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2016 Toyota 4Runner: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2016 Toyota 4Runner is an infotainment update, led by Entune 2.5 software and smartphone-linked connected navigation for the SR5 and Trail. This is otherwise a light-update year with no redesign or major mechanical overhaul.
About the 2016 Toyota 4Runner
5th generation (2010-2024), third model year after the 2014 styling update.
Toyota positions the 4Runner as a real truck-based SUV for people who want genuine trail ability and everyday usefulness in the same vehicle. Its body-on-frame build, strong V6, standard tow hardware, roll-down rear glass, and serious off-road systems on Trail and TRD trims separate it from softer crossover SUVs. In this lineup, the Limited leans toward comfort and pavement use, while the Trail family and TRD Pro lean harder into outdoor capability.
The SR5 is the practical everyday version, while the Trail and Trail Premium add low-range four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential, and controls for difficult terrain. The TRD Pro is the most specialized off-road trim, with upgraded Bilstein shocks and a heavy-duty front skid plate. The Limited focuses on comfort with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, JBL audio, built-in navigation, and a road-oriented suspension.
What changed, by category
Tech
Every trim received updated Entune 2.5 multimedia software with Siri Eyes Free. The SR5 and Trail gained a standard 6.1-inch touchscreen, premium audio, and smartphone-linked connected navigation.
Structural
Rated towing capacity increased from 4,700 pounds on most trims. The SR5 and SR5 Premium rose to 5,000 pounds, while the Trail, Trail Premium, and TRD Pro rose to 4,900 pounds; the two-wheel-drive Limited also rose to 5,000 pounds.
2016 Toyota 4Runner specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft | Auto, 5-Spd SeqShft |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 21 mpg | 22 mpg | 21 mpg | 22 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 270 hp | 270 hp | 270 hp | 270 hp | 270 hp | 270 hp |
| Torque | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft | 278 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 5000 lb | 4900 lb | 4700 lb | 4900 lb | 5000 lb | 4900 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 89.7 cu-ft | 89.7 cu-ft | 89.7 cu-ft | 89.7 cu-ft | 89.7 cu-ft | 89.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in | 32.9 in |
| Seats | 7 | 5 | 7 | 5 | 7 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Power Side Steps | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2016 Toyota 4Runner compared with the 2015 model?
The 2016 4Runner received updated Entune 2.5 multimedia software across the lineup, while the SR5 and Trail gained smartphone-linked connected navigation through their standard 6.1-inch touchscreens. Most trims also received higher towing ratings, but the engine, transmission, body, and overall trim structure carried over.
Did the 2016 Toyota 4Runner get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2016 Toyota 4Runner kept its 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic transmission. Its body-on-frame construction also carried over, so this was not a mechanical redesign.
Which 2016 Toyota 4Runner trims received connected navigation?
The 2016 SR5 and Trail received smartphone-linked connected navigation through their standard 6.1-inch touchscreens. The SR5 Premium, Trail Premium, TRD Pro, and Limited had built-in navigation systems with updated Entune 2.5 software.
How much can a 2016 Toyota 4Runner tow?
The 2016 Toyota 4Runner is rated to tow either 4,900 or 5,000 pounds, depending on trim and drivetrain. The SR5 and SR5 Premium are rated at 5,000 pounds, while the Trail, Trail Premium, and TRD Pro are rated at 4,900 pounds; the two-wheel-drive Limited is also rated at 5,000 pounds.
Is the 2016 Toyota 4Runner meaningfully different from the 2015 model?
Only slightly. The 2016 model is most relevant for its newer infotainment software, connected navigation on the SR5 and Trail, and higher towing ratings on most trims; its core design and mechanical package are otherwise much the same as the 2015 model.
2016 Toyota 4Runner Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Toyota 4Runner.
4.3
2016 Toyota 4Runner
(309 reviews)
“I am very happy with my purchase and the options I selected for my 2016 4Runner. I can't think of a single thing that I am unhappy with after owning it for 1 year. Drives smooth, has lots of room, and still has horsepower even when it is fully loaded. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone with a growing family.”
“The 2016 4Runner TRD pro is one of the most capable and reliable cars you can own. Although a little sluggish, it's more than capable off the pavement and will bring smiles every drive. It's a looker and will be hard for Toyota to top this generation. Wish it had a 6-speed, Apple play and better fuel economy but the advantages far outweigh any negatives.”