The Toyota 4Runner's lore is built on off-road adventure, sure. But it's also about that power window in the liftgate. What's the most important feature on a Toyota 4Runner? Is it a removable roof? No, Toyota got rid of that after the first generation, one and done. Is it four-wheel drive? Nope. The standard SR5 is rear-drive, so it's more like a 2Runner.
The most crucial 4Runner attribute, its defining feature, isn't strictly necessary or even particularly useful, but imbues the Toyota's Tacoma-adjacent SUV with a certain undefinable cool that eludes competitors. If there were a Family Feud category called "What makes a 4Runner?" the survey says the number one answer would be—the power rear window.
View Price on AmazonI'm not sure why the power-operated hatchback glass is so compelling, but if I see a 4Runner with the rear window down—ideally with a couple of dogs peeking their heads out—I have to be chained down like a werewolf during a full moon to keep from rushing to the nearest Toyota dealer to put down a deposit. It's just that cool. Somehow, the roll-down rear window says adventure. You could poke a surfboard out through there, or fishing poles, or skis.
See all results for new 2027 Toyota 4Runner for sale near 02108. I think part of the 4Runner window attraction is that it's a rare feature, and one surprisingly difficult to execute. For one thing, power hatch glass dictates the shape of the rear end, since the glass has to be (mostly) flat and the lower part of the liftgate must accommodate the lowered window, along with the motor and regulator assembly.
Take a look at the latest Sequoia, which lost its power rear window in the 2023 redesign. The flush rear window looks sleek, but there's clearly no way to roll that thing down into the liftgate. Yes, the Sequoia's rear glass opens by flipping upward, but that's just not the same. Jeep Wrangler hardtops do that. Engineering a window that disappears, with proper sealing, a defroster, and a wiper, is way harder to execute.
Source: caranddriver.com
