PART 1: ENGINEER EXPLAINS WHY TOYOTA 4RUNNER HAS BEST QUALITY IN THE WORLD // STILL BUILT IN JAPAN

The Toyota 4Runner is still built in Japan - at the legendary Tahara factory in Aichi. It has a reputation for the best quality in the world, but how did Toyota achieve that with the 4Runner? Automotive Engineer David Chao - who has visited the Tahara factory 8 times - explains how the 4Runner is actually built there and why it has a world-class quality inside and out. The Lexus GX, along with most of other Lexus models, are also built at the Tahara factory. This is Part 1 of the series "Why 4Runner is the best built vehicle in the world."
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, consulting, and strategy. David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean Thinking or Toyota Production System. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.

[@TheSlickmelon]

I am a loyal 4Runner owner over 23 years and 3 generations (3, 4, 5). It is an honor to own and drive a vehicle built in the Tahara factory. Thank you for your wonderful video!

[@Scowlingoverlord]

I’m waiting for my first one .

[@reecec8490]

I just picked up a classic silver metallic 2021 5th gen TRD OFF-ROAD PREMIUM with moon roof used with 7974 miles! Insane find! I’m still pinching myself. Bought it near Seattle at a dealer for $41,500 plus tax and licensing. Sold a 2007 SR5 5 years ago and a one owner 2002 almost 2 years ago. It was a long 2 years with out the luxury of a TOYOTA 4RUNNER IN THE STABLE. MY 2020 TRD PRO TACOMA now has a sibling! Could not be happier. BUY A TOYOTA!

[@jerr2501]

Just picked up my new 2023 4Runner! Very proud and excited to own such a legend. I very much hope that these traditional, high quality ways of manufacturing don’t disappear. Thank you Toyota and Tahara factory for choosing integrity over cost saving.

[@Magnus024]

Just picked up one too a few days ago - first time 4Runner owner

[@drucillafoster5745]

I just picked mines up this week it is so nice I'm almost scared to drive it lol

[@gerardlatournerie6153]

What a wonderful professional engineer, he is a real asset for Toyota 4-Runner

[@thomaslam6821]

Love and appreciate those Tahara workers in Japan! They have made perfect vehicles throughout the years!🙏🙏🙏

[@dano7145]

As an occasional vehicle consumer, I miss the days when the phrase "built like a tank" actually MEANT something. You've shared information about the 4Runner that instantly places it on my short list of "next" vehicles (MPG be damned!). Thanks very much for another uncommonly good video.

[@VTOffRoadAdventures]

We just bought a 15. I absolutely love it. Even the SR5 trim is well equipped, drives awesome, is unstoppable off road, and really does feel like a tank. With 50k miles on it I expect it to be running just as well 10 years from now.

[@bonbons525]

I am pretty sure the 4runner will have a hybrid system in their next gen 4runner. Toyota appears to be transitioning all their models to hybrid. In due time. It would be awesome if the 4runner can get at least 30mpg with a hybrid system.

[@Zapp760]

My 1993 4runner is built like a tank, no lie lol

[@johnchang3807]

Ditched my 2020 tiguan for 2018 rav4 and I felt relieved owning toyota !!

[@paull4013]

My wife and I test drove a bunch of new crossovers to replace her aging minivan. She wanted something (anything) other than another van. We tried Subaru Ascent, Honda Pilot, and the Highlander. We were both turned off by the use of turbo-charged 4 cylinder engines (Toyota and Subaru), CVT transmissions (Subaru), and brand new models (Honda). The prices of these vehicles are so high that we wanted something that would last. We just put down a deposit on a lightly used 4Runner instead - mainly because of the legendary quality of this vehicle. Looking at this video and others like it, I'm glad we made this decision. Hoping to get 300+k miles out of this wonderful machine.

[@chiphill4856]

Great video. I've owned 3 4Runners as well as a Land Cruiser and a Lexus for my wife. I was a product development engineer at Tier 1 supplier Bosch for 8 years. Toyota was my customer and a I can verify that Toyota has a world leading approach to manufacturing and engineering, that is different from other car builders, even in their US plants. We were required to be fully versed in Kaizen principles and methods to produce components that were suitable. ✌🏼

[@westeed1]

How about that Bosch cp4 high pressure fuel pump. Quality.

[@chiphill4856]

@@westeed1 Not familiar with that specific pump other than to know Bosch produced many different pumps. I was involved with the antilock braking and vehicle stability control units.

