The new 4Runner won't look like a smaller version of that, unfortunately...and I rather like the looks of the new Sequoia other than the word S E Q U O I A plastered across the rear liftgate.
Toyota will give the 4Runner its own unique styling, for better or worse. Some of the mock-ups on the Internet have looked terrible, others not bad.
Just make it look like a smaller version of the LC300 GR sport and it will sell. Stick a hybrid motor between a 4.0 and an 8 speed tranny with front and rear lockers.
If Toyota really wanted to set the world on fire, they would make two 4Runners:
1. A fully redesigned model with all of the latest tech, green new deal turbo hybrid appeasements, better tranny, creature comforts, etc...it can be for Off-Road all the way up to Capstone (assuming the Capstone trim gets added to the 4Runner.)
2. An SR5 that gets the exterior redesign, the better tranny for fuel efficiency, a retuned 4.0 gas engine for more HP but retains all the other utilitarian (interior) aspects of the 5th gen.
#1 would appeal to everyone who wants a more modern ride and #2 would appeal to everyone who wants a superior 5th gen.
It will never happen because Toyota would be afraid the latter might outsell the former.
Minus green new deal terminology.
If I were grand poobah at Toyota, the 4Runner, Sequoia and LC would have an expensive but available V8 diesel option.
Efficient, reliable, lots of power, lots of torque and lots of profit (for Toyota.) Everybody wins.
If Toyota really wanted to set the world on fire, they would make two 4Runners:
1. A fully redesigned model with all of the latest tech, green new deal turbo hybrid appeasements, better tranny, creature comforts, etc...it can be for Off-Road all the way up to Capstone (assuming the Capstone trim gets added to the 4Runner.)
2. An SR5 that gets the exterior redesign, the better tranny for fuel efficiency, a retuned 4.0 gas engine for more HP but retains all the other utilitarian (interior) aspects of the 5th gen.
#1 would appeal to everyone who wants a more modern ride and #2 would appeal to everyone who wants a superior 5th gen.
It will never happen because Toyota would be afraid the latter might outsell the former.
or 3. Rerelease the gen 3 body/interior with the 1kz-te diesel and a 5 speed available in America this time.