2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro SUV

The SUV’s rugged character is its main selling point, combined with its decent practicality and resale value. This 4Runner TRD Pro is probably the prime example of how cars can still stay relevant to the market even after years of redesign. However, with new rivals dominating the off-roading sector in recent ages, can the 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro be a worthy deal for off-roading enthusiasts?

The TRD Pro variant is the top-of-the-line off-road-focused trim of the Toyota 4Runner lineup. It gets the best of the 4Runner in terms of features and off-road hardware. Here is an overview of all the off-roading equipment and technology that you get by purchasing this configuration-

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro gets some advanced driver assistance for the 2020 model. It also gets the Toyota Safety Sense standard across the trims. You also get an updated infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It comes with 17-inch matte black alloy wheels that look good from the outside.

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The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is already equipped with all the off-road hardware that you will ever need. We do not recommend going for many optional features, as it will make the purchase very expensive. You always have the customization options for later if you need any specific add-on. We recommend going for the army green color as it best suits the character of the 4Runner.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro quenches its hunger for power from a base 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine, capable of punching the SUV with a power output of 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a friendly 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive which is the only shortcoming of the 4Runner drivetrain. Riders only have a choice of a 4x4 drivetrain with the TRD Pro model, which is a prerequisite for an off-roading vehicle.

The base engine has been around for quite a while now and doesn’t shy away from providing those powerful speed thrusts. The SUV produces enough power and twist to crawl up mud puddles and climb steep hills. The 4Runner is only put down by its aging automatic transmission that is sometimes slow to respond.

Performance-wise, the 4Runner TRD Pro lags behind its rivals in the overall power charts. Still, the engine packs plenty of punch to crawl through unforgiving terrain. Toyota only offers a single powertrain option, with no powerful variant available. This puts it at a disadvantage in the speed charts as well, as the 4Runner trails far behind its Land Rover, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Dodge Durango.

How well does the 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro handle?

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro lends out an aggressive performance that complements its bold looks very well. For starters, the TRD Pro is a cut above the regular 4Runner particularly because of its stellar off-roading capability. The TRD Pro enjoys the privilege of Fox shocks and specific TRD-tuned front springs in place of the regular suspension setup. 

Other exclusive off-roading equipments up its sleeves include a locking rear differential, multi-terrain select, and revised front and rear bumpers for enhanced departure and approach angles. We particularly love the TRD Pro’s on-road manners as well, with the sophisticated shocks lending it a smooth and composed ride around town. Toyota’s exclusive Crawl Control system makes light work of difficult obstacles, while the TRD cat-back exhaust included this year makes up for quiet ride quality.

2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Braking Performance

For a rock crawler like the 4Runner, braking is a paramount factor to get out of sticky situations. On that note, every 4Runner SUV comes standard with ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS on each wheel. The thick front and rear brake rotors are potent enough to stop the heavy momentum of the SUV right on its shoulders. The SUV responds in a jiffy whenever you push the brake pedal, although there is some hint of the heavy curb weight of the SUV while coming to a stop.

Toyota hasn’t revealed the 60-0 stats of the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. If we consider that it is the lightest vehicle in the comparison and uses decently sized braking hardware as a part of the kit, the braking performance can compete with the competitors. The Land Rover Defender beats all the other competitors with quite a margin in braking distance.

Compared to other 4Runner models, the TRD Pro variant still suffers in the fuel efficiency department owing to its off-road stature. The 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro can spin around the city for an MPG of 16. The highway MPG stands at 19. This equates to a somewhat subpar combined MPG of 19. With its colossal fuel tank capacity of 23 gallons, the 4Runner TRD Pro can shell out 368 miles in the city and 437 miles on the highway. The 4Runner’s subpar fuel economy isn’t particularly ideal for any daily errands. Also, Toyota’s aged 5-speed automatic gearbox doesn’t lend a positive impact on the fuel economy either.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is the least fuel-efficient off-roader in its class, prompting you to carry extra jerry cans while exploring the wilderness. Its large fuel tank capacity does make up for a few trips to the fuel station. The 5-speed automatic transmission fails to offer flexibility in gear ratio, leading to a poor fuel economy.

In terms of comfort, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro’s interiors pack plenty of comforts. The seats are a perfect fit for the wilderness in the Softex leatherette trim. The seats include heating functionality to provide you warmth on chilly days. The seats offer adequate support while the SUV wades through zig-zag terrain. The rear seat bench is also very roomy for large-sized adults. With a seating capacity of 5, the 4Runner offers a lot of incentive for you to grow your family in unless you are planning to add a 3rd-row. 

The 4Runner has its usual downside though, with the switchgear and dashboard design dating back to a decade ago. The 4Runner offers a massive 46.3 cubic feet of space behind its rear seats, which is enough to stow all your luggage on a weekend getaway. Folding them down frees up a maximum of 88.8 cubic feet, which is above average for a family SUV.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is a commodious haven, with plenty of headroom and legroom for passengers in the front and back. Also, its above-average cargo capacity makes it a practical choice for space-savvy customers. It offers the best cargo area in the competition, making it a compelling option for those who prefer long journeys. The standout interior aspects of the TRD Pro trim are-

• SofTex-trimmed front and rear seats
• Heated front seats
• Tilt-and-slide sunroof
• Optional 3rd-row seating
• Push-button start

What’s there to keep you entertained?

