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The Toyota 4Runner has long been a staple among off-road and SUV lovers. When you think of rugged capability paired with a reliable build, the 4Runner is usually one of the first vehicles that comes to mind.
So, when Toyota announced that the 2025 4Runner would undergo its first major redesign in 15 years, I was curious to see what changes they would bring to the table.
I’m here to walk you through everything we know so far about this much-anticipated release. Let’s not waste any more precious time, and let’s get right into it.
A Quick Look
| Category | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Model | 2025 Toyota 4Runner |
| Redesign Year | First major redesign in 15 years |
| Platform | TNGA-F (shared with Tacoma) |
| Engines | 2.4L turbocharged i-Force (278 hp, 317 lb-ft); i-Force Max hybrid (326 hp, 465 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (new, replacing 5-speed) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 6,000 pounds (with hybrid) |
| Trim Levels | 9 total: SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, Trailhunter |
| New Trim | Trailhunter (overland-focused) |
| Off-Road Features | Multi-Terrain Select, locking rear differential, Active Traction Control |
| Interior Upgrades | Optional 14-inch touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, 12.3-inch digital cluster |
| Safety Features | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist |
| Availability | Q4 of 2024 |
| Estimated Price | Starts around $45,000; higher trims exceed $60,000 |
Availability and Pricing
So, when can you get your hands on one of these? The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is expected to hit dealerships toward the end of this year in Q4, as per Safford Brown Toyota Glen Burnie.
While Toyota hasn’t released official pricing yet, early estimates suggest that the base SR5 trim will start at around $45,000. The top-tier trims, like the Trailhunter and Platinum, could easily exceed $60,000, depending on how you configure them.
If you’re planning on placing an order, it might be a good idea to do so sooner rather than later. With all the hype around this redesign, I wouldn’t be surprised if the initial batches sell out quickly.
Design and Exterior Features
First off, let’s talk about the exterior. The 2025 4Runner keeps its iconic, boxy silhouette that we’ve all grown to love. Toyota stayed true to the SUV’s rugged roots while incorporating modern touches that make it feel more up-to-date.
Up front, you’ll notice a more aggressive grille design paired with updated LED headlights, giving it a bold, confident stance, as was reported by Motortrend. The rear end now sports sleek LED taillights and an all-caps “TOYOTA” badge across the tailgate, adding a touch of retro flair.
And yes, they kept the beloved roll-down rear window. If you’re like me, that’s always been one of those quirky yet incredibly functional features that sets the 4Runner apart.
It was mentioned by Toyota Pressroom that the new 4Runner is built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, the same one that underpins the Tacoma pickup truck. This means a sturdier body-on-frame construction, perfect for those off-road adventures.
Powertrain and Performance
Here’s where things get really interesting. Toyota made some big changes under the hood. Gone is the old 4.0-liter V6, replaced by a base 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine known as the i-Force.
With 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, it offers plenty of power for both city driving and trail-blazing, as was noted by Renz Dimaandal. Plus, with an eight-speed automatic transmission (finally replacing the outdated five-speed), you’ll notice a significant bump in both performance and fuel efficiency.
But if you’re looking for even more power and better fuel economy, Toyota’s got you covered with the i-Force Max hybrid option, which is found in Toyota Tundra as well.
This setup combines the same turbocharged engine with a 48-horsepower electric motor, giving you a total output of 326 horsepower and a beefy 465 lb-ft of torque.
Towing capacity is now up to 6,000 pounds, which is 1,000 pounds more than before.
Trim Levels and Off-Road Capabilities
Toyota is expanding its trim lineup for 2025, offering a total of nine trims to choose from. Here are the levels reported by Trail4Runner:
- SR5
- TRD Sport
- TRD Sport Premium
- TRD Off-Road
- TRD Off-Road Premium
- Limited
- Platinum
- TRD Pro
- Trailhunter
Each trim caters to a different type of buyer. For those leaning towards a touch of luxury, the Platinum trim is packed with upscale features like heated second-row seats, rain-sensing wipers, and a head-up display.
On the other hand, if off-roading is your passion, the TRD Pro and new Trailhunter trims are your best bet. The Trailhunter trim, in particular, caught my attention. It’s designed specifically for overlanders who want to take their adventures off the grid.
It comes with ARB’s Old Man Emu 2.5-inch forged shocks, 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires, and increased ground clearance. There’s even a high-mounted air intake, skid plates, and an ARB-designed roof rack to make sure you’re adventure-ready straight from the factory.
Other off-road-focused trims like the TRD Pro feature goodies such as an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case, Active Traction Control, and an electronic locking rear differential.
The Multi-Terrain Select system lets you adjust settings based on the terrain you’re tackling, making it a breeze to handle sand, mud, snow, or rocky trails.
Interior and Technology
The inside of the 4Runner has received a much-needed overhaul. The dashboard design is cleaner, more modern, and filled with tech that aligns with today’s standards.
According to Autoblog, one of the most impressive updates is the optional 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The user interface is super intuitive, with large icons that make navigation easier whether you’re on a highway or a rugged back road.
And of course, it supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your favorite apps are always at your fingertips. Higher trims get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customized to show everything from navigation to off-road data.
Interior materials have also been upgraded, with soft-touch surfaces and leather upholstery available on premium trims. The second-row seats now tumble forward, opening up even more cargo space when you need it.
Driver Assistance Features
No matter where your adventures take you, safety should always be a priority. According to Toyota Pressroom, the 2025 4Runner comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
There’s also a new Proactive Driving Assist feature that provides gentle braking and steering inputs to help keep a safe distance from vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Worth It?
From everything I’ve seen so far, it’s clear that Toyota is taking the 4Runner into a new era while still honoring its legacy. The updates to the powertrain, off-road capabilities, and interior tech make it a serious contender in the SUV market.
I’m personally excited to see how it performs once it’s out on the road (or off it!). For long-time 4Runner fans, this might be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. And if you’re new to the 4Runner world, well, there’s no better time to jump in.
