2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport Review: A Slow and Sluggish Off-Road Companion

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport is an off-road behemoth that's designed to tackle the toughest trails, but its antiquated five-speed transmission holds it back from being a true performer. From a standstill, our test vehicle struggled to rev its engine, feeling labored and slow to respond. The result is a vehicle that feels sluggish and underpowered, especially when compared to its competitors.

But what about fuel economy? Unfortunately, the 4Runner TRD Sport's 16/19/17 mpg city/highway/combined rating doesn't exactly inspire confidence either. It's a trade-off for the added noise and vibration that comes with the V-8 engine, but it's not a great compromise.

On-road performance is also lacking, thanks to the body-on-frame architecture that makes it so tough off-road. The ride is rough and bouncy, and there's more body roll in corners than you'd expect from a vehicle of its size. One of our testers noted that the gear ratios seem a bit wide, and shifts are a tad slow – a far cry from the zippy performance we've come to expect from modern vehicles.

In terms of acceleration, the 4Runner TRD Sport is indeed slow, taking 8.0 seconds to reach 60 mph. For comparison, the Bronco took 7.7 seconds, while the Tacoma managed 16.0 seconds. The quarter-mile times weren't much better, with the 4Runner registering a sluggish 16.1 seconds at 87.0 mph.

But what about off-road performance? Here's where the 4Runner TRD Sport shines – its rugged design and four-wheel-drive system make it capable of tackling even the toughest terrain. With a payload capacity of 1675 lbs, it's well-suited for hauling gear and passengers on long adventures.

Ultimately, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport is a solid choice for those who prioritize off-road capability above all else. But for those who want a more refined on-road experience or better fuel economy, there are other options available.

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