A Long-Awaited Redesign
After a decade, Toyota has graced the Fifth-generation 4Runner with a complete makeover. Now features a modernized platform, without being deficient to its off-roader characteristics. The 4Runner now rides on the TNGA-F platform, already shared with its stablemates, Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tundra, and Lexus GX. What’s more? The 2025 Toyota 4Runner features refined durability, and enhanced ride quality and is now available with a hybrid powertrain.
Turbocharged Power and Hybrid Efficiency!
The aging 270-hp 4.0-liter V6 now gets swapped by a refined 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 block, cranking 278 ponies coupled to an eight-speed automatic, offered as standard. For more power and efficiency, Toyota provides the i-Force Max hybrid system, which slots an electric motor between the engine and gear.
Dials up the performance to 326 horses and 465 lb-ft of Torque. The hybrid system remains available on most trims and is standard for the range-topping Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter, powertrain choice remains similar to the hybrid Tacoma.
Modern Tech Meets Rugged Capability
Inside, the 4Runner receives a complete makeover. Most trims adopt a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 14-inch infotainment display with a wide catalog of connectivity gizmos. Including, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Toyota’s revamped Safety Sense driver-assistance suite. More standard features are now offered for off-road focused trims, like the TRD Pro, which equips an electronic locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control as standard.
A Competitive Off-Road Landscape
The new 4Runner raucous launch now experiences stiff competitors, including Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, both featuring serious off-roader chops with detachable roofs and doors. However, Toyota’s legacy remains undisputed for its promising reliability and a new hybrid powertrain to set the 4Runner apart.
Pricing and Value
The range-topping trims do show value deficiencies. Whereas, the new 4Runner opulence and finish remain good at the SR5’s $42,220 entry cost, plus the wide catalog of model-specific features and lounge upgrades offer meaningful value to cost. However, the lush platform does get dull as prices hike up to $65,285, which could get you a Lexus GX.
To hit your sweet spot, the four-wheel drive TRD Off Road remains a capable choice, offered at $50,640. The TRD Off-Road features beefier Bilstein shocks, chunkier treads, plus an optional anti-roll bar disconnect and could be further enhanced by a Premium version. The hybrid powertrain remains a plus but costs an extra $2800. Except for that the new 4Runner has experienced a well-attributed overdue makeover for 2025.
