free bluetooth phone capability, USB ports, power seat, DC/AC power inverter, etc. Also the first SUV I've had with automatic transmission, not to mention all those "doodads" like crawl control, ATRAC, etc.

Does the T4R compete with any other imports? The fact that if Toyota does a drive train upgrade, wouldn't they have to get a new EPA cert? The tariffs that are imposed might be another reason why they haven't changed. Sales figures keep climbing, so why fix what ain't broke.
The other fact is that the world and especially the US is populated with the most distracted drivers in the history of the automobile. People just plain can't drive anymore, and don't really care about driving focused and safely. Put down your phones and we won't need safety sense. I work all around the country and have had rental cars of many different brands. Most of them are junk imo. The new Cherokee has to be the worst pos Ive ever been in. It felt unsafe and had me thinking that 30 years ago, my 79 Corolla was a better vehicle.
Safety nannies are the most annoying gadgets ever put in a vehicle. The vibrating seat in the GM suvs scared the shit outta me. When the rare 4Runner rental comes along, I'm dancing in the Hertz lot. But I learned to drive in the 70s in a 67' Ford country sedan wagon. So when learning in a land yacht that can take down a small house, you actually have to pay attention.
And I will say it again, put down your phones, quit putting on your make up, playing with your infotainment, and drive your vehicle. We won't need safety sense. If not take an uber. Please.....
Edit: Although I do think the BT phone connection is a great addition for folks that work out of their vehicles and have to do business while driving.

This x100. I feel bad for people getting swindled with the TRD PRO! 50k price tag for stickers and entry level aftermarket suspension. The ORP includes things the PRO doesn't even have, which is ridiculous. The truck is overpriced as it is.

I totally love my 18 ORP, but I got it with 22k for $31k with pre-paid maintenance from a family member. I think the new prices are totally insane. However, I do love the simplicity of it. It is a refreshing change from my '14 Land Cruiser which was polar opposite, and completely over the top in all regards.

I don’t like the new 4Runner because it has new tech like power steering and hydraulic brakes.

Give me all manual tech!!!

It’s a big conspiracy.