[@1cesaraparicio]

I knew the 4Runner is a solid SUV that can last many years without any problem but David has explained in details the reason why. Great Video, sir.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@minnesotaimaging9726]

❤thank you Toyota. Our 4 runners and Tacoma’s are critical to the operation of our ranch. They have never been able to be replicated by other manufactures.

[@DearbornJohn]

I just traded in my 2007 4Runner, which I bought new to buy a new 2023 4Runner limited edition , which I'm delighted to be a proud owner. Thank you for your explanation of the production of this fine vehicle. It makes me feel more fortunate yet to know of its origin and the dedication of the long-term employees who built my new baby. Again, thank you 😊

[@Noypi54494]

Very nice tribute and video on the 4Runner and the great builders at Tahara plant. Our stable still includes a 1997 4Runner Limited and 2012 GX460. More than 500k miles combined on them and they still don't have squeaks and rattles. True owner testament to the quality of workmanship and craftsmanship from the experienced Tahara workers. Shout out to them and Thank You from Wisconsin!

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you very much!

[@joem7023]

I'm in Wisconsin as well and am excited to see how my new 4 runner trd off road does in the Wisconsin winters I look forward to it!

[@yo2trader539]

Thank you for recognizing and honoring the TAKUMI members at Toyota's Tahara factory. They are the real craftsman and the most valuable people in the company.

[@TjBruce817]

My wife and I are about 4000 kms into the life of our new 2022 TRD Off Road and we couldn't be happier with our decision. Thank you for the information about the people and the place these vehicles are made. It makes you appreciate the vehicle more knowing about those workers and their commitment to keeping the quality at such a high standard.

[@reidgrandchamp774]

Bought my first 4Runner last week, a 2024 TRD Off Road Premium in Solar Octane. Videos like this made it seem like a no-brainer to grab one of these before they are gone.

[@IWannaBeFamous647]

Just incredible. No vehicles on earth even come close to Toyota not even Honda. I can’t believe people on forums are saying Korean cars are just as reliable 🤦‍♂️ The funny thing is even Korean people buy Japanese cars because they know.

[@westcoast708]

Workers have pride in doing the best possible job they can and u can tell in just driving the 4runner that's its not gonna fail on you ..

[@fisherman1353]

This is one of the best 4Runner reviews I’ve seen on the internet,this is my favorite automobile by far,won’t change it for any other car,proud owner of a 2018 sr5 premium

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@freddy-fq2fp]

Loved my 2018 4runner before it bought it and have loved her ever since. Quality is quality. Wonderful vehicle and I can thank the hard workers at the Tahara plant for their dedication.

[@josefmd]

2017 Cement 4R Pro owner for almost 6yrs now. It's the longest I have owned any vehicle. I am never going to sell it! Like David said, it's the best built vehicle made. Probably will never be surpassed.

[@thomasassim-ita1787]

It's one of my best toyota suv, a very capable off-road vehicle. David your analysis is perfectly correct about the building of this suv👍

[@tedfisk1211]

My 2019 SR5P has 44000 miles on it and many of those miles have been on dirt and gravel roads. The runner has had zero issues and I hope to put at least 400K miles on it. There are many who complain that the 4Runners are dated inside and out, but I don't care. The quality built in to the runner is fine with me as it has been a very dependable vehicle.

[@tuckerhiggins4336]

That's good to hear. I got a 2022 on Feb 28th. About to hit 15k. Probably 1/4 on gravel

[@Lumpygrits76]

I’ve ALWAYS wanted a 4Runner. Back in the 90’s my stepdad bought 2 4Runners. Both in the 150k mile range. He drove them for 6+ years and when sold them they both had well over 300k miles and 1 was really close to 400k miles. 😂 He sold both for the same price that he bought them. I literally just bought mine this past Monday ( 6/12/23 ). I got exactly what I was looking for. The Limited in blizzard white with the brown leather. Picked it up with 6 miles on it. Yeahhhhh there’s a couple things that would be nifty to add to it. Like power folding mirrors and a power lift gate. But those tiny nit picks are just that. And in no way a make or break for me.

[@nickbristol3457]

As a long time 4Runner owner and and my wife a Lexus RX350 driver I really appreciated watching this video. I also have a beautiful 2004 Limited V8 4runner that I absolutely love. It is the very best a vehicle I have ever owned. Thank you David!

[@jamespindera3401]

Very good video. I’ve worked for Toyota in Canada as a Tool and Die maker for over 20 years now. Your description is on point. I spent a few months in Japan over three different trips and had the pleasure of working at the Takaoka and Motomachi plants many times as well as visiting suppliers. Very much agree that 4Runner comes from a plant with a very good reputation. I recently purchased a ‘24 4Runner to get one of the last of the old-school ones. Very happy with its build quality and toughness.

