For over a decade, the Toyota 4Runner has been a monument to rugged simplicity in an automotive world obsessed with constant change. While competitors cycled through multiple redesigns, the 5th-generation 4Runner stood firm, a beloved and unyielding icon of off-road capability and legendary reliability. Its formula was simple: a tough body-on-frame chassis, a bulletproof V6 engine, and just enough technology to get by. But for years, the whispers have grown into a roar, with enthusiasts, prospective buyers, and industry experts all asking the same question: when will the legend be reborn?
The answer is finally here. The long, patient wait is over. Yes, there will be an all-new, completely redesigned Toyota 4Runner for the 2025 model year. This isn’t just a minor refresh or a new coat of paint; it’s the 6th generation, a ground-up reimagining of the iconic SUV. It promises to bring the 4Runner squarely into the modern era while aiming to preserve the adventurous soul that has made it a household name. Get ready to dive deep into everything we know about the most anticipated SUV release in years.
The End of an Era, The Dawn of a New Foundation
To understand the monumental shift the 2025 4Runner represents, we must first pay respects to the outgoing 5th generation. Since its debut for the 2010 model year, it has carved out a unique niche. In a sea of car-based crossover SUVs, the 4Runner remained a true truck, a direct descendant of the original Toyota Hilux-based Trekker. Its 4.0-liter V6 engine and 5-speed automatic transmission are relics of a bygone era, but they are celebrated for their virtually indestructible nature. Owners knew they were sacrificing fuel economy and on-road refinement for the peace of mind that their vehicle would start every time, no matter the conditions, and tackle any trail they pointed it at.
However, the world has changed. Mounting pressure from emissions regulations, evolving safety standards, and fierce competition from the likes of the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler made a redesign not just desirable, but necessary. The 5th-gen’s charm could no longer hide its dated interior, thirsty powertrain, and lack of modern driver-assistance features.
The TNGA-F Platform: A Modern Skeleton
The single most important change for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is its new architecture. It will be built on Toyota’s state-of-the-art TNGA-F global truck platform. This is the same modern, high-strength, body-on-frame foundation that underpins the new Tundra, the impressive Sequoia, the Lexus GX, and, most importantly, the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
Sharing this platform with its pickup truck sibling is a return to form for the 4Runner and provides a crystal-clear roadmap of what to expect. The TNGA-F platform utilizes modern manufacturing techniques, including high-strength steel with blanking and laser welds, to create a frame that is significantly more rigid and lighter than the one it replaces. What does this mean for the driver? It translates to a cascade of benefits: a more controlled and comfortable on-road ride, vastly improved handling dynamics, a quieter cabin, and superior crash safety. For the off-roader, that increased rigidity means a more stable and predictable vehicle when navigating challenging terrain, allowing the suspension to do its job more effectively.
Powering the Legend: A New Heart for the 4Runner
Perhaps the most emotional change for longtime fans will be the departure of the venerable 4.0-liter 1GR-FE V6 engine. While its reliability is the stuff of legend, its performance figures and fuel economy are undeniably last-generation. The 2025 4Runner will follow the Tacoma’s lead, offering two advanced and significantly more potent powertrain options.
The New Standard: A Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
The base engine for the 2025 4Runner is expected to be a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In the new Tacoma, this engine, codenamed T24A-FTS, produces a healthy 278 horsepower and a massive 317 lb-ft of torque when paired with the new 8-speed automatic transmission.
Let’s put that in perspective. The outgoing V6 produced 270 horsepower and just 278 lb-ft of torque. The new standard engine not only offers more horsepower but, more critically for a truck, a substantial 39 lb-ft increase in torque. Even better, that peak torque arrives much lower in the RPM range, providing stronger acceleration from a stop and more responsive power for highway merging and passing. While some may mourn the loss of the V6’s soundtrack, the real-world performance and significant improvements in fuel efficiency from this modern turbo engine and 8-speed gearbox will be impossible to ignore.
Electrifying Performance: The i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
The real headliner for the 2025 4Runner’s powertrain lineup will be the optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid system. This is not the fuel-sipping hybrid system from a Prius; this is a performance-oriented powerhouse. It takes the same 2.4-liter turbo engine and integrates a 48-hp electric motor directly into the 8-speed transmission, fed by a small 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack.
The combined output in the Tacoma is a staggering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. That’s a 56-horsepower increase and an incredible 187 lb-ft torque advantage over the old V6. This powertrain will transform the 4Runner’s character. The electric motor’s instant torque fills in any potential gaps before the turbo spools up, resulting in relentless, linear acceleration. For off-roading, this is a game-changer. The massive low-end grunt will make crawling over obstacles and powering up steep, loose inclines an effortless affair. It provides the low-speed, high-torque benefits of an electric vehicle without any of the range anxiety, making it the perfect application for an overlanding and trail-focused machine.
A Chiseled New Look and a 21st-Century Cabin
The 2025 4Runner will shed its familiar, rounded shape for a design that is far more aggressive, chiseled, and in line with its new Tundra and Tacoma stablemates. Expect a bold, upright grille, muscular fender flares, and a commanding presence. Spy shots and informed speculation point to a “baby Sequoia” aesthetic, blending rugged truck-like cues with a fully enclosed SUV body.
One of the most cherished features of the 4Runner is its signature power-retractable rear window. Toyota’s engineers are keenly aware of its iconic status, and all indications suggest this beloved feature will be carried over to the new generation, preserving a key part of the 4Runner’s unique identity.
