I recently had the opportunity to attend Toyota's regional preview event at their R&D center just south of Ann Arbor, Michigan, where I got behind the wheel of the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner. These manufacturer events are gold for automotive journalists because they offer something you rarely get with regular press loans: the chance to sample multiple trim levels back-to-back and pick the brains of the engineers who built the vehicle.
What made this preview particularly valuable was the opportunity to drive the outgoing generation alongside the new one. That side-by-side comparison proved illuminating, especially for someone who has logged serious miles in the previous 4Runner across desert shelf roads, highway marathons, and countless adventures where its nimbleness literally saved my life on multiple occasions.
A Genuinely Good Re-Interpretation That Makes Me Nostalgic For The Past
Toyota's engineering team delivered exactly what marketing teams demanded. The 2025 4Runner brings more power, better fuel economy, upgraded technology, and a modern design that fits seamlessly into Toyota's current lineup. After 15 years without a major update, the previous generation felt genuinely dated by 2024 standards.
This is the same challenge that the Landcruiser faces too and there's no perfect solution since the joy of both those platforms was that it had been refined to near perfection for what they were - reliable, sturdy, go and do anything vehicles.
Objectively, this new 4Runner impresses. The available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain pumps out 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque while achieving an EPA-estimated 24 MPG highway. The interior feels more refined, the technology actually works intuitively, and the capability remains undeniable with features like the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism on Trailhunter and TRD Pro models.
But here's my candid assessment: it doesn't feel quite right yet. After years of knowing every quirk and capability of the previous generation, this new 4Runner feels like trading well-worn work boots for a technically superior pair that hasn't been broken in. The vehicle feels heavier and less nimble, and despite improved ergonomics, I felt more cramped in the driver's seat.
The 4Runner traditionally served guys who wanted genuine capability and Toyota reliability without paying luxury SUV prices. This new generation, starting at $40,770 plus $1,450 delivery, pushes into more expensive, feature-rich territory that may price out some of its core audience. It really isn't that much more expensive but what's interesting is that enthusiasts are snapping up 2024 models still on dealer lots and paying a premium for them since this vehicle has build a decade and a half of trust among overlanders.
That said, the 2025 4Runner still delivers on its core promise: a sturdy SUV perfect for guys weekend road trips, whether you're hauling gear to the lake with a boat in tow or driving cross-country to catch an out-of-town baseball game.
NOTE: Orange 4Runner with small integrated screen are from the 2024 5th-generation 4Runner.
The Right 4Runner for Your Adventures
Toyota now offers nine distinct trim levels, each targeting different adventure styles and budgets.
SR5: The Practical Family Man
The entry-level SR5 delivers solid capability with 278 horsepower from the i-FORCE engine and available third-row seating. This trim suits the dad who needs reliable family transportation that can handle weekend camping trips and the occasional dirt road detour.
TRD Sport and TRD Sport Premium: The Suburban Adventurer
These trims add sport-tuned suspension and 20-inch wheels for guys who spend most time on pavement but want the confidence of 4Runner capability. The Premium adds luxury touches like the 14-inch touchscreen and JBL audio for the man who appreciates both adventure potential and daily comfort.
TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium: The Weekend Warrior
Equipped with Bilstein shocks, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and Multi-Terrain Select with Crawl Control, these trims target the guy who regularly escapes civilization. The Premium version adds creature comforts without compromising the serious off-road hardware.
Limited: The Refined Explorer
With heated and ventilated leather seats, power moonroof, and available full-time four-wheel drive, the Limited appeals to the sophisticated outdoorsman who wants luxury alongside capability. Perfect for the executive who needs to look good arriving at the mountain resort.
Trailhunter: The Serious Overlander
Built specifically for overlanding enthusiasts, the Trailhunter comes with Old Man Emu shocks, ARB roof rack, on-board air compressor, and distinctive bronze accents. This trim serves the man planning multi-day backcountry expeditions where self-sufficiency matters most.
TRD Pro: The Performance Purist
Featuring TRD-tuned FOX QS3 adjustable shocks and aggressive styling, the TRD Pro targets the adrenaline junkie who demands maximum off-road performance. This suits the guy who views every trail as a personal challenge.
Platinum: The Luxury Adventurer
The flagship Platinum combines premium leather, heated second-row seats, and Head-Up Display with full 4Runner capability. Built for the successful businessman who refuses to compromise between comfort and adventure potential.
I Look Forward To Building New Memories In The 6th-Generation Toyota 4Runner
The 2025 4Runner represents significant evolution after a 15-year hiatus from major updates.
While my initial impressions to the new platform are shared by many in the off-road community, the fundamentals that made the 4Runner legendary remain intact. Reliability and trustworthiness has been a hallmark of the Toyota brand for decades and I'm hoping that continues. The proof is in the pudding as they say and the reality is that when you venture out into the desert - there are Wranglers, Tacomas and 4Runners that are all going strong decades later. Will we see 2025 4Runners on the trails in 20 years too?
Only time will tell but I'm looking forward to the opportunity to put it to the test and build new memories with it!
Toyota has successfully modernized their adventure icon while expanding the lineup to serve every type of outdoor enthusiast, from weekend warriors to serious overlanders. The question isn't whether the new 4Runner can handle your adventures, but which trim level matches your specific brand of escapism.