[@williamfreeman6935]

I have a 2008 and 2020 4Runner and I am very pleased with them both. They feel so solid and planted driving down the road and are very capable off-roaders also. Fuel consumption isn't very good but reliability is great so I'll take that tradeoff any day.

[@daniellel256]

2003 and 2020 4runner owner. Agreed.

[@dancacciatore]

David, I'm extremely happy with my 2022 (5th Gen) 4Runner TRD Off Road in Lunar Rock. But that could be predicted since my previous vehicle was a 2011 (also 5th Gen) 4Runner SR5. In 2008, a master mechanic told me exactly what you stated in your video - that Made in Japan still meant something as far as quality. I hope this 2022 TRD Off Road will last as long as my Nikon cameras (also made in Japan).

[@timmiller7589]

Excellent video, David. Thank you for sharing background info on what the Mfg process truly is. There is a difference in worker attitude and pride involved. Further solidifies my choice of next vehicle. 👍

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@LordHaveMercyOnUs247]

@@AutomotivePress yes good video, unfortunately my 2014 Off-road “Premium” paint is peeling, back up camera, moon roof, volume knob, loose screw in the inside the tail gate, have issues and don’t work sometimes. I’m out of warranty and very disappointed in the “quality.”

[@chiphill4856]

@@LordHaveMercyOnUs247 which vehicle do you own with these issues?

[@LordHaveMercyOnUs247]

@@chiphill4856 2013 Toyota 4Runner Premium Off Road 4x4. 1. Volume knob doesn’t adjust up properly. 2. Clear coat paint is peeling off really bad and spreading everywhere now. 3. Moonroof does not open on switch plate 50% of the time. 4. Back up camera doesn’t work 50% of the time. 5. Differential is leaking at the wheel hub. 6. Loose nut came off inside rear hatch and rattles when it is opened and closed. 7. Transmission does not to shift into 5th gear automatically and have to shift in manual mode. 8. USB cover always comes off when opened to plug in cord. Am very disappointed with the long term quality of my 4Runner. I feel like it is no different than other manufacturers as I have had Chevrolet, Honda, and Dodge. All had issues in the long run, but I expected my Japanese built 4Runner to be better and hold up longer than it has. I don’t want to spend another $60k plus for a new 4Runner when it will not hold up in the long term.

[@chiphill4856]

@@LordHaveMercyOnUs247 wow! It certainly sounds like you have a bad example of a 4runner with more than a few problems. Was it bought new or used? How many miles on the clock when you bought It? It sounds like something happened to this vehicle before you got it.

[@victorkonon]

Scotty is proud of this video

[@hstafford078]

It is clear from this video the respect and love you have for the art and effort put into the production of this vehicle. I recently purchased my first 4Runner and your video makes me appreciate it even more. Thank you.

[@sightseeing2]

Excellent video. Really appreciate your knowledge- thank you for sharing it

[@mikemccomas1440]

Totally agree! Our 1990 is still running! Our 2013 saved my wife's life in a side impact. Our new 2021 Premium is best yet! Great review of course we are 4 runner people😊

[@Dawn191]

@Mike McComas , are the side panels doors reenforced with a steel bars like the Subaru?

[@user-tb7rn1il3q]

@@Dawn191 All cars have side impact door beams since the 1970s. A 4Runner is much safer than any Subaru because it has a reinforced body and full frame. In a head on collision with a Subaru the 4Runner will win every time. Crash tests are not real world.

[@drucillafoster5745]

I am the owner of 1 toyota corolla 3 toyota camry 4runner the best vehicles I have ever owned never have any major issues Thanks Toyota for keeping me off the road stranded especially when traveling at night

[@hdbikerdave5835]

Thank you for the very informative information. I bought a new 2006 4-Runner and it has been a real tank. Still running after giving it to my son years ago.

[@orcajet1]

What a great video. Your passion for the engineering work is obvious and shines through. Thank you for this informative video.

[@pgjc756]

Recently bought a 2019 4Runner. I love it. Thanks for this video.

[@mikelig8365]

I just bought a 2024 Forerunner Limited and I plan to keep it for many years. I just retired and think this may be my last rig, and I plan to be around a long time. From1974 FJ 40 Landcruiser, to 1987 FJ 60 to the best of the bunch, the new Forerunner. Toyota keeps getting better and better.

