The facelifted 2014–2024 Toyota 4Runner 2WD (chassis code GRN280) is a midsize, body-on-frame SUV with rear-wheel drive. It sits above compact crossovers in Toyota’s lineup and below full-size body-on-frame models, offering traditional truck underpinnings with an everyday-usable cabin. Every 2WD 4Runner in this era uses the 1GR-FE 4.0-liter V6 (270 hp) and a 5-speed automatic, backed by a ladder frame, double-wishbone front suspension, and a coil-sprung solid rear axle. The 2014 refresh brought updated styling and interior tech, and later model-year updates added modern active-safety features while keeping the mechanical formula largely unchanged. This guide covers the 2WD variant only: what it is, how it’s built, how it drives, running costs, common issues, safety performance, and the smartest ways to spec and shop one from model years 2014 through 2024.
Fast Facts
- Durable body-on-frame SUV with simple, proven RWD driveline; tow-rated to 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) with proper equipment.
- Robust 1GR-FE V6 (timing chain) and stout Aisin A750E 5-speed automatic; easy long-term serviceability.
- Practical, boxy cargo area: ~47.2 cu ft (1,337 L) seats up; ~89.7 cu ft (2,540 L) seats down; roof rails standard on many trims.
- Caveat: modest fuel economy by modern standards; larger tires/racks further reduce mpg.
- Typical service rhythm: 0W-20 oil every 10,000 miles / 12 months (severe use: 5,000 / 6).
What’s inside
- 4Runner 2WD overview
- Specifications and technical data
- Trims, options, and safety
- Reliability and service actions
- Maintenance and buyer’s guide
- Driving and efficiency
- How it compares to rivals
4Runner 2WD overview
The 2014–2024 4Runner 2WD keeps the fifth-generation truck fundamentals and deletes the transfer case, yielding a simpler, lighter package than its 4×4 siblings. You still get a boxed ladder frame, IFS up front, and a four-link solid axle in the rear for durability, interior volume, and predictable towing manners. The 2WD driveline is rear-wheel drive with an open rear differential and brake-based traction control (“Auto LSD” function via stability control) for low-μ launches. For buyers in temperate climates who don’t regularly tackle trails or deep snow, this configuration offers most of the 4Runner’s practicality without the cost, weight, and maintenance of 4×4 hardware.
Under the hood, Toyota’s 1GR-FE V6 uses dual VVT-i, port injection, and a timing chain. Rated at 270 hp (201 kW) and 278 lb-ft (377 Nm), it pairs to the Aisin A750E 5-speed automatic. The transmission’s logic is deliberately conservative to control heat and protect the torque converter; the manual gate helps hold gears on grades or when merging. Tow ratings remain 5,000 lb with a 500-lb tongue load, assuming the factory receiver, 7-pin, and trailer-brake controller are in play.
Inside, the 4Runner’s packaging favors square cargo and headroom over a low floor or third-row legroom. Most 2WD shoppers choose the two-row layout, which preserves cargo depth and departure angle; the occasional third row (in specific trims) is kid-sized. Later years add a standard touchscreen with smartphone integration, more USB ports, and crucially Toyota Safety Sense-P (2020+)—bringing automatic emergency braking and radar cruise to a proven but old-school platform.
In short: if you want a rugged, easy-to-service SUV for commuting, road-trips, and light towing—without off-road ambitions or snow-belt demands—the GRN280 2WD is the sensible, lower-cost way to run a 4Runner.
