3-Door Toyota 4Runner Goes Back to Origin, Digitally Hunts 2-Door Bronco and Wrangler Prey

Naturally, everyone has their favorites among the big bunch of introductions. Bigger families might seek an Indiana-born Grand Highlander or TX, those who want a workhorse will probably secure the best-selling Tacoma, and those searching for legends will surely get their Land Cruiser fix. However, for sensible users, the 4Runner might represent the perfect compromise – it has access to both Tacoma powertrains, including the 326-hp hybrid mill, plus it comes with five or seven seats and lots of off-road pedigree.

Alas, there is one major problem with the 4Runner: it doesn't have a compact form factor like its main rivals and is also one of the most important premium competitors. More precisely, there are two-door Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco models, as well as the Land Rover Defender 90. However, even though the 4Runner team is well aware of the five prior generations of heritage, it didn't fully go back to its origins and didn't offer a three-door 4Runner like the original N60 model from 1983. No worries, though, as the imaginative realm of digital car content creators is always ready and willing to rectify any problems or mishaps.

As such, here are the good folks over at the AutoYa info channel on YouTube, who have quickly imagined the CGI looks of the sixth generation 4Runner as if it came with the same body style as the first iteration. The channel's pixel master has spared no CGI expenses on this short-wheelbase off-road SUV and, together with the host, presented ample choice – including the option to choose from a regular five-seat version and an ultra-short two-seat (or 2+2) variant.

Well, if you ask our two cents on the matter, the latter variant, with the 4Runner featuring a long hood and a trunk space that starts above the rear wheel, doesn't make too much sense because it would be highly impractical when trying to haul stuff with you on the trail. The regular five-seat with short wheelbase variant is more logical as it's on par with the Defender 90 and 2-door Bronco plus Wrangler rivals and also offers the choice of hauling five persons on board or just two and a lot of other stuff in the back – including spare off-road accessories and more.

Anyway, speaking of choice, there's also a traditional color reel, and again, the CGI expert certainly outdid itself with a wide array of shades that get showcased on two grades – the off-road-focused TRD Pro with i-Force Max and the ritzier Limited variant. So, which color and trim is your favorite? Also, would you approve of a three-door 4Runner as a way to hunt down the two-door competition, or should this forever remain merely wishful thinking because the Toyota SUV is fine as a five-door-only model? Last but not least, would you give up the 3-door variant if the regular five-door would offer a removable hardtop option just like the Bronco and Wrangler instead?