[@nread7]

Morning David. Great video! Just hit 200k on my ‘15 4Runner limited & it is still ROCK solid!! Contemplating ordering one of the last (2023) GX 460’s largely for the silky V8. Keep up the great content! All the Best, Nate

[@michaelc.6306]

♥️ My 2012 Limited. It's around 90k miles, coming up on 11 years old, & just breaking in 😉

[@M5_Sonu]

Yet another amazing and informative video! Thank you!! I absolutely love my Lexus GX 460 from the same factory!

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@dennisjordan9004]

Extremely well built. Thanks for explaining why and where the 4Runner is manufactured. Great video.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thanks for watching!

[@thomasr.1bad21ultra9]

David, no words. It’s no secret I’m a big fan of the 4Runner and waiting on the 2024. I’ve often wondered about the production methods as you always refer to this particular factory as one of if not the best in the world. I appreciate this video in particular, just incredible. Many thanks 🙏

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@ivanidarraga1324]

David, gracias por explicar tan bien el proceso de fabricación de este excelente vehiculo, cada día estoy más enamorado del 4Runner.

[@Rostaman1]

Thank you very much for the reason behind the quality. Lot of video talk about the quality, you provide the proof. Going 4Runner shopping this week and this makes me realize I am making a good choice

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad to help!

[@JAMESWUERTELE]

I bought two of them a 2020, and a 2021. I knew they were one of the best made. I didn’t know they were this good.

[@jerseattle0722]

Excited to see your new 4Runner reviews and vids like this. And the landcruiser

[@JDsModernMartialArts]

Great job! Excellent presentation 😊

[@vincesr5]

These types of videos are my favorite of your content, thank you!

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you like them!

[@SlightReturn666]

We still have our 2009 4Runner limited and it's just a crazy crazy good car. Literally drives like brand new. Has not been in a garage one single night in its life.

[@keithgarland3404]

Very good detailed briefing of the Toyota 4 runner build and information on the factory involved.

[@stevesharpz3692]

My ‘18 Limited still looks and rides like the day I bought it. A big factor in my decision was where it was built, and your video is a testament to that. As MPG cab be the ONLY down side, not having many expensive repairs will more then make up for that:) Another thing I like, is not changing and updating so often…. Get it right and keep it right… too many people want facelifts… you can never track the history of something that keeps changing!!! It was nice to see factory shots, thx for the video

[@thepetesmith]

I’ve driven nothing but 4Runners for the last 15 years. Latest is a 2017. 80,000 miles, ZERO issues. I don’t even know there’s an engine in it. Once you’ve had this type of reliability, I can never go back.

[@mund1photo]

Nicely done and presented as usual, Thank You 👍🏻👍🏻

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@ganapatihegde1024]

Nice auto vlog! Great presentation. It is awesome.

[@DLewis-pc2op]

One of your best videos.........we have two 4 runners...........nice to get the scoop on the building process. Thank you David............

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@alphakilo9066]

I learn something I didn't know in every one of David's videos. Today, I learned about "Takumi Specialists."

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@farside7225]

Ecellant video. Very informative. Makes us appreciate our 2022 even more.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@terp8373]

Great video...super informative explaining why the 4Runner is truly a top-quality product.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thanks for watching!

[@sachinjhaveri2114]

You exude kindness / humbleness in your video. Come across like a person with great skills/knowledge but remains grounded & knows his roots well. I admire you. 4 runner of course is a world renown & I wish this vehicle was available in India. Would have loved to own it.

[@judithvilla6026]

Really enjoyed the details. I liked the way you included other videos to explain the process!

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad it was helpful!

[@claudiacanales2662]

Yeah it was a nicely edited video!

[@markderoller7645]

Great video. I have a 2022 Limited and absolutely love it. Rock solid. Plan to keep it many years.

[@mikewgilliam]

Great video , we bought a limited last night and your video was really comprehensive and ty for your knowledge.

[@kp57_what]

I love this video, make me appreciate my 4Runner even more...

[@alinmoraru5061]

Great video, keep up the good work!

[@ericnexplore]

Very informative, well explained and presented. Thank you for sharing. I really enjoy your videos.

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you like them!

[@stephenwiley117]

Thank you David for your expertise and the detailed knowledge you always give in your videos. I am driving my 4th 4Runner. I currently own the 2022 Limited and plan on driving it past 300k miles. I love the quality, reliability, predicitibility with my current 4Runner. Quality is more important than gas mileage to me. Keep up your great videos. We appreciate them.

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you so much for your comments and sharing your experience!

[@mattg1959]

Excellent review and professional perspective. Thank you.

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you liked it!

[@johngalt7818]

We’ll done. Absolutely the best, and most comprehensive, video I have ever seen on the 4Runner. Thank you.

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@realestateinfonet9041]

Super video! Thanks!

