The 2027 Toyota 4Runner is expected to be a carryover year for the sixth generation SUV that launched for 2025. So far, Toyota has confirmed one change: a new Hot Honey paint color for the TRD Pro. Everything else, including pricing and full specs, is expected to follow the 2026 model closely.
That makes this guide a little different. We clearly separate what Toyota has confirmed from what is expected, so you can plan your purchase without guesswork.
We also cover current pricing, all nine trims, both engines, towing, the real owner complaints and whether you should wait for the 2027 model or buy a 2026 today.
2027 Toyota 4Runner at a Glance
| Detail | Status | What We Know |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Honey color for TRD Pro | Confirmed | Announced by Toyota on July 28, 2026 |
| Generation | Confirmed | Sixth generation, introduced for 2025 |
| Trim lineup | Expected | Same nine trims as 2026 |
| Engines | Expected | i-FORCE turbo 4 cylinder and i-FORCE MAX hybrid carry over |
| Pricing | Expected | Small increase over 2026 |
| Release date | Expected | Late 2026 to early 2027 |
| Design changes | Not expected | Exterior and interior should stay the same |
We will update this table as soon as Toyota publishes the full 2027 lineup.
What Is New for the 2027 4Runner?
The One Confirmed Change: Hot Honey
On July 28, 2026, Toyota announced new colors for its 2027 TRD Pro models. The Tacoma, Tundra and Sequoia TRD Pro get a color called Honeycomb. The 4Runner TRD Pro gets its own slightly different shade, called Hot Honey.
Hot Honey is a bold yellow-gold tone. It replaces Wave Maker, the bright blue that was the 2026 TRD Pro signature color. Toyota gives the TRD Pro a new exclusive color most years, so this follows tradition.
Owner reactions are split. Some love seeing a bright color after years of gray, black and white SUVs. Others worry a loud color may not age well. If resale matters to you, keep in mind that bold TRD Pro colors are often in high demand among enthusiasts.
What Is Not Changing
The sixth generation 4Runner is still fresh. Toyota usually keeps a new design mostly unchanged for several years, then adds a mid-cycle refresh later.
So for 2027, expect the same:
- Body and interior design
- Engines and transmission
- Trim structure
- Towing ratings
- Safety technology
2027 Toyota 4Runner Release Date
Toyota has not announced an official on-sale date. The 2026 model reached dealers in fall 2025, so the 2027 Toyota 4Runner is expected between late 2026 and early 2027.
If you want to be among the first buyers, ask your dealer to add you to their allocation list. Popular trims like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter often sell before they arrive.
2027 4Runner Price: What to Expect
Toyota has not released 2027 pricing yet. Toyota usually raises prices by a small amount each model year, often in the 1% to 3% range.
Here is the current 2026 pricing, which is the best guide for now:
| Trim | 2026 Starting MSRP | Engine |
|---|---|---|
| SR5 (4×2) | $41,570 | i-FORCE |
| TRD Sport (4×2) | $48,050 | i-FORCE |
| TRD Off-Road (4×4) | $49,990 | i-FORCE (hybrid optional) |
| TRD Sport Premium (4×2) | $53,410 | i-FORCE |
| TRD Off-Road Premium (4×4) | $55,770 | i-FORCE (hybrid optional) |
| Limited (4×2) | $56,200 | i-FORCE (hybrid optional) |
| Platinum | $63,660 | i-FORCE MAX hybrid |
| Trailhunter | $67,700 | i-FORCE MAX hybrid |
| TRD Pro | $67,900 | i-FORCE MAX hybrid |
These prices exclude the $1,495 destination fee. Adding the i-FORCE MAX hybrid to the TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium or Limited costs about $2,800 more. Four-wheel drive adds about $2,000 on trims where it is optional.
Toyota has adjusted some 2026 prices during the model year, so dealer stickers may be a little higher than this table. Always compare the full out the door price.
Engines and Performance
The 2027 Toyota 4Runner is expected to keep both engines from 2026.
| Spec | i-FORCE | i-FORCE MAX Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L turbo 4 cylinder | 2.4L turbo 4 cylinder + electric motor |
| Horsepower | 278 hp | 326 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Highway MPG | Up to 26 mpg | Up to 24 mpg |
| Drivetrain | RWD or 4WD | 4WD only |
The big number here is torque. The hybrid adds 148 lb-ft over the gas engine, and that extra pull arrives early. It helps on steep trails, highway merges and when towing.
The hybrid is not mainly about saving fuel. Its highway rating is actually slightly lower than the gas engine. Think of it as a power upgrade with smoother low-speed driving.
Want to understand how Toyota hybrids work and how to care for one? Our Toyota Explained section breaks it down in plain language.
2027 4Runner Trims Explained
The lineup is expected to stay at nine trims. Here is what each one is for.
SR5
The entry trim. It includes LED lighting, roof rails, 17 inch alloy wheels, an 8 inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense. It is the most affordable way to get a body-on-frame 4Runner.
TRD Sport and TRD Sport Premium
These are the on-road sporty trims. They get sport-tuned styling and handling, and the Premium adds more comfort and tech. They suit drivers who like the look of a 4Runner but spend most of their time on pavement.
TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium
These are the trail trims for most buyers. They add off-road suspension, a locking rear differential and off-road driving aids. The Premium adds upscale comfort features.
For 2026, Toyota made the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism available on the TRD Off-Road Premium with the hybrid. It lets the front sway bar disconnect for more wheel travel on rough trails. That feature used to require a TRD Pro or Trailhunter.
Limited
The Limited is the comfort-focused trim, with premium materials and more convenience features. It suits families who want a tough SUV that still feels upscale.