Specifications and technical data
Engine and Performance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Code / architecture | 1GR-FE — 4.0-L V6, aluminum block/heads, DOHC 24-valve, dual VVT-i |
| Displacement | 3,956 cc (4.0 L) |
| Induction / fueling | Naturally aspirated, port injection |
| Compression ratio | ~10.4:1 |
| Rated output | 270 hp (201 kW) @ 5,600 rpm |
| Rated torque | 377 Nm (278 lb-ft) @ 4,400 rpm |
| Emissions / efficiency era | ULEV / Tier-2 Bin-5 / later LEV-III applicability by model year |
| Timing | Chain (no scheduled replacement) |
| Fuel tank | 87 L (23.0 gal) |
| Aerodynamics | Approx. Cd ~0.36 (tire/trim dependent) |
Transmission and Driveline
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Aisin A750E 5-speed automatic with manual gate |
| Final drive | ~3.73 (varies slightly by trim/year) |
| Driveline | RWD (2WD) with open rear differential |
| Traction aids | TRAC (traction control), VSC (stability), “Auto LSD” brake-based function |
| Tow rating | Up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lb); tongue 226 kg (500 lb) with proper equipment |
| Refuel to full | ~87 L (23.0 gal) regular unleaded |
Chassis and Dimensions
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame, coil-sprung solid rear axle |
| Suspension (front/rear) | Double-wishbone IFS / 4-link live axle; conventional shocks (TRD Sport/Limited tune differs) |
| Steering | Hydraulic rack-and-pinion |
| Brakes | 4-wheel discs (front ventilated ~13.3 in; rear ~12.3 in), ABS/EBD/BA |
| Wheels/tyres (typical) | 17-in (SR5/SR5 Premium/TRD Sport), 20-in (Limited/Nightshade); P-metric AT or HT |
| Ground clearance | ~244 mm (9.6 in) |
| Approach / departure | ~25° / ~24° (varies with fascias and tire OD) |
| L × W × H | ~4,830 × 1,925 × 1,790 mm (190.2 × 75.8 × 70.5 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2,789 mm (109.8 in) |
| Turning circle | ~11.4 m (37.4 ft) |
| Curb weight (2WD) | ~1,995–2,120 kg (4,400–4,675 lb) depending on trim |
| GVWR | ~2,767–2,813 kg (6,100–6,200 lb) |
| Cargo volume | 1,337 L (47.2 cu ft) seats up · 2,540 L (89.7 cu ft) seats down |
Fluids and Capacities
| System | Specification | Approx. capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil | 0W-20 (API/ILSAC) synthetic | 6.2 L (6.6 qt) with filter |
| Coolant | Toyota Super Long Life (pink) | ~10.5 L (varies by HVAC) |
| Automatic transmission | Toyota ATF WS | ~10–11 L total (service fill much less; temp-based) |
| Rear differential | 75W-90 GL-5 | ~3.0 L (fill to level) |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 | Fill to mark |
| Wheel lug nuts (torque) | — | 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) |
| Oil drain plug (torque) | — | ~40 Nm (30 lb-ft) |
Performance and Economy
| Metric | Typical figure (stock tyres; 2WD) |
|---|---|
| 0–60 mph | ~7.6–8.1 s |
| Top speed | ~112–115 mph (180–185 km/h), governed |
| EPA fuel economy (examples) | Ratings vary slightly by year; 2020 2WD lists 16/19/17 mpg (city/hwy/combined) |
| Real-world highway @ 75 mph | ~18–20 mpg (11.8–14.1 L/100 km) stock; −2 to −4 mpg with racks/MT tires |
| Payload (max, by trim) | ~612–725 kg (1,350–1,600 lb) |
| Roof load | ~54 kg (120 lb) with OEM rails/crossbars |
Notes: Dimensions, mass, and approach/departure vary with wheels, fascias, sunroof/3rd-row hardware, and options.
Trims, options, and safety
Trims and key functional differences (2014–2024, 2WD availability)
- SR5 (2WD available): Cloth, 17-in wheels, basic off-road geometry, manual-gate 5-speed, Auto LSD, optional third row.
- SR5 Premium (2WD available): Adds SofTex, heated front seats, more convenience features.
- TRD Sport (introduced later; 2WD available): Road-biased suspension tune and appearance cues; retains RWD driveline (no low range).
- Limited (2WD available): 20-in wheels, leather, premium audio, dual-zone climate, features like keyless start; ride tuning biased to highway comfort.
- Nightshade (Limited-based special; 2WD available in many years): Black-out trim.
- 40th Anniversary (2023 special; 2WD available): Appearance package over SR5 content.
Quick identifiers: 20-in wheels and chrome/black-out trims usually indicate Limited/Nightshade; SR5s carry 17-in wheels and simpler fascias; TRD Sport has unique hood treatment and wheels. GRN280 in VIN/build decoding denotes V6 RWD for this generation; door-jamb option codes confirm third-row, audio packs, and appearance packages.
Year-to-year highlights affecting equipment
- 2014 (facelift): Styling, interior revisions, infotainment updates; mechanicals unchanged for 2WD.
- 2019: Incremental infotainment/connectivity tweaks in select trims.
