2025 Toyota 4Runner Review

Fans of this iconic off-roader will appreciate just how many ways that this ride has changed in its next generation incarnation. And if you weren’t a fan yet, you will be now. In category after category, it is meeting and exceeding benchmarks. Here’s a summary of the changes:

• All New Exterior with legacy “wrap-over” quarter glass

• All New Platform with superior handling and ride quality

• New Standard Engine with more horsepower and torque

• Exciting-yet-thrifty i-Force Max Hybrid

• All New Cabin with more standards

• Upgraded Digital Cockpit

• More Standard Driver Assistance

• More Luxurious Amenities on the menu

• New Stabilizer Bar Disconnect with push button

• New Trailhunter,  a refined overland rig

• New Platinum, a luxury 4Runner

Toyota has really outdone itself in transforming this mid-size SUV without sacrificing its central mission to make off-roading better. It provides the comfort and modern technologies that today’s car buyers demand and still provides the excitement off-roaders crave.

A new turbo four replaces the old engine, and it cranks up output to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. This i-Force powertrain is standard on the five trim levels, starting with the SR5.

For the first time, there’s a Toyota 4Runner Hybrid. This is the iForce MAX, and it’s standard on the top four trim levels, including the 4Runner TRD Pro. It’s also available on the two TRD Off-Road models and the Limited.

To create the hybrid, engineers took a turbocharged 2.4-L engine and paired it with a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack. In an original move, they integrated a 48-horsepower electric motor into the eight-speed transmission. Output is 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, providing the incredible power that off-roaders crave.

The 4Runner’s towing capacity reaches up to 5,000 pounds, allowing you to bring along boats, trailers, and other gear with ease. IForce Max Hybrid 4Runner mpg is estimated at 25 mpg combined.

The tradition of offering racy rear-wheel drive on the SR5 and TRD Sport continues while the other models are offered in a range of four-wheel drive systems. Whether you’re focused on fuel efficiency or seeking the ultimate in towing and off-road performance, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner has the options to meet your needs. 

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is built to conquer the toughest terrains with ease. Advanced four-wheel-drive systems provide exceptional traction and stability, allowing you to navigate rocky trails, steep inclines, and muddy paths confidently.  As before, diehard enthusiasts will aim for the TRD Off Road or 4Runner TRD Pro. Of course, now they have the 4Runner Trailhunter to consider as well.

For those who demand precision and control on the trail, the 2025 4Runner offers advanced off-road features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. Crawl Control automatically adjusts the throttle and brakes on five low-speed settings, helping drivers navigate challenging off-road conditions without having to constantly modulate the pedals. 

Multi-Terrain Select allows you to choose from several modes that optimize traction based on the terrain, such as mud, sand, or rocks. With these capabilities, the 4Runner off-road experience is unparalleled, providing confidence and control wherever your adventures take you.

How much fun is your current ride? It may make the perfect down payment on a new 4Runner. You can get a fair appraisal from Kelley Blue Book and an instant cash offer from Earnhardt Toyota.  Just click on this KBB tool to get answers about how much your trade-in is worth.

Inside the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, you’ll find a spacious and versatile cabin with a renewed mission to serve its passengers in every possible way.  Materials are more refined, even when they are rugged and ready for punishment in some models. 

The SR5 trim level adds more 4Runner interior standards, including bigger screens and push button start.  In addition to good legroom, the second-row seats have a 4-way recline capability.  These tumble seats can be tucked away for cargo versatility.  Toyota continues to offer a third row to satisfy 4Runner shoppers who need the extra seats.

Shoppers can climb the ladder to gain more off-road prowess, but they can also claim more amenities with the 4Runner TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road Premium, leather-clad Limited and luxury-like Platinum.

Every year Toyota tech tools and toys become more sophisticated. Whether its the 2025 Toyota 4Runner or 4Runner hybrid, push button start is standard and a Digital Key is available.  The new cockpit has a 7-inch digital driver display and an 8-inch touchscreen.  Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto expand what your smartphone can send to the screen.

For the ultimate cockpit, there’s 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and a 14-inch touchscreen. These tools and an available head-up display provide drivers with the information they need to handle the road and to take on off-road challenges. 

The 2025 4Runner also comes equipped with advanced collision avoidance systems and other driver assistance.  Toyota packs on value with its top-notch pre-collision system with pedestrian, cyclist and motorcyclist detection PLUS enhanced intersection support. The lane departure alert with steering assist can recognize large 3D objects as well as the lane lines, helping reduce the chances of driving into a guardrail or other stationary object.

To reduce your stress, Toyota includes its exclusive Proactive Driving Assist, Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. 

With familiar packages and some new choices,  4Runner trim levels offer a unique set of features and capabilities to suit different preferences and lifestyles.  

Renowned for its legendary off-road capabilities and durable construction, the next generation 4Runner is destined to be a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Its exciting updates and design enhancements ensure that the 4Runner not only performs exceptionally on the trail but also provides a comfortable and modern driving experience on the road. 

Discover the 2025 Toyota 4Runner at Earnhardt Toyota and see why it’s the ultimate mid-size SUV for adventure. Visit us today to explore our full range of 4Runner models, schedule a test drive, and find the perfect trim to fit your needs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the power, versatility, and technology of the 2025 4Runner.