Unleashing 2025 Toyota 4Runner: The Resurrection of an Off-Road Legend
A New Era for the Toyota 4Runner: Excitement and Skepticism
After 15 long years, the Toyota 4Runner is finally new again. This iconic off-road vehicle was the last remaining old-school rig in Toyota’s lineup, proudly rocking a five-speed automatic transmission until its retirement. Now, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner debuts with a turbocharged engine and the option of a hybrid system. So, do people really want that?
Simplistic Goodness
Despite the excitement, I’m left feeling slightly underwhelmed. You don’t get a new 4Runner every decade, after all. The new 4Runner is good on its own, but it’s a solid machine only. If you can snag one for about 30% off in five years, I’ll be the first in line to take it.
Specs at a Glance
| 2025 Toyota 4Runner Specs | Gas | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price (Trailhunter as tested) | $42,220 | $53,440 ($68,350) |
| Powertrain | 2.4-liter turbo-four, 8-speed automatic, 4×2 or part-time 4×4 | 2.4-liter turbo-four hybrid, 8-speed automatic, part-time 4×4 |
| Horsepower | 278 @ 6,000 rpm | 326 @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm | 465 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Seating Capacity | 5 (7 SR5 and Limited only) | 5 |
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2025 4Runner offers impressive off-road angles, including:
- SR5 and TRD Sport, Limited: 18° approach, 24° breakover, and 22° departure
- TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro, Trailhunter: 19° approach, 24° breakover, and 24° departure
Fuel Economy
- 4×2: 20 mpg city, 26 highway, 22 combined
- 4×4: 19 mpg city, 25 highway, 21 combined
- Hybrid: 23 mpg city, 24 highway, 23 combined
The Verdict
In the end, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner feels like every other off-roader Toyota makes, albeit a much more capable one. With an average score of 7.5/10, it’s a solid addition to the Toyota lineup, but one that left me feeling just a little bit unenthused.