- 2020+: Toyota Safety Sense-P becomes standard (pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive radar cruise at highway speeds), plus larger screens and more USB ports.
- 2022: TRD Sport trim added with sport-tuned suspension; continued availability of 2WD in SR5/SR5 Premium/Limited.
- 2023: 40th Anniversary special edition.
- 2024: Final model year for the fifth generation.
Safety ratings snapshot (applies to the generation and test versions of the era)
- Moderate overlap front, side, and head restraints: generally Good.
- Small overlap front (driver): Marginal in this era.
- Roof strength: acceptable to good depending on build timing.
- Rollover resistance: tall BOF SUVs show higher calculated rollover risk than car-based crossovers; tire choice and load distribution matter.
Always verify by model year and configuration; running changes (e.g., side curtain calibration from 2014 onward) affect applicability.
Safety systems and ADAS
- Airbags: front, front-seat side, full-length curtains (coverage varies with 3rd-row fitment); driver/knee airbag on many years.
- Chassis electronics: ABS with EBD and brake assist; VSC stability control; TRAC traction control with brake-based “Auto LSD” for 2WD launches.
- TSS-P (2020–2024): pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise (primarily high-speed operation).
- Child seats: LATCH outboard in the second row; confirm tether anchor placement if equipped with a third row.
- Calibration notes: After windshield or steering/suspension work, complete steering-angle/yaw sensor calibrations and radar/forward-camera aiming where applicable (TSS-P years).
Towing and hitches
- Factory receiver integrates with the frame; 7-pin connector and brake controller recommended for heavier loads. Respect tongue weight and gross combined weight; a properly set weight-distribution hitch can improve stability—but confirm receiver compatibility.
Reliability and service actions
The 2WD 4Runner’s appeal is mechanical simplicity: no transfer case, no front diff, fewer seals—and a powertrain with a long reputation for durability. Age, climate, and use still dictate wear. Below are issues organized by prevalence and cost severity with symptoms and remedies.
Common (low–medium severity)
- Brake wear/rotor thickness variation: Heavier wheels/tires and heat on long grades can warp rotors. Symptoms: steering wheel shake under braking. Remedy: quality rotors/pads, correct lug torque (113 Nm/83 lb-ft), brake-fluid flush every 2–3 years.
- Suspension consumables: Front lower-control-arm bushings and ball joints, rear links, and sway-bar endlinks wear by 100–150k miles. Symptoms: clunks, drift/wander, inside shoulder tire wear. Remedy: OE-quality arms/joints; torque bushings at ride height; align afterward.
- Interior switchgear and window regulators: Occasional slow windows or intermittent switches at high mileage. Remedy: clean/replace switch, service regulator.
- Battery and charging: Heat and accessories shorten 12-V life (4–6 years typical). Remedy: annual load test after year four; verify alternator output under load.
Occasional (medium severity)
- Water pump seep/leak: Pink crust at weep hole 90–140k miles. Symptom: slow coolant loss, dried SLLC residue. Remedy: new pump, fresh SLLC, inspect idlers/belt.
- Rear axle seals and differential seepage: Age and thermal cycling harden seals; dust can clog breathers. Symptoms: damp backing plates/housing. Remedy: renew seals, clean/replace breather, refill 75W-90 GL-5.
- Wheel bearings (rear): Less common than on 4×4 fronts, but high load/heat can age them. Symptoms: speed-related growl or play. Remedy: hub/bearing service.
Less common (can become high severity if ignored)
- Transmission heat/aging ATF under towing: The A750E is robust but heat ages WS fluid. Symptoms: shift flare, dark odor. Remedy: conservative tow speeds, downshift to keep converter locked, add auxiliary cooling only with proper plumbing; shorten ATF service interval.
- Exhaust manifold gasket leak or hairline cracks: Symptoms: ticking on cold start. Remedy: gasket/manifold replacement, hardware renewal.
- Frame and hardware corrosion (salt states/coasts): Better than many peers but still vulnerable at rear crossmembers and brake/fuel lines. Remedy: thorough under-wash, inspect annually, treat surface corrosion early.
Electronics / software
- TSS-P calibrations (2020+): After glass, bumper, or alignment work, ensure radar/camera aiming and steering-angle yaw calibrations to avoid false alerts or disabled features.
- ECU/TCM flash updates: Address drivability diagnostics more than major faults; verify latest calibration during scheduled service.
