More and more trucks and SUVs are getting special editions for overlanding. However, the Toyota 4Runner says it’s been there and has done that.
The first Toyota 4Runner came from Japan in 1984. It started as an idea to provide families with a rugged, camping-friendly off-roader once the Land Cruiser FJ40 was no longer imported to America.
Then in 1981, Winnebago partnered with Toyota to build the Toyota Trekker, which pretty much involved placing a camper shell on the Toyota Hilux truck.
The 4Runner name came with a new vehicle style with the go-anywhere versatility of 4×4 without compromising convenience or comfort.
With the first generation, you got two doors, a fiberglass roof over the rear seat/cargo area, and a retractable windshield over the tailgate area.
Though 1989, the 4runner gained more capability and refinement with an independent front suspension, suspension lift, and a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine.
The second generation 4Runner lasted from 1990 to 1995 with more of an SUV-like appearance, the addition of third-row seats, an integrated frame instead of a revocable roof, and rear doors.
The third generation 4Runner existed from 1996 until 2002. This is when it found its modern niche and the body was redesigned to improve functionality.
The current or fight generation launched in 2010 and we’re waiting to see the sixth generation debut in 2025.