After 15 years of dominating trails with its old-school charm, the Toyota 4Runner enters 2025 with a revolutionary redesign. Blending its iconic body-on-frame DNA with cutting-edge tech, hybrid power, and a staggering nine trims, this sixth-generation SUV is poised to conquer both urban jungles and untamed wilderness. Let’s dive into why the 2025 4Runner isn’t just an evolution—it’s a revelation.
A New Era of Capability
Gone is the outdated 4.0-liter V-6, replaced by a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain delivers smoother shifts and sharper responsiveness. For those craving extra muscle, the i-Force Max hybrid system (standard on top-tier trims) boosts output to 326 horsepower and a jaw-dropping 465 lb-ft of torque, transforming the 4Runner into a torque-rich beast ideal for towing up to 6,000 pounds—a 20% increase over its predecessor.
While the hybrid’s added heft slightly impacts acceleration (expect a 0–60 mph time of around 7.6 seconds compared to the nonhybrid’s 7.0 seconds), its low-end grunt shines during off-road crawls and highway merges. Fuel economy also sees a welcome bump, with EPA estimates hitting 23 mpg combined for hybrid models—a stark contrast to the outgoing model’s thirsty 17 mpg.
Design: Brutalist Meets Modern
Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform (shared with the Tacoma and Land Cruiser), the 2025 4Runner strikes a balance between retro ruggedness and contemporary flair. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter trims flaunt a bold, heritage-inspired grille with prominent “TOYOTA” lettering, while base models retain the classic emblem. Signature design cues like the rear quarter windows and roll-down rear liftgate window remain, offering both style and practicality.
Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the 33-inch all-terrain tires on TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter models, along with ground clearance ranging from 8.1 inches (base) to 10.1 inches (Trailhunter). The latter also features a high-mount snorkel, reinforced underbody armor, and ARB Old Man Emu dampers for tackling technical terrain.
Trim Levels: Something for Every Adventurer
Toyota’s expanded lineup ensures no two 4Runners are alike:
- SR5 ($42,220): The entry point, offering rear-wheel drive and essential off-road tech.
- TRD Off-Road ($50,640): Equipped with Bilstein shocks, an electronic rear locker, and optional anti-roll bar disconnect.
- TRD Pro ($68,350): Fox internal-bypass shocks, a cat-back exhaust, and sport-tuned suspension for high-speed desert runs.
- Trailhunter ($68,350): Built for overlanding with a roof rack, snorkel, and ARB-tuned suspension.
- Platinum ($65,315): A luxury-focused hybrid with adaptive dampers and full-time 4WD.
The Limited trim ($56,850) caters to urbanites with adaptive cruise control and a 14.0-inch touchscreen, while the Trailhunter and TRD Pro appeal to hardcore off-roaders. Notably, the hybrid system adds $2,800 to the TRD Off-Road price but isn’t available on the Trailhunter or TRD Pro models.
On-Road Refinement Meets Off-Road Prowess
Behind the wheel, the 2025 4Runner feels leagues ahead of its predecessor. The archaic body roll and nose dive are tamed by retuned suspension and available adaptive dampers (Platinum and Limited trims). Steering is precise, and the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds—a feat for a body-on-frame SUV.
Off-road, the 4Runner thrives. The Trailhunter’s ARB suspension effortlessly absorbs rocky trails, while the TRD Pro’s Fox shocks excel in high-speed desert blasts. During testing, the TRD Pro launched off jumps with composure, its reinforced chassis shrugging off impacts. The part-time 4WD system (with low range) and electronic lockers ensure traction in mud, sand, or snow, though the hybrid’s battery placement raises the cargo floor and eliminates the optional third row.
Interior: Function Over Frills
The cabin blends utilitarian design with modern tech. Physical knobs for climate controls and a rotary drive-mode selector keep functionality front and center. Higher trims feature a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 14.0-inch touchscreen running Toyota’s latest infotainment software, while base models make do with a 7.0-inch gauge display and 8.0-inch center screen.
Comfort is surprisingly generous: the SR5’s cloth seats are supportive, and the Platinum’s leather-trimmed thrones add ventilation and massage functions. Rear legroom grows by 1.9 inches, accommodating six-foot adults with ease. However, the optional third row ($800) is best reserved for kids—its cramped jump seats lack cushioning and legroom.
Competitive Landscape
The 4Runner’s 42,220–42,220–68,350 price range places it against:
- Ford Bronco ($39,995+): More customizable but less refined.
- Jeep Wrangler ($33,890+): Superior rock-crawling chops, worse on-road manners.
- Lexus GX ($64,250+): Posh interior but less off-road-focused.
While the Bronco and Wrangler appeal to purists, the 4Runner’s blend of daily-driver comfort, hybrid efficiency, and trail credibility makes it a versatile standout.
Final Verdict on the 2025 Toyota 4Runner
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner masterfully bridges nostalgia and innovation. It’s not the quickest or plushest SUV, but its unmatched configurability, rugged capability, and hybrid option solidify its status as a Swiss Army knife for adventurers. For those seeking value, the TRD Off-Road strikes the best balance, while the Trailhunter and TRD Pro cater to specialists. One thing’s clear: this dinosaur has evolved into a king of the modern jungle.
FAQs: 2025 Toyota 4Runner
1. What’s new for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner?
The 2025 4Runner debuts a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, an optional hybrid powertrain (326 hp), and a redesigned TNGA-F platform. It also introduces new trims like the Trailhunter and Platinum.
2. How much does the 2025 4Runner cost?
Prices start at $42,220 for the base SR5 (rear-wheel drive) and climb to $68,350 for the TRD Pro and Trailhunter trims.
3. Is the 4Runner available as a hybrid?
Yes! The i-Force Max hybrid system is standard on the Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims and optional on others. It adds $2,800 to the TRD Off-Road’s price.
4. What’s the 4Runner’s towing capacity?
All 2025 models can tow up to 6,000 pounds—a 1,000-pound increase over the previous generation.
5. How does the hybrid improve fuel economy?
The hybrid 4Runner earns an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, up from 17 mpg in the outgoing V-6 model. Nonhybrids achieve 21–22 mpg combined.
6. Which trim is best for off-roading?
The TRD Pro (Fox shocks, electronic lockers) and Trailhunter (ARB suspension, snorkel) are built for extreme terrain. The TRD Off-Road offers excellent capability at a lower price.
7. Does the 2025 4Runner have a third row?
A third row is optional on the SR5 and nonhybrid Limited trims, but it’s cramped and best suited for children.
8. How does it compare to the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler?
The 4Runner offers better on-road comfort and hybrid efficiency, while the Bronco and Wrangler prioritize customization and rock-crawling agility.
9. What’s the warranty coverage?
Toyota includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 10 years/150,000 miles.
10. Is the third row worth it?
Only for occasional use. For regular seven-passenger needs, consider Toyota’s Grand Highlander or Sequoia.
