The Toyota 4Runner. For decades, this name has been synonymous with ruggedness, reliability, and off-road prowess. A true icon in the SUV world, the 4Runner has carved its own path, appealing to those who demand capability without compromise. Now, after forty years of building its legendary reputation, Toyota unveils the all-new 2025 4Runner, marking the beginning of its sixth generation. This isn’t just a refresh; it’s a complete reimagining, built upon a solid foundation while pushing the boundaries of performance, technology, and refinement. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is poised to redefine the modern off-road SUV, promising to be more capable, more comfortable, and more connected than ever before. Hitting dealerships at the end of 2024, the new 4Runner is ready to continue its legacy as the ultimate adventure vehicle.
This latest iteration of the Toyota Runner stays true to its adventurous spirit, engineered to conquer challenging terrains while offering enhanced on-road comfort and modern amenities. It’s designed for those who seek thrilling outdoor experiences and require a vehicle that can keep up with their active lifestyles. The 2025 model introduces a bold and contemporary design, integrating cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and advanced safety features. Toyota has effectively raised the bar, creating a 4Runner that excels both as a capable off-roader and a sophisticated daily driver.
Built in Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara plant in Japan, the 2025 4Runner embodies Toyota’s commitment to quality and durability. This new generation is not just an evolution; it’s a revolution, designed to solidify the 4Runner’s position as a leader in the off-road SUV segment for years to come.
Dave Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager, emphasizes the 2025 4Runner’s significance within Toyota’s truck lineup: “This all-new 4Runner has incredible versatility and capability that nicely rounds out our truck family story. We’ve sold over 3 million in the 40 years it has been on sale, and this sixth-generation model offers a cool new look and incredible features, yet retains the rugged style and capability our customers love about this icon of adventure.”
Foundation of Strength: The TNGA-F Platform
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is built from the ground up on Toyota’s robust TNGA-F global truck platform. This platform, renowned for its strength and durability, is shared with other formidable Toyota vehicles like the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia. The core of this platform is a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame, providing exceptional rigidity and torsional stiffness, essential for both off-road durability and on-road composure. The suspension system is equally advanced, featuring a multi-link coil rear suspension and a double wishbone front suspension. This combination ensures optimal wheel articulation for off-road adventures and a comfortable, controlled ride on paved roads.
Image alt text: 2025 Toyota 4Runner chassis showcasing the robust TNGA-F global truck platform, highlighting its steel-ladder frame and advanced suspension system.
The implementation of the TNGA-F platform is a game-changer for the 4Runner. It not only enhances the vehicle’s structural integrity but also significantly improves ride comfort and handling. Passengers will appreciate the smoother, more refined ride, even when seated in the available third-row. Furthermore, the strengthened frame, when coupled with the potent i-FORCE MAX powertrain, enables the 2025 4Runner to boast an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, making it exceptionally versatile for work and play.
Design Evolution: Honoring Heritage, Embracing the Future
The design of the all-new 4Runner is a masterful blend of heritage and modernity. Calty President, Kevin Hunter, explains the design philosophy: “Designing the legendary 4Runner began with identifying its unique and memorable aspects linked to fun, outdoor recreation. Inspired by Baja desert racing, the high lift, lean body, big tire, rugged athleticism defines the core of 4Runner’s go anywhere purpose”.
The design was spearheaded by the CALTY design team based in Michigan, who drew inspiration from the 4Runner’s rich history while simultaneously looking towards the future of SUV design. Developed alongside the Tacoma, the 2025 4Runner shares a familial design language, yet maintains its distinct identity. Both vehicles are influenced by the aesthetics of desert racing, projecting a purposeful and rugged appearance. In a nostalgic nod to the first and second generation 4Runners, the designers reintroduced the iconic “wrap over” quarter glass, a beloved design cue from the past. Crucially, the signature roll-down rear window, a defining feature of the 4Runner, remains a core element of the vehicle’s DNA.
Image alt text: Side profile of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner showcasing its rugged design, wrap-over quarter glass, and powerful stance inspired by Baja desert racing.
