The Toyota 4Runner asserts that it is among the most off-road capable SUVs ever made. It is new for 2025; after we drive it, we will update our preview.
In addition to having a turbo-4 hybrid motor and significantly improved off-road technology, the 2025 4Runner can accommodate seven passengers in three rows. It is large, heavy, rides high, and tows well enough to be considered on par with the Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Jeep Wrangler.
Toyota intends to offer a large selection of 4Runner vehicles. The 4Runner SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Sport Premium will be turbo-4 variants. The TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road (and its Premium companion), the new Trailhunter variant, and the top-tier 4Runner Platinum are the hybrid turbo-4 4Runners that will be available.
Although we have not driven one yet, the significant power and refinement improvements should make it the most peaceful and effective 4Runner in decades. On the TCC Rating scale, last year’s overly long-lived model received a mere 4.8 out of 10. When we test it later this year, we will know more, but we anticipate a two-point lift at the very least. (Read more about our car rating system.)
Since Toyota last updated the 4Runner in 2010, everything about the 2025 model is new, including the turbo-4 hybrid drivetrain, touchscreen-encrusted interior, and bluff snout. Its architecture and operating system are similar to those of Toyota’s latest SUVs, such as the Sequoia and Land Cruiser, as well as its lineup of new trucks, which includes the Tundra and Tacoma.
Despite all of the structural changes, the 2025 4Runner stays true to its SUV heritage. With so many stamped lines and curved angles throughout its body, it nevertheless has a somewhat Transformer-esque appearance. Depending on the model, the Toyota name marches across the nose against a honeycomb grille in a hexagonal shape that sits atop another hexagonal pedestal with either bright or dark trim. The 4Runner appears as though its ribs have been removed thanks to the stylish boxy fenders and trim LED headlights. At the back wheels, a roof pillar bends forward and upward in a single sheet-metal motion, punching out once more. A tailgate with a power-down rear window is embossed with another Toyota name emblem at the back, and the words “4RUNNER” secure the tailgate’s bottom.
Because of the dominance of the 8.0-inch or 14.0-inch touchscreen that dominates the dash, it is easier to determine which era this 4Runner belongs to inside. It is supported by knob controls for climate and volume, and rocker switches and traction system pushbuttons are still integrated into the console and dash rather than being hidden among screen swipes and taps. A grab grip on the passenger side conveys the appropriate vibe, and different variants are upholstered in premium synthetic leather or sturdy-looking plastics. It is the ideal spot to work off-road or to cosplay Sigourney Weaver from Aliens because you have all the levers and controls close at hand.
2025 Toyota 4Runner powertrain and off-road specs
Currently, the 4Runner’s 2.4-liter turbo-4 hybrid engine provides all of its power. Toyota claims that the drivetrain, which is equipped with a 48-kw motor and a 1.87-kwh battery, produces 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.These hybrid models have an EPA rating of 23/24/23 mpg.
Toyota intends to release a non-hybrid turbo-4 later. That engine will produce 317 lb-ft and 278 horsepower.Better-equipped Limited vehicles with 20-inch wheels get a 24-mpg highway rating, while the EPA anticipates a rating of 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. Four-wheel drive reduces its fuel efficiency to 19/25/21 mpg.
All 4Runners have an 8-speed automatic transmission. The base model is a rear-wheel-drive car with an electronic limited-slip differential and a 2-speed transfer case. Both full-time and part-time four-wheel-drive vehicles are planned by Toyota. The latter has an electronic locking rear differential and is found on TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter versions. The Platinum standardizes the center locking differential and full-time system that are available for the 4Runner Limited.
To maneuver more skillfully through road conditions, a variety of drive modes, including Mud, Dirt, and Sand, modify throttle mapping, stability control, and traction-control systems. In this generation, Toyota’s Crawl Control, a low-speed cruise control system, becomes quieter.
Toyota guarantees approach and departure angles of 32 and 24 degrees, respectively, while higher-spec 4Runners include a stabilizer-bar disconnect mechanism that improves wheel articulation under the most extreme driving situations. It states that the SUV’s maximum ground clearance is 9.2 inches, however it does not specify whether that measurement pertains to the suspension or differential housing. To provide a clearer picture of path obstructions, a new view weaves images from the available surround-view camera system.
The maximum towing capacity of the 4Runner is 6,000 pounds.
The 2025 4Runner is estimated by Toyota to be 194.9 inches long and have a wheelbase of 112.2 inches.
In contrast to the larger and more costly Land Cruiser, the 4Runner will include a third-row seat inside. The 4Runner will include a power-operated tailgate glass and the ability to slide its second-row seats forward for easy loading, though no cargo specifications have been made public.
2025 Toyota 4Runner features
Standard automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, and automatic high beam headlights are examples of safety equipment. Additionally, Toyota has a driver-assist system that uses the brakes to slow down a car that is closing too fast into tight turns or into oncoming traffic. There will be blind-spot monitors accessible.
Every 4Runner will include a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster, a motorized tailgate window, and at least an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 14.0-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, a bigger digital gauge cluster, a wireless charging pad, and USB-C connections are among the available options.
Trailhunter 4Runners will be equipped with higher-mounted air intakes for improved fording depth, 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires for an approximate two-inch increase in ride height, and remote-reservoir shocks. Along with a 2,400-watt inverter and pre-wired auxiliary switches, it also has rock rails and skid-plate coverage for essential running equipment.
In contrast, Platinums come equipped with heated second-row seats, a head-up display, a towing package, and blacked-out trim.
A 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty and two years of free scheduled maintenance are included with every 4Runner.
How much does the 2025 Toyota 4Runner cost?
The price of the updated 2025 Toyota 4Runner, including a $1,450 destination fee, ranges from $42,220 to $68,350. For SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, and Limited grades, four-wheel drive is an additional $2,000 in cost. TRD Off-Road, Platinum, Trailhunter, TRD Pro, and Platinum trims all come with it as standard.
The volume model may be the $48,700 TRD Sport. In addition to 20-inch dark-gray alloy wheels instead of 17-inch ones, it also has a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, manually adjustable heated front seats, five USB ports, and a wireless smartphone charger.
Where is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner made?
In Japan.