[@sunilshrestha657]

love your video Dave and I love the T4R, probably one of the best truck in the market today!

[@supernoahsark1]

4 runner has been my favorite vehicle for years- this video is well done!

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@antoniorengifo1447]

Excellent explanation thank you!

[@Kamoolti]

Excellent presentation 👏 Thank you!

[@reynaldomartinez4291]

Brilliant review! Terrific product. Thank you!

[@AutomotivePress]

Thank you!

[@rodneyh7693]

Everytime I watch David 4runner video I smiled because I own one :). The most solid vehicle I ever own! Sure its not refined, it is not efficient compared to todays standard, many SUV drives better or more comfortable but hey its never meant to be, It's built to take you on and off the beaten path. A Truly old school 4x4 build quality vehicle that speak for itself. May the legacy continues....4Runner...the last of its kind.

[@waderussell2005]

David, thank you so much for your very informative, and detailed review of the Toyota 4Runner. It is truly inspiring, and offers the professional insight into this remarkable automobile that I truly appreciate.

[@AutomotivePress]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@johnwebb2232]

thankyou for a great video, i have a 2016 trail with KDSS and i am in love with my 4runner, i take it overlanding and it's my daily driver. i am so greatfull for the people who put my 4runner together, thank you again for a great indepth video.

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@billychristmas]

I absolutely love my 2021 4runner. The feeling of solidity that it gives you is unmatched. Same with my 1995 Hiace.

[@seesaikhamphaphirad7365]

Thanks for Sharing the videos and you are very good explaining about Quality built of Luxes ..

[@tinabeane]

Just found you video and subbed. Thanks so much for the insight on the quality of these amazing vehicles. Their attention to details and pride certainly does show in the craftmanship and well know reputation as the best.

[@greggraham2642]

And I thought I was a 4Runner/Toyota/Lexus enthusiast before I watched this. There's a 05 V8 4Runner in my garage with 313,000 miles on the clock that runs amazing. Along with that are two 03 IS300s, one 02 GS430, and a 98 SC300. It's a very cost effective way to run a fleet of cars for five drivers in the family. A Gen 5 4Runner is in the cards for future ownership.

[@jairosoto1578]

Excellent video! ‘Would love to someday visit the Tahara factory.

[@robgreen627]

I have had my 4Runner for a year now. Wow. I dreamed of having one for years and finally did it. Best ride ever. I put a set of mud/snow tires on and it looks amazing. You will not be disappointed. Thanks for the video. I wondered where it was manufactured. I knew Japan but that was all.

[@richardoaks3597]

Love these kind of videos.

[@A5JDZK]

Awesome video. Really good information. Wish we had the same pride and precision in our manufacturing facilities her in the U.S. The factories in Japan definitely have skilled labor. I really like how much pride is involved in the 4Runner and Toyota in general.

[@ryanpatterson9526]

I love quality workmanship! It gives me goosebumps.

[@louiec9534]

thank you so much for sharing all those info!!!! btw i have a limited 4 runner 2017, solid

[@rfrontera042]

Great video

[@philipzivnuska7321]

Outstanding video. Wish I could go with you later this year. Love my 2021 4Runner

[@AutomotivePress]

Thanks! 👍

[@joecassel5174]

Great vid👍👍👍

[@walter.bellini]

Thank you for the great info video I have a Toyota Highlander 2009 and I love it period!

[@mariancybulski]

I drive a 2022 4Runner Limited. Thank you for your video.

[@michaelrosenlof1084]

Very instructive and very well done-Thank you✅👍

[@AutomotivePress]

You are very welcome

[@johnfusaro8978]

Thank you for this excellent video I will be purchasing one as my next vehicle very soon.

[@bigbean78]

I’ve had my 2016 SR5 Premium for just over a year and I’m very happy with it. 91,000 miles and it’s been quiet and rattle free until recently when a small heat shield on the exhaust came loose on one end. I took it to the local indy shop I trust and had my friend there look at it. He said it couldn’t be reattached but it wouldn’t hurt anything to remove it, so that’s what he did and it’s quiet again.

[@dexterm7466]

Love your work, thank you!🙏

[@oswaldosalazar6954]

I like the information you gave

[@HoofHearted2]

This was a very informative video. The dialog kept me interested at all time. Well done! Now if I can just get my hands on the last few Gen5.

[@AutomotivePress]

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

[@greg5856]

Great video! Love the 4Runner 😎

[@MarcusRGrant]

Lovely tribute

[@Onetwothree476]

Great video lots of information thank you very much

[@AutomotivePress]

Very welcome