Toyota offers a much-needed upgrade to the infotainment display. An 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is offered as standard. This screen is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, which can play music, control smart home devices, aid navigation, and park with just the power of your voice. The new screen brings crisper graphics to the equation. For entertainment purposes, music lovers can groove to the beats of the premium 15-speaker JBL audio system, standard only on the TRD Pro model.

The SUV also gets a fresh 4.2-inch instrument panel, which adds to the modernity of the cabin. Moreover, 2 USB ports in the front and rear aid further connectivity. However, the HVAC controls and the other switchgear still look very ancient compared to the rest of the cabin. The infotainment suite of the TRD Pro variant includes-

• 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay
• Android Auto
• Amazon Alexa
• 4.2-inch instrument panel screen
• Premium 15-speaker JBL audio

The TRD Pro variant of the 4Runner distinguishes itself from the regular 4Runners with some bold visual elements. For starters, the SUV receives a TRD Pro–specific “TOYOTA” front grille that looks macho from every angle. The top-of-the-line TRD Pro receives an exclusive Army Green color to highlight its rugged status. 

Other standout exterior elements that elicit double-takes from passersby include the TRD black badging, rooftop cargo basket, and a menacing set of 17-inch wheels wrapped in Nitto Terra Grappler all-terrain tires. The 4Runner TRD Pro’s aging charm is still a sight to behold, although we would still appreciate some visual refreshments to stay relevant to the competition.

The 4Runner’s sensational off-road prowess is credited to its rugged body-on-frame construction that enhances strength and durability to grapple the reins over those challenging terrains. Its 9.8 inches of ground clearance also highlights its serious off-roading prowess. It offers the shortest wheelbase in the competition but manages to offer good space inside the cabin. The 4Runner TRD Pro turns on the style with its exterior features like-

• Standout TOYOTA grille
• Matte black 17-inch alloy wheels
• Roof basket
• Lifted suspension with FOX shocks
• LED foglamps
• TRD black badging
• Nitto Terra Grappler all-terrain tires

The Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) is a standard asset on all 2020 4Runner models to give its customers peace of mind regarding safety while they explore unknown terrains. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not tested the 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro or even the regular variants of the 4Runner. Still, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro packs in a bundle of safety features to keep you safe in every situation. 

Unfortunately, in-demand features like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera haven’t made their way yet to the 4Runner SUV. The TRD Pro does get integrated LED fog lights that provide better visibility in thick fog than your regular halogen fog lamps. The safety features include:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert
• Automatic high beams
• Adaptive cruise control
• Accident Avoidance System
• Emergency Brake Assist

2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro vs 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is the best off-roader in its lineup, yet it is outclassed by the well-equipped Jeep Grand Cherokee in almost every aspect. The Jeep’s modern interior design appeals to the majority of the youthful audience. While the Toyota is comfortable inside, its outdated interiors represent a wide generational gap. 

This year, the 4Runner’s technology suite gets a complete revamp, which gives it some respite and a fighting chance against modern rivals like the Jeep. The 4Runner also offers more standard safety features than the Grand Cherokee. Still, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk offers almost the same feature list as the 4Runner TRD Pro at a lower base price, making it a more affordable and justified buy. 

2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro vs 2020 Land Rover Defender

The Defender is an all-new entrant into the off-roading segment of the United States for 2020, with Land Rover reincarnating this iconic nametag after several years. The Defender proves itself to be a force to reckoned with, thanks to its wide array of luxurious features and cutting-edge technology in a stellar off-roading package. However, the Defender’s lofty price tag drives away most of the budget-conscious drivers. Still, the 2020 Land Rover Defender comes out as a more modern and capable option. It is also a better vehicle on the road and easy to live with for everyday uses. The decision between the two depends on the priorities and budget.

2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro vs 2020 Dodge Durango Citadel

The Dodge Durango is a capable semi-luxurious family cruiser that has plenty of power under its hood and a host of creature comforts to keep everyone engaged. The cabin is well-suited for long adventures with your family, although the Durango isn’t as adept in going off the beaten path as the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. The Dodge Durango isn’t meant to stray off-road as its Jeep compatriot despite possessing the same powertrain and is better confined to the comfort of the highway roads. So if off-roading isn’t your sole purpose, the Dodge Durango is a much better option than the 4Runner thanks to its better comfort and convenience.

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is an aging veteran that has its own set of pros and cons. In this matter, the SUV’s pros easily outweigh the cons and it is easily one of the most capable off-roading SUVs in the market. On the contrary, the 4Runner’s aging interior layout and meager fuel economy are still a downside for most family-oriented buyers. 

Still, this is a reliable Toyota product that stands the test of time better than any of its rivals. The TRD Pro also offers decent practicality and safety to justify itself as a great family proposition. The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro rises to the occasion wherever you go off the beaten path and is still a very reliable buy in its segment.