Recalls, TSBs, and extended coverage
- This era saw multiple targeted recalls and campaigns across Toyota’s portfolio. Items affecting some 4Runners include fuel-pump supplier actions and accessory/installation corrections. The only reliable way to confirm is to run a VIN and review completed actions.
- Verification: Use the official VIN recall check and keep dealer-stamped records. Ask for printouts of campaign completion where possible.
Pre-purchase checks (2WD-specific emphasis)
- Rear differential and axle seals for leaks; confirm clean breather.
- Cooling system: look for pink residue around pump and radiator seams.
- Brakes and rotors: freeway-speed test for shimmy; measure rotor thickness/runout.
- Suspension: ball joints, bushings, shocks; watch for “porpoising” on undulations.
- Electronics: TSS-P functions (2020+), camera clarity, radar-cruise operation.
- Evidence of overloading: hitch wear, rear spring sag, uneven rear tire wear.
- VIN recall report and complete service history (fluids, plugs, coolant, brake fluid).
Maintenance and buyer’s guide
Practical maintenance schedule (time/distance = whichever comes first)
- Engine oil & filter (0W-20): 10,000 miles / 12 months; 5,000 / 6 if severe use, short trips, or dusty/off-road. Capacity ~6.6 qt (6.2 L).
- Engine air filter: inspect at 15,000 miles; replace 30,000–45,000 (earlier for dust).
- Cabin filter: 12 months / 15,000 miles; sooner with allergens/dust.
- Coolant (Toyota SLLC pink): first at 100,000 miles / 10 years, then 50,000 / 5 thereafter.
- Spark plugs (iridium): 120,000 miles / 12 years; inspect coils/boots.
- Serpentine/aux belt & hoses: inspect annually from 60,000; replace 90,000–120,000 or at first cracking/noise.
- Automatic transmission (ATF WS): brochure “lifetime,” but for longevity 60,000–90,000 miles drain-and-fill is prudent, sooner if towing/hot climate. Follow temperature-based level setting.
- Rear differential (75W-90 GL-5): 30,000–60,000 miles depending on tow/load; verify breather.
- Brake fluid (DOT 3): 24–36 months; test for moisture if unknown.
- Brakes: inspect every rotation; replace rotors when below spec or with significant thickness variation.
- Tyre rotation: every 5,000–7,500 miles; maintain pressures around ~35 psi adjusted for load.
- Alignment check: yearly; immediately after any suspension work/pothole hits.
- 12-V battery: load-test annually after year 4; typical life 4–6 years.
- Body/drains: clean sunroof/tailgate drains; under-body wash after salt/sand.
- Timing chain: no fixed interval—monitor for noise, correlation codes, or metal in oil; address guides/tensioner only when out of spec.
Fluid specs, capacities, and essential torques (quick reference)
- Engine oil: 0W-20, ~6.6 qt (6.2 L) with filter; drain plug ~30 lb-ft (40 Nm).
- ATF: Toyota WS only; temp-verified fill.
- Rear differential: 75W-90 GL-5, ~3.0 L to fill level.
- Brake fluid: DOT 3.
- Wheel nuts: 83 lb-ft (113 Nm) (re-torque after wheel service).
Buyer’s guide: what to seek/avoid (2WD focus)
- Best value commuter/tourer: SR5 or SR5 Premium 2WD—lower buy-in, 17-in tires for ride and brake longevity, fewer heavy options.
- Highway comfort & features: Limited 2WD—quieter tire options, leather, more amenities; watch 20-in wheel ride/rotor wear on rough roads.
- Sporty look / daily use: TRD Sport 2WD—road-biased tuning; confirm the suspension feels tight and tires are matched.
- Consider avoiding: examples with oversized wheels, heavy roof racks, or leveling kits installed without geometry correction—these raise braking distances and wear front-end parts.
- Budget for reconditioning: tires (age out ~5–6 years), pads/rotors, shocks/struts by 100–150k, water pump, belts/hoses, and possibly a 12-V battery.
Durability outlook
A stock, well-maintained 2WD 4Runner commonly exceeds 200–300k miles on original long-block and transmission. The key is fluid discipline, brake/rotor management, and keeping corrosion under control where applicable. Parts support is excellent and independent-shop familiarity is high.
