Toyota Motor recently unveiled the latest iteration of its 4Runner SUV, marking the first redesign in almost 15 years. The new 2025 model boasts a fresh look, drawing similarities to the revamped Toyota Tacoma pickup. Additionally, this version will introduce a hybrid engine for the first time, along with new high-end trims – “Platinum” and “Trailhunter.” This release aims to round out Toyota’s current lineup of trucks and SUVs, adding to its reputation for versatility and capability in the market.
Toyota’s “five brothers,” including the Tacoma, Tundra, 4Runner, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia, form the core of the company’s truck family. Among these models, the 4Runner stands out as the last to undergo a complete redesign on Toyota’s global truck platform, initially launched with the Land Cruiser and Tundra back in 2021. With over 3 million 4Runners sold in the past 40 years, Toyota aims to blend a new aesthetic with essential features while maintaining the robust style that appeals to adventure enthusiasts.
Despite Toyota’s reputation for fuel-efficient vehicles like the Prius, larger SUVs such as the 4Runner lagged in terms of fuel ratings prior to their redesign. The outgoing model offered a modest 17 mpg combined or lower, as per federal estimates. However, the upcoming 2025 4Runner promises improved fuel economy ratings, aligning with Toyota’s commitment to sustainability. By expanding the lineup to include potential hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric models, the company aims to strike a balance between performance and eco-friendliness across its product range.
The 2025 4Runner will be available in nine distinct models, catering to different preferences and requirements among consumers. From the baseline SR5 trim to the high-end Trailhunter and Platinum variants, each model offers a unique blend of off-road capabilities, luxury features, and performance attributes. The Trailhunter model, for instance, focuses on rugged off-road styling with added equipment like rock rails and steel skid plates, while the Platinum model emphasizes convenience and premium amenities for a more luxurious driving experience.
Key to the 2025 4Runner’s performance is its powertrain options, including a new hybrid engine configuration. The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, coupled with a 48-horsepower electric motor integrated into the transmission, delivers a robust output of up to 326 horsepower and 465 foot-pounds of torque. In contrast, the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 foot-pounds of torque, ensuring a balanced mix of power and efficiency across the model range. Production of the 2025 4Runner is currently underway at Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan, highlighting the company’s global manufacturing capabilities and commitment to quality.
Toyota’s latest 4Runner SUV represents a significant milestone in the automaker’s journey towards innovation and sustainability. By blending cutting-edge technology with time-tested durability and performance, the 2025 model aims to redefine the standards for adventure-driven vehicles in the market. With a keen focus on efficiency, versatility, and style, the new 4Runner is poised to captivate audiences and uphold Toyota’s legacy as a trusted name in the automotive industry.