New 2025 vs. 2024 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

For over a decade, the Toyota 4Runner has been known for its reliability and off-road capability, and it has served it well. However, Toyota’s iconic off-roader was due for a modern upgrade to keep pace with the Ford Bronco, which has been capturing the market. Finally, the 4Runner has been redesigned for 2025, with contemporary features while maintaining its rugged off-road character. I drove it to see how this sixth-generation model compares to last year’s fifth generation.  

A Generational Leap: 2024 vs. 2025: The difference between the model years is night and day. While the 2024 4Runner was a testament to rugged off-road reliability, the 2025 model is a statement for the future, building on the modern platform it now shares with the Tundra pickup and Land Cruiser.

Models & Price: The 2025 4Runner mid-size SUV lineup expands to nine trim levels, catering to a broader audience for on-road comfort and rugged off-road capability. SR5 ($42,220), TRD Sport ($48,700), TRD Off-Road ($50,640), TRD Sport Premium ($54,060), TRD Off-Road Premium ($56,420), Limited ($56,850), TRD Pro ($59,200), and a new rugged, retro-inspired Trailhunter grade ($61,500). While prices have increased, its modern tech and features have significantly enhanced the value.

Power/Performance: The antiquated 4.0L V6 and five-speed automatic have been replaced by a turbocharged 2.4-liter i-Force four-cylinder engine that generates 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2025 4Runner comes standard with rear-wheel and a full-time four-wheel drive system as an option. It can also include a two-speed transfer case for high and low range, plus more off-roading options. Additionally, the on-road performance has improved significantly, with smoother handling, increased torque, and acceleration.

For those seeking even more power and fuel efficiency, the 2025 4Runner offers a hybrid powertrain that generates 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque from the i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain and a 2.4-liter turbo with a motor-generator. The hybrid is available on the Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims.

Fuel Economy: According to the EPA, the turbo-four achieves an estimated 20 city/24 highway mpg, significantly improving over the 2024 model’s 16/19 mpg. There’s a slight difference between rear-wheel (22 mpg) and four-wheel drives (21mpg). The i-Force MAX hybrid gets an even more impressive 23 city/24 highway mpg.

Tech/Interior: The 2025 4Runner enters the modern era with upgraded interior design, quality materials, and advanced features, including an eight-inch or 14-inch infotainment touchscreen on the dash and a 12.3-inch digital cluster. The 4Runner seats five passengers as standard and can seat seven by adding an optional third row.

Exterior: The front-end design looks more aggressive with its larger grille and bold LED lighting. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models have unique, more rugged designs, with fog lights and steel bumpers.

Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard on all models to enhance safety with driver-assist features that provide more robust capabilities and smoother operation. The Multi-Terrain Monitor has been upgraded with a new Panoramic View Monitor, giving drivers a crystal-clear 360-degree view of obstacles on the trail.

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