Do Toyota 4Runners Have 3rd Row Seating?
The Toyota 4Runner is a highly popular SUV known for its rugged design, off-road capabilities, and reliability. However, one of the questions that often arises among potential buyers and current owners alike is: Does the Toyota 4Runner have third-row seating? This feature is important for families or individuals who need extra passenger capacity. In this article, we will delve into whether the Toyota 4Runner offers 3rd row seating, its configurations, and the pros and cons of choosing a 4Runner with or without third-row seating.
Understanding the Toyota 4Runner’s Seating Options
The Toyota 4Runner has been a staple in the SUV market for years. It’s known for offering great off-road performance, but its interior space and comfort are just as important for those who need a daily driver. When considering a Toyota 4Runner for your next vehicle, one of the most important aspects to review is the seating arrangement.
Currently, the Toyota 4Runner is available in a few different trim levels and configurations. However, a critical point to note is that while it does offer a lot of space, not all models come with a third row of seats.
Does the Toyota 4Runner Have a 3rd Row Option?
The answer is yes, but with some important caveats. The Toyota 4Runner does offer third-row seating, but only on certain trims. Specifically, the third-row seat option is available on the Toyota 4Runner’s “SR5” trim with the “Third Row Seating Package.” This option is only available for specific model years, such as the 2020 and 2021 models. The third-row seating option is not offered on the 4Runner’s higher trims like the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro models, which are geared more toward off-road enthusiasts and often prioritize cargo space and durability over passenger seating capacity.
What Does the Third-Row Seating Package Include?
The third-row seating package on the Toyota 4Runner provides two additional seats in the back of the vehicle. This increases the 4Runner’s seating capacity from five passengers to seven. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the third row is relatively tight compared to the front and second rows, making it best suited for smaller passengers or short trips. Here’s a breakdown of what this package offers:
- Two additional seats: The third row allows the 4Runner to seat up to seven people, which is ideal for larger families or carpooling needs.
- Limited legroom: The third row of seats is smaller and offers limited legroom, making it more comfortable for children or shorter adults.
- Foldable seats: To enhance cargo space when the third row is not in use, the seats can be folded down easily.
- Comfort features: The third-row seating comes with basic comfort features, but it doesn’t offer the premium options found in the second-row seats.
It’s worth noting that the third-row seating package does not come standard in most configurations. Instead, it’s an optional upgrade that adds a bit more flexibility to the 4Runner’s passenger capacity.
Benefits of Having a Third-Row Seat in Your Toyota 4Runner
While third-row seating is not always necessary for every driver, there are certain benefits to choosing a Toyota 4Runner with this configuration. If you are on the fence about whether or not to opt for the third-row option, consider the following advantages:
- Increased seating capacity: The most obvious benefit is that the third row allows you to carry more passengers, making it an excellent choice for larger families or those who frequently travel with a group.
- More versatility: Having the ability to adjust between cargo space and passenger space is highly versatile for those who often need both. You can fold down the third row when it’s not needed to open up more room for gear or supplies.
- Ideal for short trips: The third row works best for shorter trips where the extra passengers don’t require extensive comfort. It’s perfect for kids or occasional passengers who won’t mind the limited legroom.
Drawbacks of the 3rd Row Seating in the Toyota 4Runner
While there are certainly benefits to the Toyota 4Runner’s third-row seating option, it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are a few considerations before you decide if this feature is right for you:
- Limited space: The third-row seats in the 4Runner are much smaller than the second-row seats. They are ideal for children or small adults, but long trips can be uncomfortable for taller individuals due to the tight legroom and overall cramped space.
- Less cargo room: With the third row in use, your cargo space is significantly reduced. If you’re someone who frequently needs a lot of trunk space, you might want to opt for a model without the third-row seating.
- Higher cost: The third-row seating package comes with an additional cost, which can make the 4Runner more expensive than base models.
Alternative Options to the Toyota 4Runner with 3rd Row Seating
If you’re set on getting a Toyota SUV but need more space and comfort in the third row, there are other models to consider. Here are a few alternatives:
- Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is another popular Toyota SUV that offers third-row seating across all trim levels. Unlike the 4Runner, the Highlander provides more comfort in the third row, making it a better option for families who need more space.
- Toyota Sequoia: For those who need even more seating capacity and a bigger SUV, the Sequoia is Toyota’s full-sized SUV. It comfortably seats up to eight passengers, and the third-row seating is spacious and suitable for adults.
Both of these vehicles provide better third-row options if comfort and passenger space are a higher priority for you than off-road performance.
How to Add or Remove the Third-Row Seat Option
If you have a Toyota 4Runner and are considering adding or removing the third-row seat, here’s a quick guide:
- Adding the third row: If your Toyota 4Runner did not come with the third row, you can check with your local dealership about the availability of a retrofit package. However, adding a third row aftermarket may not be as comfortable or seamless as choosing it during the initial purchase.
- Removing the third row: If you want to convert your 4Runner back to a five-passenger configuration, the third row seats are removable. This will free up more cargo space and make the interior more spacious for everyday use.
To ensure you make the best decision, it’s advisable to consult with your dealer or a certified technician to understand the costs and requirements involved in either process.
Is the Toyota 4Runner’s Third Row Right for You?
Ultimately, whether the Toyota 4Runner’s third-row seating is right for you depends on your specific needs. If you frequently drive with more than five passengers, the third-row seating can be a valuable addition. However, if you value cargo space or need more room for taller passengers in the back, you might want to consider a different SUV that provides a more spacious third row. You can also explore other Toyota models, such as the Toyota Highlander or Toyota Sequoia, which offer better third-row seating options for families.
Conclusion
The Toyota 4Runner offers a third-row seating option, but it’s not available on every trim. If you want the extra passenger space, you can opt for the SR5 trim with the Third Row Seating Package. However, keep in mind that the third-row is tight and better suited for shorter trips or smaller passengers. If you need more space or comfort, you may want to consider other Toyota models like the Highlander or Sequoia. The choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and how you plan to use the vehicle.
When making your decision, consider your passenger and cargo needs, and weigh the pros and cons of each configuration. Whether you choose the third row or not, the Toyota 4Runner remains a reliable and capable SUV for a variety of driving needs.
This article is in the category SmartBuy and created by EasyCarFix Team