The 2025 Toyota 4Runner: An SUV Enthusiast’s Dream (Mostly)
As someone who has owned multiple Toyota SUVs—including several 4Runners, a Lexus GX, and two Sequoias—I’ve always had a soft spot for Toyota’s approach to combining rugged capability with reliability. So, when Toyota unveiled the all-new 2025 4Runner, I couldn’t wait to dig into every detail. Spoiler alert: this 6th-generation 4Runner is poised to be a bestseller, and I think it might just outsell the highly anticipated new Land Cruiser. But, like all things, it’s not without a few personal nitpicks.
Styling That Fits Toyota’s Tough New Lineup
One look at the 2025 4Runner, and it’s clear Toyota nailed the design. It borrows heavily from its siblings—the Sequoia, Tundra, and Tacoma—creating a cohesive aesthetic that screams “modern adventure vehicle.”
The aggressive grille, sharp LED lights, and muscular bodywork make it feel right at home in Toyota’s rugged lineup. It’s a natural evolution that feels fresh yet familiar. Honestly, it’s hard not to picture this as the centerpiece of Toyota’s showroom.
The Powertrain Debate: Where’s the V6?
If there’s one thing I wish Toyota had done differently, it’s the engine lineup. Don’t get me wrong, the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder i-FORCE engine and its hybrid counterpart are impressive on paper.
With up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, the hybrid is no slouch. And the EPA-estimated fuel efficiency—26 MPG for the turbo and 24 MPG for the hybrid—is better than any 4Runner I’ve owned.
But I’ll be honest: I wish it had the turbocharged V6. The turbocharged four-cylinder is a strategic move, likely to differentiate the 4Runner from the Lexus GX (which boasts the turbo-charged V6).
I get it—it’s Toyota’s way of giving the Lexus lineup its premium edge. Still, as a longtime 4Runner fan, I can’t help but want the more powerful engine under the hood.
Trailhunter: A Dream Trim for Overlanders
Toyota has truly upped the ante with the Trailhunter trim, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. Designed with overlanders in mind, this model comes with Old Man Emu shocks, 33-inch Toyo tires, and a high-mount air intake—features that scream “take me anywhere.”
Add in the bronze wheels and heritage grille with an LED light bar, and it’s the perfect mix of function and style. For someone who loves venturing off the beaten path, this trim is a dream straight from the factory.
Advanced Tech and Luxurious Touches
The 2025 4Runner also takes a significant leap in tech. The 14-inch touchscreen and Multi-Terrain Monitor make navigating tricky trails a breeze, while features like Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 and Digital Key keep it competitive in the modern SUV market.
And then there’s the new Platinum trim—Toyota’s first stab at making the 4Runner feel downright luxurious. With leather seats, a panoramic moonroof, and a JBL sound system, it’s clear Toyota wants the 4Runner to appeal to both adventure junkies and daily drivers who crave a touch of luxury.
2025 4Runner Photos
Prediction: A Showroom Star
Starting at $40,770 (plus delivery fees), the 2025 4Runner is well-positioned to dominate its segment. With nine trims to choose from—including the off-road-focused TRD Pro and the high-end Platinum—it has something for everyone.
Toyota fans are already buzzing, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it eclipses the new Land Cruiser in sales. It’s a perfect blend of modern Toyota design and the 4Runner’s rugged heritage.
As someone who’s driven Toyota SUVs for years, I’m thrilled to see the 4Runner evolving while staying true to its roots. Sure, I’d trade the four-cylinder for a V6 in a heartbeat, but Toyota knows what they’re doing.
Whether you’re heading into the mountains, towing your gear, or just making a grocery run, the 2025 4Runner is ready—and it’s going to turn a lot of heads in the process.