__Vehicle Type:__ Mid-size SUV

__Price Range:__ $46,370 - (all features standard; excluding destination fees)

__Powertrain:__  The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th-anniversary special edition is built with a singular powertrain option.

It features a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque paired to a part-time four-wheel drive (4WD) drivetrain and five-speed automatic transmission.

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### Video:

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__What’s New for 2023?__

The Toyota 4Runner 40th-anniversary special edition is an all-new trim level for the 4Runner in the 2023 model year. It's based on the SR5 Premium trim level platform and is limited in production to 4,040 units. The 40th-anniversary 4Runner is offered in red, white, or black exterior paint with tri-colored graphics on the body sides and grille.

The 40th-anniversary trim level also offers bronze 17-inch wheels and bronze color stitching on the seats and shift knob with various 40th birthday callouts throughout the cabin.

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__What’s Good?__

- 40th-anniversary special edition styling
- Legendary reliability
- Off-road ability

__What’s Bad?__

- Poor fuel economy for its class
- Missing commonly expected interior features for 2023
- Outdated powertrain and platform relative to peers

__Would we buy one?__ We would! It's rumored the next-generation 4Runner will be a hybrid; so this is a great chance to grab a fan favorite before it's replaced.

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### More Photos:

[See more 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition Photos](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-4runner-2023/2023-toyota-4runner-photos).

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### Overview:

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-overview-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/2tNC0vYy7Tqli6hL3TtDQK/3a69ff4274cf1f4bec1c138f2ba27838/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-overview-image.jpg)

At its core, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th-anniversary special edition shares the same qualities of a body-on-frame and off-road capability as offered in other 2023 4Runner trim levels. While not as off-road capable as the TRD Pro trim level of the 4Runner, the 40th-anniversary trim provides 9.6 inches of ground clearance and a 33-degree approach angle, comparable to modern-day truck ability.

However, Toyota has yet to update the 4Runner’s powertrain, making it essentially a relic compared to other body-on-frame competitors like the [Ford Bronco](https://www.autolist.com/ford-bronco) and [Jeep Wrangler](https://www.autolist.com/jeep-wrangler). 

The 4Runner’s only engine option means it consumes fuel quicker than rivals, offering sub-par fuel economy ratings for a 2023 model year mid-size SUV. A rough, truck-like ride quality paired with outdated cabin features makes this 4Runner a nostalgic purchase compared to other vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment.

As a mid-size SUV, the 2023 4Runner offers seating for up to five, ample passenger and cargo space, and four doors allowing consumers to haul people and cargo comfortably. With body-on-frame construction, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner has a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and can venture into areas many competitors in the mid-size SUV segment can not.

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### Overall Score: 3.2/5 stars

#### Driving Experience: 2.5/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-driving-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/511EXKWXYxMiiZx9NunzZB/5f9ecb43420ab0bbcd4d8be3b3e15920/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-driving-image.jpg)

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner’s powertrain has been around for years and is starting to show its age relative to its peers. 

Acceleration takes 7.7 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, thanks to the stout V6 and automatic transmission and its paltry five speeds. Ride quality over large bumps can be rough, and the steering and brakes feel soft and spongy.

The off-road driving experience is where the 4Runner shines, with every 4WD equipped 4Runner equipped with features like skid plates, a two-speed transfer case, excellent approach and departure angles, and a maximum ground clearance of 9.6 inches. 

The best way to see if the driving experience offered by the 4Runner is what you are looking for in a mid-size SUV is to schedule a test drive with your local dealership.

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#### Safety Features: 3/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-safety-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6Xlp1oGPEgZd7zvtoGhCBe/9268daf02f2bf73a72503f4d75bb810a/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-safety-image.jpg)

Toyota outfits the 2023 4Runner with the Star Safety System, a suite of six standard driver-assistance features. Each 2023 4Runner features vehicle stability control, traction control, an anti-locking brake system, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and Smart Stop Technology.

