2025 Toyota 4Runner: Igniting the Trail with Hybrid Power and Electrifying Performance
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is embracing hybrid and electric technology.
- The current 4Runner is known for its reliability and simplicity.
- Insights from recent releases provide hints about the upcoming 4Runner.
- The new 4Runner is expected to maintain its independent suspension setup.
- Toyota may introduce a Trailhunter package for overland adventures.
- Downsized engines and hybrid powertrains are likely in the new model.
- The 4Runner will utilize Toyota’s TNGA-F platform for enhanced performance.
- There is potential for an all-electric 4Runner in the future.
- Pricing for the 2025 4Runner is expected to be competitive.
- The new model aims to strike a balance between modern advancements and staying true to the 4Runner’s heritage.
2025 Toyota 4Runner: Embracing the Future with Hybrid and Electric Technology
The 4Runner has become an iconic nameplate known for its versatility, durability, and off-road prowess. Despite its aging design, the current generation has enjoyed continued success, thanks to its old-school charm and reliable performance. However, as Toyota prepares to introduce the next iteration of the 4Runner, it faces the challenge of striking a balance between maintaining simplicity and embracing modern advancements.
The Old Model: A Legend in Its Own Right
The current Toyota 4Runner has earned its legendary status, primarily due to its trouble-free reliability.
The current Toyota 4Runner has earned its legendary status, primarily due to its trouble-free reliability. Its simplistic design and robust components, such as the 4.0-liter V6 engine, have stood the test of time. With minimal complexities and fewer parts prone to failure, the 4Runner has remained a dependable choice for adventure seekers.
The drivetrain, featuring an independent front end and solid rear axle, has been a tried-and-true formula for Toyota’s trucks. Inside the cabin, the 4Runner boasts a classic dashboard design and intuitive controls, which have resonated well with buyers.
2025 Toyota 4runner Updates on the Horizon: Insights from Toyota’s Recent Releases
Recent unveils of the all-new Tacoma and Lexus GX offer valuable insights into the upcoming 4Runner.
While Toyota has yet to release official information about the 2025 4Runner, we can glean some details from recent unveilings. The all-new Tacoma and Lexus GX, both sharing underpinnings with the 4Runner, provide valuable insights into what we can expect from the upcoming model.
Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, utilized in the Land Cruiser, Tundra, Tacoma, and Sequoia, will also serve as the foundation for the next-generation 4Runner.
Evolution of Suspension: Maintaining Comfort and Capability
Toyota is expected to retain the independent front and solid rear suspension setup, striking a balance between comfort and capability.
Toyota is expected to retain the independent front and solid rear suspension setup, as it has proven successful in balancing comfort and capability for the 4Runner. The suspension system found in the TRD Pro 4Runner models will likely mirror that of the new Tacoma TRD PRO, featuring disconnectable sway bars and Fox QS3 shocks.
To compete with rivals like the Bronco Sasquatch, which offers 35-inch tires, the 4Runner might also see an increase in tire size beyond the current 33 inches.
Expanding Off-Road Capabilities
The new 4Runner is set to inherit off-road features and potentially go further to compete with rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler.
The new Tacoma TRD Pro boasts a range of off-road features, including crawl control, multi-terrain select, a rear locker, and low range. We anticipate that the 4Runner will inherit these features and potentially go further to compete with vehicles like the Bronco and Wrangler. The inclusion of a front locker and larger tires would enhance the 4Runner’s off-road prowess and cater to the demands of adventure enthusiasts.
Trailhunter Package: Ready for Overland Adventures
Expect a Trailhunter trim level for the 4Runner, equipped with factory-installed accessories tailored for overland expeditions.”
Toyota has recently announced the availability of the Trailhunter package for the Tacoma, offering factory-installed accessories designed for overland expeditions. This package equips the vehicle with features such as Old Man Emu suspension, a steel rear bumper, extensive underbody protection, and rock sliders.
