Despite its somewhat recognizable appearance, the Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV has been completely revamped for the 2025 model year, with pricing and trim levels recently announced. If you’re looking for a midsize off-road SUV from Toyota but prefer not to choose the hybrid-only Land Cruiser, the 4Runner offers options that are up to $15,000 less expensive! If you’re interested in opting for Toyota’s commendable i-Force Max hybrid, which is available in the 4Runner, will you still save compared to the Land Cruiser?
The quick and straightforward answer is yes. The new hybrid i-Force Max 4Runner begins at $53,440, which is lower than the current starting price of $56,450 for the entry-level 1958 trim of the hybrid-only Land Cruiser. Both SUVs share the same platform and have the same available hybrid powertrain, so the decision really comes down to the optional third row of seating in the 4Runner versus the Land Cruiser’s two-row, boxier heritage design.
When considering off-roading, two Toyotas often come to mind for the average American consumer: the Tacoma and the 4Runner variants. While we had some hints about what to expect from the 2025 Toyota 4Runner following the new Tacoma’s launch, we did not have the complete picture until the sixth-generation 4Runner was officially unveiled. From the basic SR5 to the adventure-ready Trailhunter, here are the trims available for the new 2025 4Runner when it arrives at dealerships soon.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Standard Equipment
Similar to the fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is entirely new from the ground up. The 2025 4Runner is built on the same TNGA-F platform and features a boxed ladder frame alongside a multi-link coil live rear axle, while the front maintains a double wishbone independent suspension. This enables the all-new 4Runner to tow up to 6,000 pounds with its 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that generates 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. However, the 4Runner will offer two versions of this engine, with the second being the i-Force Max hybrid that produces 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, thanks to a 48-hp electric motor placed between the engine and the transmission.
This turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder replaces the previous 4.0-liter V-6 and yields 86 additional horsepower while also providing a 2.4-kW 120-volt AC inverter for powering devices. All 4Runners will be equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power to either the rear wheels or a full- or part-time 4WD system, depending on the selected trim. Rear-wheel-drive configurations will include an automatic limited-slip differential, while all 4WD variants will feature electronically controlled Active Traction Control in addition to the auto LSD.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Standard Safety and Convenience Features
Every 2025 Toyota 4Runner will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which has become customary for all TNGA-F vehicles, and this includes Proactive Driving Assist to aid during routine driving when conditions permit. The interior resembles the Tacoma, featuring a cover on the driver’s side dashboard that reads “Accessory Ready” in Morse code. The Multi-Terrain Select system is now operational in both 4-High and 4-Low settings, and a new CRAWL Control function operates more quietly than before.
Standard features across all trims include the Smart Key System with push-button start, allowing phone-as-key capability for connected smartphones when an active Remote Connect trial or subscription is available. All 2025 4Runners will also come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, alongside a USB-C data and charging port positioned on the right side of the touchscreen. Dual USB-C charging ports will be found in the front row as standard, and all 2025 Toyota 4Runners will offer second-row tumble seats for increased cargo space.
2025 Toyota 4Runner SR5
This is the most basic version of the 2025 4Runner, so expect it to include only the essential features, such as a RWD drivetrain, an 8-inch infotainment display, and a 7-inch gauge cluster. It is powered by the standard i-Force non-hybrid engine producing 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Even so, it can still tow up to 6,000 lbs, making it a reasonable SUV choice, especially considering that you can configure it with a part-time 4WD system and enjoy its 9.2 inches of ground clearance.
2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport
The 2025 TRD Sport trim of the 4Runner is primarily designed for paved roads, but it still performs well on unpaved routes. Similar to the Tacoma TRD Sport, expect to see “TRD” branding prominently displayed, including unique “TRD Sport” decals, TRD-branded dampers, and TRD wheels. This trim can be configured with either RWD or 4WD. However, unlike the Tacoma TRD Sport, it does not come with the i-Force Max powertrain and instead has the standard i-Force non-hybrid engine. The TRD Sport Premium enhances the regular Sport with additional high-end tech features.
2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road
For those who prefer off-road adventures, the 2025 4Runner TRD Off-Road is tailored to that experience. It shares similar features with the TRD Sport but is oriented more towards off-road capabilities, featuring sturdier sidewall tires on smaller TRD Off-Road wheels, Bilstein monotube dampers with external reservoirs, skid plates, and standard 4WD.
This package also offers the i-Force Max engine as an optional choice. Those opting for the i-Force Max engine will find a standard 2.4-kW AC power inverter in the cargo area, as all i-Force Max hybrids include this outlet. Be mindful of the additional weight due to the 1.87-kWh nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery that comes with this hybrid. Like the TRD Sport Premium, you can upgrade the TRD Off-Road with luxury features for a more refined driving experience before moving up to the TRD Pro, which will be discussed later. We anticipate seeing the 14-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster featured here.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Limited
Designed with a blend of luxury and technology, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Limited resembles the TRD Sport but elevates the experience with added features. It will include 18-inch wheels, silver trim accents, and full-time 4WD powered by either the standard i-Force turbo four-cylinder engine or the optional i-Force Max hybrid. Similar to the Tacoma Limited, the 4Runner Limited boasts standard Adaptive Variable Suspension electric dampers, a 14-inch infotainment display with a 14-speaker JBL audio system, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Additionally, a hands-free power liftgate will be standard, with headlights showcasing “4Runner” logos.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Platinum
New for 2025, the 4Runner Platinum is one of two luxury trims that enhance the vehicle’s appeal. Like other Platinum models, it offers a high-end experience with black styling elements on the exterior, heated seats in the second row, a standard towing tech package, heads-up display (HUD), and automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers. Despite its luxurious features, the i-Force powertrain is standard on the Premium trim, while the i-Force Max Hybrid and several technology packages are available as options.