However, standard safety features do not end with the Star Safety System, as Toyota adds automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control to the new 4Runner’s standard features list.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2023 Toyota 4Runner four out of five stars for overall safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the new 4Runner’s crashworthiness as Good overall. However, according to the IIHS, compared to rivals in the mid-size SUV segment, such as the [Toyota Highlander](https://www.autolist.com/toyota-highlander), [Mazda CX-9](https://www.autolist.com/mazda-cx+9), and [Jeep Grand Cherokee](https://www.autolist.com/jeep-grand+cherokee), the new Toyota 4Runner does not offer significant safety advantages. 

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#### Value: 2/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-value-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6PpmRyT6VdwrNnqyqe1E0d/29f2965e0053d70d955177ac752c4856/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-value-image.jpg)

It can be hard to place value on a special anniversary spec vehicle as it can hold special significance to some consumers. But for most shoppers, the extra price this version adds to the SR5 Premium might be hard to stomach. 

Where value is found in the new 2023 4Runner is in its real off-road capability, far exceeding the ability of its crossover competitors. Toyota has kept the 4Runner in the vehicle’s fifth generation since the 2010 model year, making it one of the oldest new cars on sale today.

Compared to current body-on-frame rivals such as the [Ford Bronco](https://www.autolist.com/ford-bronco) and [Jeep Wrangler](https://www.autolist.com/jeep-wrangler), the 4Runner’s powertrain is a relic. The 2023 4Runner has a higher base model price than the [Bronco](https://www.autolist.com/ford-bronco) and the [Wrangler](https://www.autolist.com/jeep-wrangler), but its top trim level offers more value for a lesser price than equal rival trims. According to Edmunds, a 2023 Toyota 4Runner owner’s highest ownership costs over the first five years are first fuel, closely followed by depreciation.

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#### Tech Features: 2/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-tech-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/eLbn2GQ1ZHx2q1YLU1NFx/0df57b7c00b76e63b8a3fbf968517f3a/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-tech-image.jpg)

The tech inside the 2023 Toyota 4Runner consists of an outdated 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible through a wired connection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new 4Runner also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, satellite radio, proximity keyless entry, and 3 USB ports to keep all passengers entertained on any journey.

Despite the lack of cabin tech updates to this 20234Runner, other trim levels have an optional built-in navigation system and a 15-speaker JBL audio system as available upgrades. 

Even with optional upgrades, however, the new 4Runner’s technology makes it feel a bit aged compared to the standard tech on competing mid-size SUVs. Commonly found features such as LED ambient lighting, power tailgate, and automatic headlights are not features included on any 2023 4Runner model.

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#### Practicality: 4.5/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-practicality-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/6FQpKz33or4VbKQLEo4JYO/bc4e745efa166b5570f354bd08df6c64/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-practicality-image.jpg)

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is a practical mid-size SUV in either its two-row or three-row configuration (though this special edition is only available with two rows). With a two-row design, the 4Runner seats five people, and its three-row structure can seat up to seven. While the two seats in the third row are best left to smaller people or kids, having an optional third row in a mid-size SUV is nice.

Toyota outfits the 2023 4Runner with two complete sets of LATCH connectors and a tether anchor for easy car seat placement. A flexible cargo area provides 47.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with the second row folded down. 

A unique feature that allows for longer items needing to be hauled is the 4Runner’s legendary automatic rear window. The front row features several large deep cubbies for storage. With a towing rating of up to 5,000 pounds, the 2023 4Runner is as versatile a family hauler as an off-roader.

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#### Styling & Design: 3.5/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-styling-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/5k1YwVo2DZ7pEbO4RWdbvA/8e36e63f40c4cd558cd86b59ea3b98ea/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-styling-image.jpg)

The 2023 4Runner 40th-anniversary special edition is based on the SR5 Premium trim. Still, it comes standard with 4WD and stylistic features such as a moonroof and tri-colored graphics on the body sides and grille. Bronze 17-inch wheels set the 40th-anniversary trim apart from other trim levels, a color scheme repeated on the interior with bronze accent stitching on the seats and shift knob.

Another stylistic cue of this special edition are the callouts found on the floormats, front headrests, and interior badging. All interior features are easy-to-use and present a simplistic design. The exterior graphics and bronze wheels make the 40th-anniversary 4Runner scream unique, and the interior comfort offered is on par with competitors in the class.

