Make Way for a Much Brighter 2021 Toyota 4Runner

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Submitted by Jeff Teague on November 1, 2020 - 8:48AM

Look for a brighter 2021 4Runner this year. Fans are reacting about the change in interesting ways.

Toyota has some pretty exciting news for 4Runner fans and enthusiasts this 2021 model year. No, 4Runner is not being redesigned. This will happen soon, but not just yet.

Along with a new trim level, Toyota 4Runner has added an important new feature that improves safety, maintenance costs over time and in the looks department.

Even Fonzie would find this cool.

2021 Toyota 4Runner changes

The big update coming for 2021 4Runner is the addition of LED headlights to all grades. Yes, you heard that correctly. This is something 4Runner fans have been suggesting for many years. This is just one of a few big changes coming.

I should know. I used to get comments from Toyota enthusiasts all the time on the topic. I still do.

Just look at some comments from viewers of my “Toyotajeff” YouTube channel (by the way, feel free to subscribe if you have not done so already. I have filmed over 750 Toyota review and how-to videos for your viewing pleasure).

“These LEDs are great!” Exclaimed Analy.

“I’ll take the LED lighting honestly. Especially for safety on a country back road where you cannot really see well unless you’ve got your high beams on.” Explained VolvoMan92.

2021 4Runner LED lights

Robert commented. “Headlights are so important especially as you age.”

SoWhat said, “Yellow lights look ‘manly’ if it makes sense.” We have a halogen fan here folks.

Eric had this to say. “Halogen lights suck! My 2019 Tundra has the LEDs. I’ll never go back…EVER.”

“Just bought a 2021 SR5 a week ago. The LED headlights are a huge upgrade.” Said a happy ProJohn13.

Andrew Automotive had his own thoughts. “LEDs are better in almost every way. However, they usually do not get warm enough to melt snow and ice on your headlights. At least the high beams are halogen.”

“Just purchased 2021 Limited. These new LED lights are wiiiiiiideee! Love em! Wish they came with LED high beams too.” Wished Nimaai108.

Let there be light for 2021 4Runner

These last few comments are important because many people want to know how the LED lights are configured in this model year 4Runner.

2020 4Runner halogen lights

LED headlights are standard on all trim levels for 2021 4Runner. This is an upgrade from traditional halogen lights.

All trim levels come standard with LED fog lights, which is also a monumental improvement in my mind.

There are only LED high beams on specific 2021 Toyota 4Runner trims. These include Limited, Nightshade Edition and TRD Pro.

Benefits of vehicle LED lights

Halogen bulbs are classic and are the most common type of light found in cars, trucks and SUVs. They are easy to find in local parts stores, simple to install and easy on the wallet as well.

But they do come with some drawbacks. Some people find they do not last a long time, are dim compared to modern lighting and are not as durable.

Meet an LED light.

LED is a nice acronym for Light-Emitting Diode, and this type of lighting comes with many practical benefits.

VIDEO: Compare halogen vs LED lights with Toyota 4Runner.

Drivers with LED lights in their vehicle can often see better, especially at nighttime. LED lights can shine farther and wider and taller than halogen bulbs. I am thinking of dark country roads where it will now be easier to spot deer by the side of the road.

Or to see walkers or joggers or cyclists during early mornings, at dusk and at night.

LEDs last a long time, which makes for simpler maintenance and lower cost over time. For many people, LED lights in their vehicles will never need replacement.

A 2021 Toyota 4Runner owner may find their new LED lights are more durable, more efficient and frankly cooler than halogens.

Other 2021 Toyota 4Runner updates

Look for other changes coming to 2021 4Runner as well. Trail Special Edition 4Runners will be here soon. Also, Lunar Rock has replaced Army Green as the exclusive TRD Pro color for 2021 4Runner, 2021 Tacoma, 2021 Tundra and 2021 Sequoia.

Related: Compare RAV4 TRD Off-Road vs 4Runner TRD Pro in Lunar Rock.

Army Green color will now be available for 2021 4Runner Trail Edition.

Time for your thoughts about 2021 4Runner

Thanks for reading everyone.

Are you fan of LED lights or would you rather your vehicle come with halogen lighting? What advantages do you see with LED for you and your family?

Also, are you in the market anytime soon for a new 4Runner or another Toyota? What do you have your eye on?

See you next story when I discuss key highlights for 2021 Tacoma TRD Sport.

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Submitted by 2020 model yea… (not verified) on November 1, 2020 - 5:18PM

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Will Toyota offer them as a part install on previous models. The 2019 and 2020 should of had them standard.

Submitted by Malarky (not verified) on November 2, 2020 - 7:55AM

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You don’t have to buy a all new 4 runner to get new headlights. Haha. Just install some. I have HID low beams and LED high beams & fog. And yes it’s worth the upgrade.

Submitted by Chupcabra (not verified) on November 2, 2020 - 8:21AM

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Really? They only put LEDs on the low beams and cheaped out with halogens on the high beam? On a $40,000 vehicle? As cheap as LEDs are I can't believe Toyota was this frugal. These days there's no excuse for not putting LED headlights on everything (Jeep, I'm looking at you here).

Submitted by 4runnerowner (not verified) on December 23, 2020 - 6:38PM

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At this rate the 2033 4runner will get blind spot monitoring indicator, exciting. They could have done all of this year ago.

Submitted by Ed (not verified) on December 29, 2020 - 12:20PM

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I don’t think that this information is correct. Not “all” trim levels of the 2021 4Runners come with LED headlights. My 2021 Trail Edition did NOT come with LED headlights. Only LED fog lights that were installed at the port.