Off-road capable and ready for fun, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport is one of the few truck-based SUVs produced these days. With boxy good looks, the 4Runner makes a great rough and tumble, off-roading vehicle.
Not much has changed for the 4Runner since its redesign in 2010, but there is a new TRD Sport trim level which is the subject of this review. The 4Runner comes in a whopping eight trim levels: SR5, Trail Special Edition, TRD Sport, SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited and TRD Pro.
What sets the TRD Sport trim apart from the other trims are unique styling features along with a special suspension for on-road handling. A hood scoop, heated front seats, simulated leather upholstery and TRD branded trim interior gives the interior and exterior a bit of a sporty vibe.
A 4.0-liter V6 makes the TRD Sport go producing 270 horses with 278 lb-ft of torque. The TRD Sport is offered with rear wheel drive and four wheel drive. My model was equipped with four wheel drive. A 5-speed automatic transmission comes standard. Expect to get a meager 16/city, 19/highway, and 17 combined MPG.
The TRD Sport has a good amount of ground clearance and as such it makes getting into it a bit challenging for those of us of the shorter persuasion. Once inside the spacious cabin, there’s plenty of visibility front, back and sides and plenty of storage space in the rear cargo space.
A touchscreen controls the tech that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Audio smartphone connectivity. The touchscreen is easy to use and clear to see and there are some redundant buttons for the more used functions making screen time quick and clean.
On the road the TRD Sport gets around easily, if not with any inspiration. While acceleration and shifting are smooth, there’s just no umph. However, get the 4Runner off the road and watch it shine. It is stable on turns both on the road and off-road.
If you do a lot of off-roading and want something stylish and comfortable to travel in, the TRD Sport shines.
