Next 4Runner Gen - Plug-in Hybrid?

[gamefreakgc]

With the shift in the auto industry to reduce carbon emissions and gas consumption, many automakers are dropping gas engines in their trucks and SUV's in place of all electric powertrains. They are betting on consumers unlikely to ever take their ruggedly built trucks and SUV's off-road or overlanding and spend most of their time in urban areas near an EV charging station. While this might be true for the majority of the population, I expect there to be enough people out there that would not buy one to warrant some manufacturers to find a compromise - one that allows significantly higher gas mileage to meet current emission standards but still maintain the freedom of a gas engine.

This forum is mostly used by off-road enthusiasts and even though I only consider myself a casual off-roading driver but an avid outdoorsman, I cannot see myself switching to an all electric SUV due to one inescapable fact: There are no charging stations in remote places. I enjoy exploring the high Sierras of California and Nevada gold panning, rockhounding and fishing and I am yet to see a single EV charging station in my travels. That means, as of right now, I could never travel there again if I switch to an EV which is not a compromise I would make.

That leads me to my question, what do you think the likelihood is that Toyota will make a plug-in Hybrid 4Runner for the 2023 model year? I believe that a fuel efficient V6 (technology has come a long way but 4Runners still get terrible gas mileage) coupled with a 40 mile plug in hybrid battery could be the next big move for a 4Runner. They have already paved the way with the plug-in hybrid Rav4. Maintaining the rugged frame and 4WD capability of the 4Runner while fitting in an additional electric motor and battery could be a challenge - it would probably necessitate the 4Runner getting a wider wheelbase and longer frame - but it could be done.

If Toyota did create one, would you buy it? Why or why not?

 

[mscot]

Check out the 6th gen forum. It’s all rumors and speculation about the 23 or 24 model year redesign

 

[spartacus]

It would probably be like the rav4. A gasoline hybrid combo.

 

[ekinnee]

The thing I'd love to see is the v6 with both turbos from the Tundra. I think that'd solve our "performance problem."

 

[gamefreakgc]

The thing I'd love to see is the v6 with both turbos from the Tundra. I think that'd solve our "performance problem."

With Jeep creating the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and Dodge dropping a Hellcat engine in their TRX, that may not be that far fetched!

 

[Flyer]

It is very likely we will see hybrids and even EVs from Toyota. They would be smart to do that and they are not dumb, albeit slow as molasses sometimes. I have only had gas or diesels and my next new or newer vehicle with at least be a hybrid, if not an EV. I will never again buy a gasser or diesel rig unless it is a stopgap measure or a RV.

 

[KarleeLogan]

I've heard that a plug-in hybrid 4Runner could be a game-changer, offering both efficiency and off-road prowess.
Toyota's already dipped its toes in the plug-in hybrid market with the RAV4, so a 4Runner version isn't too far-fetched. It could give you the best of both worlds: decent gas mileage and the freedom to explore remote spots without worrying about charging stations.
Now, would I buy one? Absolutely! Having a fuel-efficient V6 paired with a plug-in hybrid setup sounds like a dream for adventurers like us. Plus, if the ev charging station manufacturer I stumbled upon has compatible solutions, it could make the switch even smoother.

 

[SurferUK]

Chase MPG too far and you end up where we are this side of the Atlantic...highly-tuned fragile engines loaded with complicated parts, the failure of just one wipes out all your supposed fuel savings.

I wouldn't own one outside of the warranty.