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#### Fuel Efficiency: 2.5/5 stars

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-fuel-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/7GH9OEtw2i0AsLzfsocKCy/85acb7b26c57e39b2fbb81fe9aad503d/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-fuel-image.jpg)

Toyota’s 4Runner has never been a fuel-efficient-minded model, so much so that the 4Runner’s combined miles-per-gallon (mpg) figure has not changed much since 1985. 

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner achieves an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, for a combined mpg rating of 17. For comparison, the V-6-powered 2023 [Jeep Wrangler](https://www.autolist.com/jeep-wrangler) has EPA estimates of up to 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. If you are in the market for a 2023 Toyota 4Runner, fuel efficiency should not be on your list of desired features.

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#### What’s it Going to Cost Me?

![2023-toyota-4runner-40th-cost-image](https://www.autolist.com/6tuem73u73an/lyYKm5Y5oTnUhvgeUG6x9/a947b6a1039677c494007721a997307e/2023-toyota-4runner-40th-cost-image.jpg)

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner is offered in eight trim levels: SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, 40th Anniversary Special Edition, Limited, and TRD Pro. The base SR5 trim level has a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $38,805. It offers cloth upholstery, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, reclining second-row seats, LED headlights, fog lights, tail lights, skid plates, and proximity keyless entry.

Standard infotainment in the base model __SR5__ trim consists of an 8-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, voice recognition, Bluetooth, satellite radio, multiple USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an eight-speaker audio system. The SR5 trim is available with third-row seats and an infotainment upgrade that includes HD Radio and built-in navigation. Standard driver-assistance features include forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera.

The __SR5 Premium__ trim level has a starting MSRP of $41,865. In addition to the features mentioned above in the SR5 trim, the SR5 Premium model adds hints of comfort and technology. For the extra roughly $3,000 difference in trim levels, the SR5 Premium trim adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, a four-way adjustable passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a universal garage door opener, and built-in navigation. At the SR5 Premium trim level, a moonroof also becomes optional.

With a starting MSRP of $41,665, the 4Runner __TRD Sport__ trim focuses on suspension refinement while adding an optional surround-view parking camera system, Softex material, and automatic side running boards.

The __TRD Off-Road__ trim, on the other hand, adds a locking rear differential, multi-terrain select, and crawl control to the basic SR5 trim level and starts at $42,650.

The 4Runner __TRD Off-Road Premium__ starts at $45,230, takes all the off-road advantages of the TRD Off-Road trim, and adds most of the same upgrades that the SR5 Premium offers. At the TRD Off-Road Premium trim level, a moonroof and a multiview terrain monitor are available features. The Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition has a base price of $46,370. It is marked by bronze wheels, unique interior, exterior badging, and graphics.

The 2023 __Toyota 4Runner Limited__ trim level retails for $48,040 and offers additional features such as a 15-speaker JBL stereo, genuine leather upholstery, driver’s seat memory settings, ventilated front seats, a surround-view parking camera system, front and rear parking sensors, and dual-zone automatic climate control. 

At the top of the new 4Runner trim levels is the Toyota 4Runner __TRD Pro__. The TRD Pro starts at $53,270 and includes Fox front and rear shocks, TRD springs, a roof rack, and multiple skid plates.

While other trim levels offer slightly more convenience, we suggest the 40th-anniversary special edition trim as it could be the final year of a fully gas-powered Toyota 4Runner, which is worth holding onto.

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### More Photos:

[See more 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Edition Photos](/https://www.autolist.com/toyota-4runner-2023/2023-toyota-4runner-photos).

Toyota's 4Runner celebrates its 40th birthday by releasing a special edition for the 2023 model year. Read our full review of this 2023 4Runner to see how this SUV stacks up against other off-road rivals. 

2023 Toyota 4Runner parent page

Video + Review: 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary

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Here are the top 2023 Toyota 4Runner for sale now. View photos, features and more. What will be your next ride?

Aquí están las listas de los mejores 2023 Toyota 4Runner a la venta lo antes posible. Ver fotos, características y más. ¿Cuál será tu próximo vehículo?

Video + Review: 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary

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