The Toyota 4Runner hasn’t had a full redesign since 2009. You read that right—over 15 years of the same rugged formula. But now, for 2025, the off-road icon finally gets a ground-up reboot, and it’s everything fans have been asking for: hybrid power, a bold new design, real tech upgrades, and the return of serious trail capability.
Whether you’re a longtime 4Runner loyalist or a curious newcomer shopping for a rugged family SUV that doesn’t look or feel like everything else on the road, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner might just be the comeback story of the year.
This blog dives into everything we know so far about the new 4Runner—from engines and trims to off-road upgrades, interior tech, pricing, and how it compares to Bronco, Wrangler, and even its Lexus twin.
Why the 2025 4Runner Redesign Is a Big Deal
The 4Runner is one of Toyota’s most loyal nameplates. It’s legendary in the overlanding and off-road world, beloved by campers, hikers, and families who need real ground clearance, not just a fancy badge.
But for years, it was stuck in a time warp—old infotainment, outdated drivetrain, poor fuel economy. That all changes for 2025.
Built on the TNGA-F body-on-frame platform shared with the Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia, the new 4Runner is tougher, smarter, and more efficient. It’s finally the SUV that modern 4Runner fans—and new buyers—deserve.
New Engine Options: Hybrid Power and Big Torque
Say goodbye to the aging 4.0-liter V6. The 2025 4Runner goes turbo and hybrid.
Base Engine:
- 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four (i-Force)
- 278 horsepower
- 317 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Standard on most trims
Optional Engine (i-Force MAX Hybrid):
- 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder paired with a 48-hp electric motor
- Combined output: 326 horsepower
- A massive 465 lb-ft of torque
- Standard on TRD Pro and Trailhunter trims
- Same system as the Tacoma Hybrid
This isn’t just about fuel economy (though you’ll likely see a 25–28 mpg average). It’s about power, control, and a much better towing experience. The old 4Runner felt sluggish with a trailer. The new one? It’s ready to pull, climb, and go.
Off-Road Ready: TRD Pro and the New Trailhunter
Toyota isn’t backing off the trails. It’s doubling down.
TRD Pro Returns
- Standard i-Force MAX hybrid
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- Fox internal bypass shocks
- Front skid plates
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Red accents and TOYOTA heritage grille
New Trailhunter Trim
- Factory-built overland rig
- Old Man Emu shocks
- Roof rack, steel bumpers, and rock rails
- Integrated ARB accessories
- Bronze accents and Trailhunter badging
These trims aren’t just cosmetic. Toyota built them for buyers who’ll actually use them—off-road, overland, or beyond cell service.
Ground clearance is improved. The breakover and departure angles are sharper. Approach angle? Beastly. And while Toyota hasn’t confirmed water fording depth, it’s rumored to match or beat the Land Cruiser’s.
Modernized Interior: Finally!
This is where 4Runner fans might cry happy tears.
The cabin finally feels like it belongs in 2025—not 2005.
Key features include:
- 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota’s new infotainment interface
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- SofTex or leather-trimmed seating (trim-dependent)
- Optional JBL sound system
- Available heated and ventilated seats
- Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard
Rear seats are more comfortable with extra legroom, and the cargo area is more flexible thanks to a new flat-folding floor and side-mounted storage bins.
A power rear window? Yes, it still has it. Because Toyota knows that’s a deal-breaker for real 4Runner fans.
Exterior Design: Bold, Boxy, and Built to Be Seen
Toyota didn’t go subtle. The 2025 4Runner looks like it could run over its own predecessor without spilling your coffee.
- Sharper lines and squared wheel arches
- TRD models have exposed recovery hooks
- Trailhunter has steel bumpers and a factory winch cutout
- Tailgate-mounted spoiler on sport trims
- Retro-inspired taillights (think old-school FJ vibes)
Paint options include bright white, Solar Octane, Ice Cap, Bronze Oxide, and Underground Gray. The roof rack is integrated. Fender flares are functional. It looks more like a Land Cruiser than a Highlander—and that’s the point.
Trim Levels and Pricing Breakdown
Toyota offers a huge spread of trims to match different buyers. Here’s the likely breakdown and projected pricing:
- SR5 – $42,000 (base)
- TRD Sport – $45,000
- TRD Off-Road – $48,000
- Limited – $50,000
- Platinum (new) – $55,000
- TRD Pro – $58,000
- Trailhunter – $60,000+
That might sound steep—but remember, the outgoing 4Runner TRD Pro was already pushing $55K with far fewer features. Now, you’re getting a better ride, hybrid torque, and far more usable tech.
4Runner vs the Competition
The off-road SUV field is more crowded than ever. Here’s how the 2025 4Runner stacks up:
| Model | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Hybrid Option | Starting Price |
| 2025 Toyota 4Runner | 278 / 326 | 317 / 465 | Yes (i-Force MAX) | $42,000 |
| 2025 Ford Bronco | 275 / 315 | 315 / 410 | No | $39,630 |
| Jeep Wrangler | 285 / 375 | 260 / 470 | Yes (4xe) | $35,195 |
| Land Rover Defender | 296+ | 295+ | Mild Hybrid | $56,400 |
The 4Runner now has the torque advantage—and it’s finally competitive in tech, efficiency, and comfort.
Towing, Payload, and Real-World Use
Toyota hasn’t published full towing specs yet, but expect:
- Towing capacity: 6,000–6,500 lbs (depending on engine)
- Payload: Likely 1,500–1,700 lbs
- Roof load rating: 500 lbs static (for tents), 200–300 lbs dynamic
It’ll be a top-tier overland rig, not just a daily commuter with big tires.
Expect real-world fuel economy in the mid-to-high 20s mpg with the hybrid and low 20s with the gas turbo.
When Can You Get One?
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner will arrive in:
- Summer 2024 for early trims
- Fall 2024 for Trailhunter and hybrid variants
- Orders open: Spring 2024
- Expect high demand and dealer markups early on
If you want one, reserve fast—and avoid the TRD Pro “waiting list tax.”
Final Thoughts: The SUV We’ve Been Waiting For
Toyota didn’t just redesign the 4Runner. They brought it back to life. With new tech, hybrid torque, trail-ready builds, and modern comfort, this is easily one of the most exciting SUVs of 2025.
It’s no longer “just old-school charm.” It’s the real deal—modernized, optimized, and ready for any adventure. Whether you’re overlanding, commuting, or just sick of boring crossovers, the 2025 4Runner deserves your attention.
It’s still a 4Runner—just finally evolved.
FAQ: 2025 Toyota 4Runner
Is the 2025 4Runner a hybrid?
Yes—most trims offer a gas turbo engine, but TRD Pro and Trailhunter come standard with a powerful i-Force MAX hybrid.
Will the rear window still roll down?
Yes, the signature power rear glass is back.
What platform is it built on?
The same TNGA-F platform as the Tacoma and Land Cruiser.
Can it tow more than the old model?
Yes. It should tow up to 6,500 lbs—more than the outgoing V6 could manage.
Will it qualify for tax credits?
Possibly, depending on hybrid battery sourcing and production location.
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