Inside the cabin, the design team focused on creating an environment that is both functional and sophisticated. The interior is designed for ease of use, with intuitive controls and a layout that balances modern aesthetics with rugged practicality. Features like the second-row tumble seats enhance the 4Runner’s interior versatility, maximizing cargo space and adaptability for passengers and gear.
Power and Efficiency: i-FORCE and i-FORCE MAX Powertrains
The 2025 4Runner offers a choice of two advanced and efficient turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder powertrains. The standard i-FORCE engine delivers a robust 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain will be standard on SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited grades, providing ample power for everyday driving and off-road excursions.
For those seeking even more power and enhanced efficiency, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain is available on TRD Off-Road and Limited models, and standard on TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum grades. This innovative hybrid system combines the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with a 48-hp electric motor seamlessly integrated into the eight-speed transmission. Power is supplied by a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack, resulting in a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and a massive 465 lb.-ft. of torque. This i-FORCE MAX powertrain represents the most powerful engine ever offered in a Toyota 4Runner, delivering exhilarating performance while improving fuel economy.
Image alt text: Close-up view of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, emphasizing its turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and electric motor integration for enhanced power and efficiency.
Trail-Ready Capability: Conquering Any Terrain
The Toyota 4Runner has always been synonymous with exceptional off-road capability, and the 2025 model takes this legacy even further. A newly available Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism significantly increases suspension articulation at the touch of a button. This feature allows the 4Runner to navigate uneven terrain more effectively, maintaining tire contact and maximizing traction. The 2025 4Runner boasts impressive approach and departure angles, with up to 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angles, allowing it to tackle steep inclines and challenging obstacles. The available Multi-Terrain Monitor system further enhances off-road confidence by providing the driver with a clear view of potential hazards on the center display, ensuring informed decision-making on the trail.
The 2025 4Runner offers a choice of 2WD, part-time 4WD, or full-time 4WD systems. 2WD models come equipped with an automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD) for enhanced traction in slippery conditions. 4WD models feature an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range, along with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) and Auto LSD. For maximum off-road performance, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter grades come standard with an electronic locking rear differential. The Limited grade offers an available full-time four-wheel-drive system with a center locking differential on i-FORCE MAX models, which is standard on the Platinum grade.
The Multi-Terrain Select system now operates in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low modes, offering customizable settings to optimize wheel spin control for various terrains like Mud, Dirt, and Sand. The 4Runner also incorporates the new, quieter CRAWL Control function, acting as a low-speed, off-road cruise control, allowing the driver to focus solely on steering through challenging terrain. In extreme low-traction situations, the available electronically activated locking rear differential can distribute power evenly (50/50) to the rear wheels for maximum grip. Downhill Assist Control is another valuable off-road feature, helping drivers maintain controlled descents on steep slopes by automatically regulating vehicle speed.
A Grade for Every Adventure: Diverse Model Lineup
The 2025 4Runner expands its model range, offering customers an unprecedented level of choice. With nine distinct grades available, there’s a 4Runner tailored to suit a wide spectrum of needs and preferences. The lineup includes SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road, TRD Off Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and the all-new Trailhunter.
The Trailhunter grade is a dedicated overlanding variant, designed for adventurers seeking to explore beyond the beaten path. Developed in collaboration with renowned off-road component manufacturers, the Trailhunter is a factory-built overlanding rig, ready for serious expeditions straight from the dealership. It features ARB’s Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with rear external piggyback remote reservoirs, and a uniquely co-designed ARB Roof Rack. The OME shocks and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires provide a significant lift, increasing ground clearance by two inches in the front and one and a half inches in the rear. A standard low-profile high-mount air intake ensures cleaner air intake for the i-FORCE MAX powertrain in dusty environments. Trailhunter models are further enhanced with rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates for robust underbody protection. Distinctive styling cues include a heritage grill with bronze “TOYOTA” lettering and an integrated 20-inch LED light bar, complemented by color-selectable RIGID LED fog lamps. A powerful 2400W AC inverter with outlets in the cabin and cargo area provides ample power for equipment and accessories. The Trailhunter is also pre-wired with three easily accessible auxiliary switches, ready for further customization with Toyota accessories.