2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
The highly anticipated 4Runner TRD Pro trim makes a return in 2025, showcasing improvements over its predecessor. This model features the standard i-Force Max powertrain and a full-time 4WD system. It will incorporate a TRD performance intake system, although the “functional” hood scoop does not link to this intake. The TRD Pro employs a specialized damper system from Fox Racing Shox featuring an internal-bypass mechanism and remote oil reservoirs, along with unique forged upper control arms branded with “TRD Pro.” Additionally, standard equipment includes 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires.
On the exterior, the TRD Pro will have distinctive headlights, with a “TRD” logo on the passenger side and “Pro” on the driver’s side. Instead of the usual “4Runner” badge, the tailgate will display a “TRD Pro” logo, while the grille maintains a heritage design that integrates a light bar from Rigid Industries, which only activates with high beams rather than fog lights. Durability is enhanced with high-strength steel skid plates featuring a silver and red TRD color scheme.
Moreover, the TRD Pro incorporates Toyota’s Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism, an electrically disengaging stabilizer bar system that differs from the previous KDSS setup. The activation of this feature requires the vehicle to come to a complete stop. Internally, the TRD Pro will also include the 14-inch infotainment screen alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster as standard features.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter is advertised as the trim designed for those who are genuine adventurers. One of the intriguing Easter Eggs appears in the headlights, where the driver’s side features a “Trailhunter” logo, while the passenger side has a compass badge. Similar to the TRD Pro, the Trailhunter is equipped with forged upper control arms as standard, but here you’ll find the “Trailhunter” and compass badges instead of the “TRD Pro.” The suspension movements are controlled by Old Man Emu dampers, and an onboard air compressor located in the cargo area is standard, unique to the Trailhunter for now, though it may be available in other trims in the future.
These tires are 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires, which raise the Trailhunter’s height by 2 inches in the front and 1.5 inches at the back compared to the standard 4Runner. Additionally, the Trailhunter features a 2.4-kW AC power inverter thanks to its standard i-Force Max hybrid system.
The Trailhunter is also equipped with a grille-mounted light bar and Rigid Industries fog lamps similar to the TRD Pro, but the fog lamps can switch between yellow and white for driving on dusty trails. Toyota took into consideration the filter-clogging environment when including the desert air intake, although it’s important to note that this snorkel is not designed for water fording as it is not water-sealed.
Like the TRD Pro, the Trailhunter includes extra underbody protection through high-strength steel skid plates, although the engine skid plate does not bear the TRD silver and red colors. Exclusive features of the Trailhunter comprise rock rails, a heritage grille with bronze “Toyota” lettering, pre-wired auxiliary switches, and an ARB roof rack.
On a positive note, even though it’s completely new, the base price of the 2025 4Runner hasn’t increased considerably compared to its predecessor, which started at $42,155, in contrast to $42,220 for the latest model year.
The 2025 4Runner presents an impressive array of off-road capabilities
From the outset, it is evident that the 2025 4Runner is designed for off-road adventures.
Toyota highlights its new Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism in its press release, which boosts suspension flexibility at the push of a button, enhancing rock crawling performance and lowering the chances of damage to the wheel wells.
Regarding rock crawling, the newly introduced CRAWL Control feature operates like low-speed cruise control, enabling the driver to concentrate on navigating obstacles instead of maintaining a steady speed.
A 32-degree approach angle provides the Toyota 4Runner with a significant advantage for navigating challenging landscapes.
Still concerned about harming other bodywork components? There’s no need!
The combination of a 32-degree approach angle, a 24-degree departure angle, and a Multi-Terrain Monitor system helps you keep an eye on potential hazards.
However, you can’t effectively monitor diverse terrains if the vehicle isn’t equipped to handle them.
Fortunately, the Multi-Terrain Select system efficiently manages wheel spin in mud, dirt, and sand, available in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low modes.
After navigating rocky terrain, the Downhill Assist Control acts as another cruise control-like feature that minimizes brake usage by maintaining slower speeds during descents.
The 4Runner’s 4WD drivetrains are essential for dedicated off-road enthusiasts
Although the 4Runner will also come as a 2WD with an automatic limited-slip differential, serious off-roaders are likely to prefer the part-time or full-time 4WD variants.
The available features for these models are sure to impress even the most seasoned off-roaders, including a standard electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range, Active Traction Control, and an optional Electronically-activated Locking Rear Differential.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter trim offers serious off-roading capabilities for this Japanese brand
A total of nine different trim levels will be available for the 2025 4Runner, including SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road, TRD Off Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter.
Each trim level brings specific standard options, but the top-tier Trailhunter is where Toyota truly went all out
Replacing the standard shocks are ARB Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with rear external piggyback remote reservoirs, along with 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires, adding an extra two inches of lift at the front and one and a half inches at the rear.
The i-FORCE MAX powertrain is better ventilated due to a low-profile high-mount air intake, ensuring optimal cooling during extended periods of off-road driving.
The Trailhunter trim provides additional protection for key components with features like rock rails and robust steel skid plates.
Toyota also acknowledges that off-roading can coexist with convenience features
The new ARB roof rack delivers extra storage room for gear, while the 2400W AC inverter and three pre-wired auxiliary switches keep power available for any necessary accessories on your journey.
As night falls, you can illuminate the area with the integrated 20-inch LED light bar featuring color-selectable RIGID LED fog lamps.
Toyota has equipped their latest 4Runner with outstanding off-road gear.
The variety of trim levels offers buyers ample flexibility to choose how serious they want to be on their trail adventures, meaning you don’t need to opt for the Trailhunter if the SR5 meets your requirements.