Toyota gave the fifth-generation 4Runner a facelift featuring a more aggressive look.

For nearly three decades, the Toyota 4Runner has been a key part of the Japanese automakers’ product portfolio.

Now one of a small number of true body-on frame sport utility vehicles left in the market, the 4Runner is getting a facelift and new interior appointments for the 2014 model year, Toyota announced.

Currently in its fifth-generation, 4Runner carries on as a fully capable mid-size SUV. The redesigned 2014 4Runner receives a new exterior design, and interior refinements that add comfort and convenience. They are combined with a comprehensive suspension technology that provides off-road capability with a smooth ride and comfort more often associated with crossovers, Toyota officials noted during an event offering media a look at the updated 4Runner.

Toyota's 2014 4Runner features a variety of interior and exterior upgrades.

The refreshed 4Runner features a redesigned front fascia that conveys a more rugged and aggressive appearance. This includes a new front grille and smoked headlamps that Toyota designers believe provide for a more forceful look.

The 2014 4Runner is available in three grades: a well-equipped, value-driven SR5; top-of-the-line Limited; and a Trail grade for those who want maximum off-road capability. The SR5 and Trail grade models also feature a color-keyed grille insert and front bumper that is surrounded by fog lamps set in s-cut inlays extending from the headlamps down to the bumper.

Consumers will have the choice of a rear wheel 4×2, part-time 4×4 or a full-time, multi-mode 4×4 with a locking center differential. All models are equipped with a powerful four-liter, 270-horsepower V6 teamed to a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner also is one of the few vehicles that continues offer a transfer case.

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In addition to the new grille, the premium Limited’s front design is set apart with a chrome-plated grille insert and chrome front bumper that extends to the fog-lamp bezels. The side molding, roof rack and rear bumper are also chrome trimmed. The headlamps have also changed from halogen to projector beam, with both the headlamps and redesigned rear combination lamps on all 4Runner grades featuring LED lamps.

Both the SR5 and Trail grade ride on 17-inch alloy wheels with a new wheel-design for both, while the Limited continues to boast 20-inch alloy wheels, which are now painted black prior to machining to add contrast.

On the inside, SR5 and Trail grade add standard Soft Touch door trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather shift knob provide a premium feel and atmosphere.

The SR5 also is getting a new Optitron instrument panel that houses speedometer, tachometer, voltage, fuel and coolant temperature gauges. New for 2014 on SR5 and Trail grade 4Runner models is Entune, which includes Toyota’s Entune multimedia system, an AM/FM/MP3 CD player with eight speakers, integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB port with iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and music streaming.

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The 4Runner SR5 and Trail 4×4 models have a two-speed, part-time four-wheel-drive system with neutral position, maximizing fuel efficiency when a 4×4 configuration isn’t needed. The 4Runner Limited is equipped with a full-time, four-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential.

Toyota’s A-TRAC traction control system is standard equipment on all 4×4 models. The system can distribute drive force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, making terrain irregularities and slippery patches virtually transparent to the driver. An electronic-locking rear differential is standard on the Trail grade.