The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Might Be The Best Purchase Of 2026
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner leaves a lot to be desired, making the old one more interesting.
When the 2025 Toyota 4Runner was announced, the world was excited. There was so much hype that dealers were hiking up the prices and the vehicle hadn’t even arrived.
By the time the 2025 Toyota 4Runner reached the anxious hands of buyers and reviewers alike, it delivered more than people expected. It was, in its essence, the same as the previous generations. That’s not exactly a bad thing: it was rugged, reliable, and tough.
“Drive Past Myths: Get the Real Deal on Car Buying!”
🚘 Uncover 13 Car Buying Misconceptions with Our FREE Newsletter!
Plus you will get our quick tips, expert advice, and myth-busting insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now and make informed decisions without the detours.
“Experts Hate This! Learn the Car Buying Secrets They Don’t Want You to Know. Free Subscription!”
However, it had a crucial difference. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner has much better handling than its older siblings. If you’ve ever owned any of the previous generations, you know they don’t excel at on-road handling.
Toyota also ditched the previous engine, the famously reliable V6, and replaced it with the new 2.4L iForce powerplant. This gives the SUV better acceleration but it has raised some concerns about longevity.
When Toyota began releasing information about the 2026 model year, people were excited. If the 2025 Toyota 4Runner had been so good, certainly the new year was just as good. Well, the 2026 Toyota 4Runner leaves a lot to be desired, for one very specific reason.
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner Basically hasn’t changed
The average price for the 2026 Toyota 4Runner is around $43,000 when including the destination charges. The 2025 model year started at around $40,000.
Granted, new models always cost more, but there’s one problem. The new 2026 Toyota 4Runner doesn’t offer anything new in most of the trims. The only difference is an optional stabilizer bar disconnect for the TRD Off-Road Premium hybrid, which is, ironically, one of the most expensive trims, at around $68,000 in 2025.
That’s an expensive option that already feels pricey for what it offers, compared to other 4Runner trims. After all, even the bare, most basic version, is actually quite good. However, if you are a loyal TRD buyer, you know that you will get a complete package. Not only that, but also stands out of the competition.
You can find good discounts on 2025 Toyota 4Runner unsold models
Are there any redeeming features about the 2026 Toyota 4Runner? There are. For one, Toyota has worked on weeding any issues (as few as they were) on the engine, making it even more reliable.
You’re also having a vehicle that you know will have less depreciation than the competition. However, is that enough? Not quite..
The reality is that, if you don’t mind having last year’s option, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is an excellent purchase. You’re not paying price spikes, and you can find a solid $2,000 to $4,000 discount.