Platinum
The Platinum is the luxury flagship. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid is standard, along with the most premium cabin in the lineup.
Trailhunter
The Trailhunter is built for overlanding, which means long trips to remote places. It comes with Old Man Emu suspension, skid plates, ARB gear, an onboard air compressor and a high-mount air intake. The hybrid is standard.
TRD Pro
The TRD Pro is the high-speed off-road trim and the one getting the new Hot Honey color. It uses FOX QS3 adjustable internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs, 33 inch Toyo all-terrain tires on 18 inch matte black wheels, a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism, a 20 inch LED light bar, Rigid Industries fog lights and a TRD intake and exhaust.
Both the TRD Pro and Trailhunter sit about an inch higher than the TRD Off-Road, for 10.1 inches of ground clearance.
Which 4Runner Trim Should You Buy?
| If You Want | Best Trim |
|---|---|
| Lowest price | SR5 |
| Daily driver with a sporty look | TRD Sport |
| Best all-around value for trails | TRD Off-Road |
| Trail ability plus comfort | TRD Off-Road Premium |
| Family comfort | Limited |
| Luxury | Platinum |
| Overlanding and camping trips | Trailhunter |
| High-speed desert and trail runs | TRD Pro |
Our pick for most buyers: the TRD Off-Road. It gives you real off-road hardware for about $18,000 less than a TRD Pro. If you can stretch your budget, add the hybrid. The extra torque makes a big difference on both trails and highways.
Towing Capacity
The current 4Runner tows up to 6,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Platinum, TRD Pro and Trailhunter are rated at 5,800 pounds because their heavier standard equipment reduces the margin.
That is enough for a small camper, a fishing boat or a utility trailer. If you tow often, look for the available Tow Tech Package, which adds wiring for an integrated trailer brake controller.
No towing changes are expected for the 2027 Toyota 4Runner.
Common Owner Complaints About the Sixth Gen 4Runner
No vehicle is perfect. These are the most common points that current owners bring up. They are worth checking on your test drive.
- Small fuel tank. Many owners want more range between fill-ups, especially on road trips.
- Rear seats do not fold flat. This matters if you plan to sleep in the back or haul long items.
- Dim interior lighting. Some owners find the cabin dark at night, especially with black interiors.
- Low-speed shift feel. Some drivers report firm or jerky shifts between first and second gear.
- Plastic front bumper cover. Minor parking lot bumps can lead to costly repairs.
- High prices and dealer markups. Popular trims often sell above sticker.
None of these are deal breakers for most buyers. But if one matters to you, factor it in before you buy.
Should You Wait for the 2027 4Runner or Buy a 2026?
For most buyers, there is little reason to wait. The 2026 and 2027 models are expected to be nearly identical.
Buy a 2026 now if:
- You need a vehicle soon
- You find a dealer offering a discount on remaining 2026 stock
- You do not care about the Hot Honey color
Wait for the 2027 if:
- You want the Hot Honey TRD Pro
- You plan to keep the SUV for many years and want the newest model year for resale
- Your current vehicle is still running fine
As the 2027 models arrive, dealers often want to clear 2026 inventory. That is usually the best time to negotiate.
Before Your First Trail Trip
A new 4Runner is ready for adventure, but a quick check before any long trip is smart. Our Owner Guides include an eight point pre-trip checklist for Toyota 4x4s, covering fluids, tires, brakes and suspension.
Need a Third Row or More Space?
The 4Runner is built for capability first. If you need more passenger room for a growing family, a three-row SUV may suit you better.
See our ranking of the best 7 seater SUVs by real space, price and mpg. For a proven used family option, read our 2018 Toyota Highlander review.
Final Verdict
The 2027 Toyota 4Runner is shaping up as a steady carryover, with the new Hot Honey TRD Pro color as the only confirmed change. That is not a bad thing. The sixth generation already brought big upgrades in power, tech and safety.
If you want a 4Runner now, a 2026 model is a smart buy. If you want the newest color and model year, the 2027 should arrive soon with nearly the same price and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Toyota 4Runner redesigned?
No. The 4Runner was redesigned for 2025. The 2027 model is expected to carry over with only minor changes.
What is new on the 2027 4Runner?
The only confirmed change is a new Hot Honey exterior color for the TRD Pro, announced by Toyota on July 28, 2026.
When will the 2027 4Runner be released?
Toyota has not given a date. Based on past timing, expect it between late 2026 and early 2027.
How much will the 2027 4Runner cost?
Toyota has not released pricing. The 2026 model starts at $41,570 before the $1,495 destination fee, and 2027 prices are expected to rise slightly.
Does the 2027 4Runner have a V6?
No. The V6 ended with the fifth generation. The current 4Runner uses a 2.4 liter turbo 4 cylinder, with an optional hybrid version that makes 326 horsepower.
Is the 2027 4Runner a hybrid?
A hybrid is available. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid is standard on the Platinum, Trailhunter and TRD Pro, and optional on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium and Limited.
How much can the 2027 4Runner tow?
The current model tows up to 6,000 pounds, or 5,800 pounds on the Platinum, Trailhunter and TRD Pro. No change is expected for 2027.
What color is Hot Honey?
Hot Honey is a bold yellow-gold color exclusive to the 2027 4Runner TRD Pro. It is a slightly different shade from the Honeycomb color used on other 2027 Toyota TRD Pro models.
Should I wait for the 2027 4Runner?
Only if you want the Hot Honey color or the newest model year. Otherwise, a 2026 4Runner offers nearly the same vehicle and may come with a better deal.