Image alt text: Front view of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter grade, showcasing its heritage grill, integrated LED light bar, ARB roof rack, and rugged off-road enhancements.
For customers seeking premium luxury alongside 4Runner capability, the first-ever Platinum grade is introduced for 2025. Positioned above the Limited grade, the Platinum offers a high-end experience with unique black exterior styling elements, heated second-row seats, a standard tow tech package, Head-Up Display, and automatic rain-sensing wipers.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Connected and Intuitive
The 2025 4Runner is equipped with Toyota’s latest technology, headlined by new and expansive screens. An 8-inch or optional 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display features Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, developed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team in Texas. The system offers wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and seamlessly integrates with the available Qi wireless charging pad with enhanced power output. A USB-C data and charging port is conveniently located on the multimedia touchscreen, with additional dual USB-C charging ports in the front row and available for rear passengers. A 7-inch gauge cluster is standard on lower grades, while a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard on higher grades, providing drivers with customizable information displays.
Smart Key System with push-button start is standard across all grades. With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, an available Digital Key on select grades allows compatible smartphones to act as a key for vehicle entry and starting (network connectivity dependent). The Digital Key can also be remotely shared, providing convenient vehicle access management.
The Rugged Choice: Completing Toyota’s Truck Family
The all-new 2025 4Runner solidifies Toyota’s position as a leader in rugged, body-on-frame vehicles. Joining the full-size Tundra, the iconic Land Cruiser, and the versatile Tacoma, the 4Runner provides customers with a comprehensive range of truck and SUV options. These vehicles are designed to handle the toughest conditions and empower owners to explore the world with confidence. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building vehicles that are not only capable but also enrich the lives of their owners, enabling them to pursue their adventures, wherever they may lead.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Standard Safety and Peace of Mind
Every 2025 4Runner model comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), Toyota’s suite of advanced active safety and convenience systems. This comprehensive suite includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
Proactive Driving Assist (PDA), a new addition to Toyota Safety Sense, uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to provide gentle braking and/or steering support for tasks such as maintaining distance from preceding vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, and gentle braking into curves. It’s important to note that PDA is not a replacement for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different scenarios.
The TSS 3.0 system features enhanced capabilities across several functions:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Enhanced detection capabilities through new system sensors, improved intersection support, and now includes motorcyclist detection in addition to pedestrian and bicyclist detection.
- Lane Departure Alert: Now includes Steering Assist and enhanced lane recognition, detecting 3D objects like guardrails to better define lane boundaries.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Upgraded to Full-Speed Range capability with a fourth following distance setting. Enhanced vehicle detection allows for monitoring of multiple preceding vehicles and vehicles in adjacent lanes for smoother speed adjustments, particularly during lane changes.
- Lane Tracing Assist: Requires Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to be active. Enhanced lane recognition and lane centering, also provides slight steering adjustments to create more space when passing vehicles in adjacent lanes.
- Emergency Driving Stop System: A new function of Lane Tracing Assist that monitors driver input and can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver becomes unresponsive, such as during a medical emergency.
- Road Sign Assist: Detects and displays speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs, and certain warning signs on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
In addition to TSS 3.0, available safety features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) comes standard.
Beyond Zero Vision: A Step Towards Sustainability
As part of Toyota’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future through a diverse portfolio approach, the 2025 4Runner hybrid models proudly wear the Beyond Zero badge. Toyota is rapidly expanding its electrified vehicle lineup, soon offering 19 electrified vehicles, including 15 hybrid models, two plug-in hybrid models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle (BEV), and the Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. This broad range of options provides Toyota customers with more choices than any other automaker to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Warranty and ToyotaCare
The 2025 4Runner is backed by Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage, including a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 60-month corrosion perforation warranty with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles.
Furthermore, the 2025 4Runner includes ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, and 2 years of Roadside Assistance with unlimited mileage.
Updated June 27, 2024.