Given the 4Runner’s popularity as an overland vehicle, we can expect a similar Trailhunter trim level for the new model. This edition would likely include features like Old Man Emu suspension, a steel rear bumper, a roof rack, underbody protection, and other overland-related factory accessories. With this package, customers can enjoy a modified vehicle covered by a warranty and financed as a single unit.
Shift in Power: Downsized and Hybridized
The 4Runner is poised to bid farewell to its 4.0-liter engine and embrace a downsized turbocharged powerplant, possibly paired with a hybrid system.
As downsized engines become more prevalent in the industry, the 4Runner is expected to say farewell to its current 4.0-liter engine and embrace a smaller, turbocharged powerplant.
According to MotorTrend, the 2025 4Runner will likely feature a hybrid powertrain, possibly adopting the 2.4-liter hybrid engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission found in the Tacoma. While this shift raises concerns about the new model’s reliability compared to its predecessor, Toyota will undoubtedly prioritize delivering a competitive and capable 4Runner.
2025 Toyota 4runner: Platform and Powertrain Advancements
The 2025 4Runner will utilize Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, known for improved rigidity and performance, and feature a range of powertrain options.
The next-generation 4Runner will utilize Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, which has been successfully implemented in various models. This modular body-on-frame platform offers improved rigidity, versatility, and potential for enhanced performance. As for powertrain options, we can anticipate the inclusion of the 2.4-liter turbo-four engine, as seen in the Lexus NX 350, along with a detuned version of the i-Force Max Twin Turbo V6 Hybrid engine found in the Tundra and Sequoia.
Toyota’s commitment to hybrid technology suggests that the new 4Runner may incorporate electrification, improving fuel efficiency and offering a new level of performance. Additionally, the aging five-speed automatic transmission will likely be replaced with a more advanced transmission system, ensuring better off-road capabilities.
2025 Toyota 4runner: Embracing Electric Possibilities
While an all-electric 4Runner is not confirmed, Toyota’s focus on EV development opens the door for future electrification.
While Toyota has been cautious in its adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), the recent appointment of CEO Koji Sato signals a potential shift in the company’s approach to EV development. While there have been no specific indications about an all-electric 4Runner, Toyota’s focus on revamping EV production opens the door to the possibility.
Although an electric variant may not debut alongside the traditional gas-powered versions, the future may hold an all-electric 4Runner. As Toyota explores the EV market, leveraging the shared platform between the 4Runner and Tacoma could provide a viable foundation for an electric SUV.
2025 Toyota 4runner: Pricing and Availability
The 2025 4Runner is expected to maintain competitive pricing, making it accessible to off-road enthusiasts.
Considering the strong sales performance of the current 4Runner, Toyota aims to maintain its competitive position in the market. The pricing for the 2025 4Runner is expected to be in line with the previous model, starting around the low $40,000 range. This pricing strategy will ensure that the new 4Runner remains accessible to off-road enthusiasts seeking a capable and reliable SUV.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner: Key Highlights at a Glance
| Topic | Summary |
|---|---|
| Old Model | The current 4Runner is renowned for its reliability and trouble-free performance. |
| Updates on the Horizon | Insights from recent releases, such as the all-new Tacoma and Lexus GX, offer clues for the 4Runner’s future. |
| Evolution of Suspension | Toyota plans to maintain an independent front and solid rear suspension setup for comfort and capability. |
| Expanding Off-Road Capabilities | The new 4Runner is expected to enhance its off-road features to compete with rivals like the Bronco and Wrangler. |
| Trailhunter Package | Toyota may introduce a Trailhunter package with factory-installed accessories for overland adventures. |
| A Shift in Power | The 4Runner may switch to downsized turbocharged engines and hybrid powertrains in the new model. |
| Platform and Powertrain Advancements | Toyota’s TNGA-F platform will be utilized, providing improved rigidity and offering various powertrain options. |
| Embracing Electric Possibilities | While not confirmed, there is a possibility of future electrification in the form of an all-electric 4Runner. |
| Pricing and Availability | The pricing for the 2025 4Runner is expected to remain competitive, ensuring accessibility for off-road enthusiasts. |