5G 4Runner vs 6G 4Runner: The Ultimate Car Camping Comparison

If you’re passionate about overlanding, car camping, and getting the most out of your SUV, you’ve probably asked: How does the 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner stack up against the new 6th Gen for car camping? And more importantly — how well does the Pacific Adventure Works Hideaway Sleeping Platform fit in each?

In this detailed comparison, we break down the key differences between the 5G 4Runner and 6G 4Runner, highlight their strengths for outdoor adventure, and explain why the Hideaway Sleeping Platform is one of the best car camping upgrades you can add.

 

Car Camping Performance

5th Gen 4Runner: Tested & Proven

The 5th Gen Toyota 4Runner has been the go-to platform for overlanders and car campers for years and is one of the most popular vehicles our customers drive. Its body-on-frame design, high ground clearance, and available 4WD options make it capable on rough trails and remote campsites alike. Plus- its a Toyota- and will likely treat you well for hundreds of thousands of miles. Our old Toyota Landcruiser has 340,000 miles (so far).

Why campers love it:

  • Large, flat cargo area perfect for sleeping setups

  • Tons of aftermarket accessories

  • Holds its value

The Hideaway Sleeping Platform fits seamlessly in the 5G cargo bay — maximizing storage while providing a comfortable sleep surface. All sizes of the Hideaway fit, but keep in mind that if using the XL you'll need to raise it up to clear molded in arm wrests for the third row. Select your leg kit based on a 2-row, 3-row, or Cargo Tray configuration.

Key benefits:

  • Full cargo space utilization

  • Easy installation

  • Robust support for gear and sleeping pad

 

6th Gen 4Runner: Modern Capability

Back feat folds flat in 2025 4Runner 6th Gen (Hybrid & Non-Hybrid) | 2025+ 4Runner Forum (6th Gen) Community - 4Runner6G.com

The 6th Gen Toyota 4Runner, released for the 2026 model year, brings updated technology, improved ergonomics, and smarter off-road systems. While Toyota has kept the spirit of the 4Runner alive, there are a few notable changes that car campers should know:

What's new:

  • Updated cargo layout

  • Powertrain improvements with hybrid option

  • Optional modular cargo features

These refinements enhance day-to-day usability and trail performance, but they also mean the cargo area dimensions have shifted slightly compared to 5G. The biggest issue being a huge rise going from the trunk floor to the folded seat back. Shown above is the non-hybrid version, with the hybrid version's trunk floor raised about 4".

Can you sleep in the back of a 6G 4Runner? Yes. With the Hideaway's adjustable legs you can easily accommodate this big hump and sleep comfortably above your gear. The 6G 4Runner fits the Hideaway Sidekick, Single, and Double.

 

Final Verdict: Which 4Runner Is Best for Camping?

If you’re serious about car camping — maximizing comfort and utility without compromising trail readiness — the Hideaway is one of the top camping upgrades you can make.

  • Choose a 5G 4Runner if you want a proven platform with massive aftermarket support and a Hideaway fit that’s ready to go.

  • Choose a 6G 4Runner if you want the latest Toyota tech, refined cargo layout, and an updated Hideaway fit optimized for the new interior.

Either way, pairing your 4Runner with a Hideaway Sleeping Platform transforms your rig into a versatile, comfortable car camping machine.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Pacific Adventure Works is a brand born out of a passion for the great outdoors. We’re a small company with big dreams—committed to responsibly making high-quality gear that lasts while minimizing our impact on the planet. Our goal? To make your outdoor adventures a little more comfortable and a lot more memorable—one trip at a time.

The Hideaway Sleeping Platform is a vehicle sleeping platform designed to create a comfortable, elevated, and adjustable sleeping surface inside your car, SUV, or truck bed. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and requires no permanent modifications—giving you the freedom to camp wherever the road takes you.

Yes! The Hideaway Sleeping Platform comes with a 7-year warranty. For full details, refer to our warranty page.

You can reach us in a few ways:
• Visit us: 1336 Brommer St. Ste A1, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
• Email: info@pacificadventureworks.com • Call: 831-200-3490 (P.S. a real person will actually answer!)
• Or fill out our contact form and we’ll get back to you shortly!

We offer free ground shipping on all U.S. orders—except for Alaska and Hawaii.

We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return. To be eligible, your item must be in the same condition you received it—unused and in its original packaging. You’ll also need proof of purchase. To start a return, visit our returns page for more details.