The body-on-frame 2025 4Runner will be assembled on Toyota’s durable TNGA-F global truck platform, which is shared by the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia. In place of the former V6 engine will be a new and more efficient turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder making 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. To enjoy a little more pep, the optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid powerplant, which pairs the 2.4-liter turbo with an electric motor, produces 326 hp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most robust powertrain ever offered for the 4Runner. Both will be joined to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds (lower for some configurations).
The ’25 4Runner will have either rear-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, or full-time four-wheel drive. Both RWD and 4WD models will get an automatic limited-slip differential, but the 4WD versions will also integrate an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high-and-low ranges and active traction control. The TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims will receive an electronic locking rear differential, while the Limited with the i-FORCE MAX will be eligible for a full-time 4WD system featuring a center locking differential, which is standard on the Platinum. This redesigned 4Runner will also offer the new Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM), which disengages the stabilizer bar at the push of a button to give the front suspension increased articulation. The ’25 4Runner will also flaunt 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angles and feature a new Multi-Terrain Select system that functions in 4WD-high and 4WD-low.
The renowned CALTY design team based in Michigan gets credit for the 2025 4Runner’s stylishly aggressive new look. Inspired by hardcore Baja desert racers, the newest 4Runner cuts a commanding shape with large tires and chiseled character lines that emphasize its dynamic capabilities. The cabin is brimming with modern comfort and convenience features, like a newly standard 8-inch touchscreen or an optional 14-inch touchscreen, plus wireless phone charging, a digital rearview mirror, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The ’25 4Runner will also qualify for Digital Key, allowing drivers to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle directly from a smartphone.
Every 2025 4Runner trim will be set up with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, which groups several advanced driver-assistance technologies like a 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, and proactive driving assist. Aside from those, a blind-spot monitor will be available along with rear cross-traffic alert and hill start control.
Two new trims are joining the 4Runner lineup for model year 2025: Trailhunter and Platinum. The Trailhunter is a dedicated overlanding rig outfitted with an artillery of off-road components, including Old Man Emu 2.5-inch forged shocks with rear external piggyback remote reservoirs, an ARB roof rack, 33-inch Toyo Open Country all-terrain tires (which give the 4Runner an additional 2 inches in the front and 1.5 inches in the rear), a low-profile high-mount air intake, and a complete set of underbody skid plates. Plus, the Trailhunter will show off a heritage-inspired grille with unique bronze TOYOTA lettering, an exclusive Everest green paint color, and an integrated 20-inch LED light bar alongside color-selectable RIGID LED fog lights. The more upscale Platinum trim, which sits above the Limited in the 4Runner’s nine-trim lineup, will come with special black exterior styling elements, heated second-row seats, a standard towing package, a head-up display, and automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers.