2010 Toyota 4Runner: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Toyota 4Runner is an all-new fifth-generation redesign. The biggest change is a larger, reworked SUV with a stronger V6, a new off-road-focused Trail trim, and expanded safety equipment.
About the 2010 Toyota 4Runner
5th generation, first year of the redesign
Toyota positions the 2010 4Runner as the rugged SUV in its lineup: tougher and more trail-ready than a Highlander, but more versatile and family-friendly than the FJ Cruiser. Its core appeal is old-school body-on-frame durability paired with usable cargo space, available third-row seating on some trims, and real off-road credibility. Review sources line up with that message: this is the choice for shoppers who want one vehicle that can handle commuting, towing, road trips, and rough trails without turning into a soft crossover.
The SR5 is the everyday version, with flexible seating, a power rear window, and straightforward controls. The Trail is the serious off-road model, with a locking rear differential, low-speed Crawl Control, and terrain settings, while the Limited adds heated leather seats, push-button start, JBL audio, and a road-focused suspension.
What changed, by category
2010 Toyota 4Runner specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.7 Liter / V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17–18 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22–23 mpg | 22 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 157–270 hp | 270 hp | 270 hp |
| Torque | 178–278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 5000 lb | 5000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 42.2 cu-ft | 42.2 cu-ft | 40.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in |
| Seats | 7 | 5 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2010 Toyota 4Runner fully redesigned?
Yes. The 2010 4Runner was the first model year of the fifth generation, with a redesigned truck-based body, a larger cabin, a reworked cargo area, and updated engines.
What engines does the 2010 Toyota 4Runner have?
Most 2010 4Runners use a 270-hp 4.0-liter V6. A 157-hp 2.7-liter four-cylinder was also offered in the base rear-wheel-drive SR5.
Which 2010 Toyota 4Runner trim is set up for serious off-road use?
The new Trail trim has the strongest factory off-road setup. Its equipment includes four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, low-speed Crawl Control, terrain settings, and extra ground clearance.
What safety equipment changed on the 2010 Toyota 4Runner?
The redesigned 2010 4Runner made eight airbags standard. That total includes new front knee airbags for added protection in a crash.
Did the 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail replace the Sport trim?
The lineup changed for 2010: the Trail trim joined the range and the previous Sport trim left it. The Trail was a distinct off-road-focused grade, not a simple renaming of the Sport.