Toyota Adds Off-Road Trims To 2017 4Runner Lineup

2017 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium (Credit: Toyota)

Jeep’s been cleaning up around the world, although you have to wonder how much of that success was fabricated by Fiat Chrysler. Still, Toyota knows there’s a big market for off-roaders, and the FJ Cruiser is now deader than dead. To make up for that fact, it’s releasing two Off-Road trim levels for the 2017 4Runner.

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Sitting between the SR5 Premium and Limited trims, the 4Runner TRD Off-Road and Off-Road Premium are supposed to be all about trail capability. Among the rugged hardware is a Toyota Crawl Control for the Multi-Terrain Select system, plus an electronic locking rear differential.

According to Toyota, the two 4Runner Off-Road trims will have “superior approach and departure angles” but doesn’t supply what they are. Judging by the looks, they’re probably similar to the TRD Pro, or at least I’m hoping that’s the case.

Serious off-road capability comes via an optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (called KDSS for short). It allows for more wheel travel at lower speeds, which is great for traveling on loose terrain like sand or mud. Wheel spin is increased, which actually improves stability. There’s also a Mogul setting that’s designed for slopes and other heavily uneven terrain, limiting wheel slip by working more like a limited-slip differential. It sounds like an interesting technology I can’t wait to try out.

Toyota says pricing for all six trim levels of the 2017 4Runner is coming later in the year before the lineup launches.