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Toyota has introduced a new version of its popular 4Runner for off-road enthusiasts. The Trail Special Edition includes several TRD Pro enhancements and LED headlights as well as other rugged features.
The 4Runner Trail Special Edition takes its place alongside the Tacoma and Tundra pickup Trail Editions. Toyota plans to produce 4,000 4Runner Trail Edition vehicles.
A 270-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine delivers 278 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Its Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing optimizes torque across the engine’s operating range.
Based on the SR5 grade, the trail edition is offered in 2WD or 4WD. Both versions feature dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels.
The 4Runner 2WD models feature standard Automatic Limited Slip Differential, a function of the traction control that allows some wheel slippage to help the vehicle dig out from sand or snow. The optional part-time 4WD system uses Active Traction Control and bolsters off-road capability with a 2-speed transfer case with selectable low-range.
By distributing drive force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, A-TRAC can help maintain traction when it senses wheel slippage occurring on terrain irregularities and slippery patches.
The full-time 4WD system that’s exclusive to the 4Runner Limited uses a Torsen center differential with locking feature and a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. The system employs a 40:60 torque split in most driving situations and alters that in response to slippage. In addition, if the front wheels are slipping while the vehicle is turning, the Torsen differential changes the split to 30:70, and if the rear wheels slip while the vehicle is turning, the split changes to 53:47.
The 2021 4Runner lineup now offers LED headlamps for low beams as standard equipment. LED high beams are included on Limited, Nightshade Special Edition and TRD Pro grades. Every 4Runner model also includes LED fog lights as standard equipment.
A sliding rear cargo tray makes it easier for drivers to load and unload gear. A Yakima LoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket gives drivers additional space for gear. All-weather floor liners help contain the outdoor elements and make it easier to keep the cabin clean.
Adventurous souls will appreciate the innovative cooler bundled with the 4Runner Trail Edition. The 40-quart cooler was designed specifically for Toyota and keeps ice frozen up to seven days.
The cooler has a locking lid, tie-down straps, brackets to secure the cooler while driving, bottle openers, durable handles and built-in drain plug. A flaptop acts as a table surface or outdoor seat.
Toyota offers a distinctive choice of colors for the 2021 4Runner Trail Edition: Army Green, Cement, Midnight Black, and Super White. Each of them come with black exterior badging and black seating with tan stitching.
All 2021 4Runner models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, an advanced suite of driver-assist technologies (Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System, Automatic High Beams, and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control).
The newest 4Runner models also include Toyota’s Star Safety System. The safety package offers Vehicle Stability Control with traction control (TRAC, or A-TRAC with 4WD). It also provides Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist and Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.
Standard features of the Toyota 4Runner Trail Edition:
- 2WD or 4WD, in both cases featuring dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels.
- Innovative 40-quart cooler for extended adventures.
- Three-Row SUV to carry friends and plenty of cargo.
- LED headlights for all grades.
- Sliding rear cargo tray.
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense P package.
- Black front and rear Toyota bug and front “4Runner” overlays for extra style and flair.
- Support for Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa.
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