Driving and efficiency
Ride, handling, NVH
On 17-inch wheels with P-metric all-seasons or mild ATs, the 2WD 4Runner rides firmly yet remains controlled, taking advantage of long wheel travel and compliant sidewalls. The solid rear axle introduces some hop on broken pavement when unladen, but highway composure is good. Steering is medium-weight and consistent; on-center feel is relaxed. Brakes are predictable provided rotors are healthy; spirited mountain descents benefit from manual-gate downshifts to manage temperatures.
Powertrain character
The 1GR-FE V6 favors linear response over drama. There’s useful midrange, and the A750E prefers early upshifts in normal driving to protect the converter and keep revs down. Selecting a lower gear pre-emptively (4th or 3rd) markedly improves passing response and downhill control. Compared with the 4×4, the 2WD feels slightly lighter on its feet and marginally quieter (less driveline noise).
Real-world efficiency
Most owners see 16–18 mpg mixed and 18–20 mpg at a steady 70–75 mph on stock tires and no roof gear. Add a roof basket, lift, or aggressive AT/MT tires and expect 2–4 mpg lower. Cold weather short trips and idling push city figures into the mid-teens. For long freeway hauls at moderate speeds and with careful packing, mid- to high-teens are realistic.
Key metrics (what changes the verdict)
- 0–60 mph: high-7s to low-8s depending on tire and load.
- 50–80 mph passing: adequate; pre-select 4th for immediate response.
- 100–0 km/h braking: straight and consistent with quality pads/rotors; tire compound and vehicle weight dominate outcomes.
- Turning circle: ~37.4 ft—useful for city parking and tight trailheads.
Traction and control (2WD specifics)
In rain or loose surfaces, TRAC will brake a spinning rear wheel to imitate a limited-slip (“Auto LSD”). It’s effective for boat ramps and wet intersections but cannot match a real mechanical LSD. Snow-belt drivers should pair quality winter tires with prudent throttle and gear selection; if you regularly contend with snowpack or two-track trails, the 4×4 variant is the better tool.
Load and towing
A properly set 2WD 4Runner tows confidently to its 5,000-lb rating with trailer brakes. Use the manual gate to keep the converter locked (often 4th on grades), monitor tire pressures, and leave headroom for GCWR. Expect +30–50% fuel use when towing a boxy camper at freeway speeds; road-trip range will be driven by the 23-gal tank and wind.
How it compares to rivals
Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK2, RWD, 2014–2021)
- Pros: More refined on-road, available V8s and air suspension, nicer interior.
- Cons: Unibody architecture limits tolerance for heavy armor and hard use; some powertrain/electrical gremlins in early years.
- Take: If you value ride/quiet and V8 torque, WK2 shines. For long-term simplicity and parts costs, the 4Runner stays compelling.
Ford Explorer (5th/6th gen, FWD-based)
- Pros: Better EPA ratings, roomier third row, family tech.
- Cons: No low-range option; not built for sustained rough-road abuse or heavy aftermarket armor.
- Take: A great appliance for pavement duty; the 4Runner is the pick for durability and towing on dirt.
Honda Passport (RWD-biased AWD, unibody)
- Pros: Strong V6, quiet cabin, more efficient.
- Cons: Lower tow capacity in many configs; off-road hardware is limited; cargo shape less square.
- Take: A comfortable road-trip machine; the 4Runner wins for frame strength and accessory ecosystem.
Chevrolet Blazer / Toyota Highlander (unibody crossovers)
- Pros: Efficiency and on-road manners.
- Cons: Towing and rough-road durability.
- Take: If mpg and infotainment top your list, choose these; if you intend to keep a truck a decade and add racks/gear, the 4Runner 2WD remains attractive.
References
- Gas Mileage of 2020 Toyota 4Runner 2020 (EPA Ratings)
- 2014 Toyota 4Runner 4-door SUV 2014–2024 (Safety Rating)
- 2014 4Runner – Owners’s Manual 2014 (Owner’s Manual)
- Vehicle Detail Search – 2014 TOYOTA 4RUNNER SUV AWD 2014 (Recall Database)
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes and isn’t a substitute for professional diagnosis, safety inspections, or OEM repair procedures. Specifications, torque values, intervals, and procedures can vary by VIN, trim, and equipment. Always confirm against your vehicle’s official Toyota service documentation and current technical bulletins before performing work.
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