The Toyota 4Runner has long been celebrated for its adventurous spirit and robust off-road capabilities. For the 2020 model year, this iconic body-on-frame SUV receives a host of significant enhancements, blending its legendary toughness with modern technology and added safety features. The 2020 Toyota 4runner arrives with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) standard across all trims and a revamped infotainment system boasting a larger 8-inch touchscreen, along with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Adding to the excitement, the 2020 lineup introduces the Venture Edition, a trim designed to amplify both utility and style for those who crave exploration, both on and off the beaten path.
Venture Edition: Built for the Bold Explorer
The 2020 4Runner Venture Edition is specifically tailored for adventure enthusiasts, packing in extra utility and distinctive styling. A key highlight is the inclusion of a standard Yakima Megawarrior roof rack, mounted on robust roof rack crossbars. Constructed from heavy-duty steel, this spacious rack offers substantial rooftop storage, measuring 52 inches long, 48 inches wide, and 6.5 inches high. This feature immediately sets the Venture Edition apart, enhancing its readiness for overland adventures and gear-intensive excursions.
Inside the Venture Edition, practical upgrades continue with standard all-weather floor mats, providing superior protection against mud, snow, and spills. A rear cargo mat is also included, and for even greater cargo management, a rear sliding cargo deck is available as an option. These interior enhancements emphasize the Venture Edition’s focus on functionality and durability.
The Venture Edition also distinguishes itself visually with a series of unique exterior treatments. Gunmetal-colored 17-inch TRD wheels provide a striking and rugged aesthetic. The Toyota emblems at the front and rear, along with the “4Runner” badge on the tailgate, are finished in black, creating a cohesive and aggressive look. Further black accents are applied to the outer mirrors, door handles, and rear spoiler, completing the Venture Edition’s distinctive appearance. While based on the TRD Off-Road Premium trim, the Venture Edition forgoes the TRD Off-Road badging on the C-pillar, opting for a cleaner, more minimalist style.
Trail-Ready Performance and Off-Road Prowess
The foundation of the 2020 4Runner Venture Edition remains its proven body-on-frame construction, featuring a four-link rear axle and coil-spring suspension. This robust architecture is essential to the 4Runner’s legendary off-road capability. It is equipped with a part-time 4WD system, incorporating a 2-speed transfer case with selectable low range. For demanding off-road situations, a selectable rear locker is standard, providing enhanced traction in low range when needed.
Beyond these fundamental 4×4 components, the Venture Edition is equipped with advanced off-road technologies. Standard CRAWL Control assists in navigating challenging low-speed terrain by automatically modulating engine speed and braking force, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering. Drivers can select from five low-speed settings to match the terrain. Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) further enhances traction by intelligently distributing drive force to the wheels with grip, counteracting wheel slippage. Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) offers another layer of traction management, allowing drivers to optimize wheel spin control for various surfaces such as dirt, sand, or rocks. These features combine to make the 2020 Toyota 4Runner Venture Edition a highly capable off-road machine.
Enhanced Safety and Modern Technology for 2020
A significant upgrade for all 2020 Toyota 4Runner models is the standardization of Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P). This comprehensive active safety suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System, Automatic High Beams, and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). These systems work in concert to enhance driver awareness and provide an added layer of safety on every journey.
The interior of the 2020 4Runner receives a technology refresh with an updated multimedia system across all grades. Featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, this system now integrates Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, providing seamless smartphone integration and voice command capabilities. The audio experience is delivered through an 8-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth connectivity allows for hands-free phone calls and music streaming.
The driver’s instrument panel has also been updated with a new design that includes a 4.2-inch MID screen. This screen provides access to TSS-P safety feature settings and displays essential vehicle information such as tire pressure and fuel economy. Rear passengers will appreciate the addition of two USB ports for charging devices. The Venture Edition further enhances convenience with standard Smart Key with Push Button Start.
Inside the Venture Edition, comfort and style are elevated with SofTex-trimmed powered and heated front seats featuring “TRD” lettering embroidered on the headrests. SofTex trim also extends to the second-row seats, providing a premium feel and easy-to-clean surfaces, ideal for active lifestyles.
Comprehensive Safety Systems and Warranty
Beyond TSS-P, the 2020 4Runner is equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System as standard on all models. This suite includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC, or A-TRAC with 4WD), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). These systems work together to provide a comprehensive foundation of vehicle control and stability.
The 2020 4Runner is also equipped with eight standard airbags, including driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, TAP (thorax, abdomen, pelvis) front seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and all-row Roll-Sensing Side Curtain Airbags (RSCA).
Toyota backs the 2020 4Runner with a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering components beyond normal wear and maintenance. Powertrain components are covered for 60 months/60,000 miles, and corrosion protection is provided for 60 months with no mileage limit. Furthermore, ToyotaCare, a complimentary maintenance plan, is included, covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The 2020 Toyota 4Runner successfully blends its renowned ruggedness with modern enhancements in safety, technology, and style. Whether opting for the adventurous Venture Edition or any other trim in the lineup, the 2020 4Runner continues to deliver on its promise of capability, reliability, and versatility, making it a compelling choice for SUV buyers.