Inside, the transformation will be even more dramatic. The outdated, plastic-heavy cabin of the 5th generation will be replaced with a modern, tech-forward interior that mirrors the excellent new Tacoma.
| Feature | 5th-Generation 4Runner | Expected 2025 6th-Generation 4Runner |
|---|---|---|
| Center Display | Standard 8-inch touchscreen | Standard 8-inch, available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog gauges with small digital screen | Available 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster |
| Safety Suite | Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) with enhanced features |
| Connectivity | Wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto standard |
Higher-trim models will boast premium materials, comfortable and supportive new seat designs, and a plethora of clever storage solutions. The leap in technology, from the massive available 14-inch screen to the fully digital gauge cluster and the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, will be one of the most compelling reasons for current owners to upgrade.
Off-Road Prowess, Evolved and Enhanced
A new 4Runner must, above all else, be a master of the trail. The 6th generation is poised to be the most capable production 4Runner ever built. While core trims like the SR5, TRD Off-Road, and the flagship TRD Pro will undoubtedly return, they will be augmented with new hardware and technology borrowed from the Tacoma that will elevate their performance.
- Stabilizer Bar Disconnect: A feature once exclusive to the top-tier Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, an electronic front stabilizer bar disconnect mechanism is expected on premium off-road trims. With the push of a button, this system will allow for incredible front wheel articulation, keeping the tires on the ground and maintaining traction over highly uneven terrain.
- i-FORCE MAX Torque: The instant, low-RPM torque from the hybrid system will provide unprecedented control and power on technical trails. Navigating rock gardens and steep ascents will be smoother and more controlled than ever before, with less reliance on momentum and more on pure, accessible grunt.
Beyond these headline features, expect the full suite of Toyota’s off-road electronics to be upgraded. Multi-Terrain Select, which adjusts vehicle settings for different surfaces like mud, sand, or rocks, will likely function in both 4-Hi and 4-Lo, increasing its versatility. CRAWL Control, Toyota’s off-road cruise control, will be quieter and smoother in its operation. Furthermore, the introduction of the overlanding-focused Trailhunter trim on the Tacoma strongly suggests a similar variant could be in the cards for the 4Runner, complete with integrated, co-developed off-road gear from companies like ARB.
The Verdict: A Worthy Successor to the Crown
So, will there be a new 4Runner in 2025? Absolutely. And it will be a seismic shift for the nameplate. It embraces modernity where it matters most—in its platform, powertrain, safety, and in-cabin technology—while carefully preserving the rugged, body-on-frame DNA and off-road focus that defines it.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is no longer just a rumor. It is a reality that is set to redefine the mid-size off-road SUV segment. It will be more powerful, more efficient, safer, more comfortable on the road, and even more capable off of it. While the price will certainly increase to reflect these substantial upgrades, it will offer a compelling value proposition against its rivals. For the legions of loyal fans and a new generation of adventurers, the wait has been long, but all signs point to it being thoroughly worthwhile. The king is not dead; it’s just getting a new, much stronger heart and a modern suit of armor. Long live the 4Runner.
Is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner confirmed to be the all-new 6th generation?
Yes, it is officially confirmed. The 2025 model year marks the debut of the completely redesigned, 6th-generation Toyota 4Runner, ending the remarkable 15-year run of the 5th generation. This new model represents a ground-up redesign, moving away from its aging architecture to a modern, more capable platform. Toyota has indicated that this update is comprehensive, affecting everything from the powertrain and chassis to the interior technology and exterior styling, bringing the iconic SUV firmly into the modern era.
The move to a new generation was long-awaited by enthusiasts and is a strategic step for Toyota to keep the 4Runner competitive against rivals like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler. The redesign leverages Toyota’s latest engineering and manufacturing philosophies, promising significant improvements in performance, efficiency, safety, and on-road comfort without sacrificing the legendary off-road prowess and durability that have defined the 4Runner nameplate for decades.
What kind of engine and powertrain options will the 2025 4Runner have?
The long-serving 4.0-liter V6 engine is being retired. The standard powertrain for the 6th-generation 4Runner will be a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, similar to the one found in the new Tacoma. This modern engine is projected to deliver more horsepower and significantly more torque than the outgoing V6, while also providing substantial gains in fuel efficiency. This base engine will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering smoother and more responsive performance both on and off the road.
A major highlight for the new generation is the introduction of a hybrid option. The 2025 4Runner will offer the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, which pairs the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with an electric motor. This setup, also shared with the Tacoma, will be the top-tier performance option, delivering a powerful combination of instant torque, impressive horsepower, and improved fuel economy. This hybrid is not just about efficiency; it’s engineered to enhance off-road capability by providing low-speed electric power and precise throttle control.
Is the new 4Runner built on a new platform?
Yes, the 2025 4Runner is built on Toyota’s modern TNGA-F global truck platform. This is a body-on-frame architecture that is now shared across Toyota’s entire lineup of trucks and large SUVs, including the Tundra, Sequoia, and the new Tacoma. The switch to this platform is one of the most significant aspects of the redesign, as it provides a much stiffer and more robust foundation than the previous generation’s chassis, which dated back to 2009.
The benefits of the TNGA-F platform are numerous. It allows for improved handling dynamics and a more comfortable on-road ride thanks to a lower center of gravity and the implementation of a new multi-link rear suspension setup. For off-road enthusiasts, the stronger frame enhances durability and provides a better base for advanced suspension systems, contributing to increased wheel articulation and overall capability. Furthermore, this standardized platform improves manufacturing efficiency and allows for the seamless integration of modern safety systems and powertrain technologies.
What are the key changes to the exterior and interior design?
The exterior design of the 6th-generation 4Runner adopts a more chiseled, aggressive, and modern aesthetic, drawing clear inspiration from its platform-mates, the new Tacoma and Sequoia. Expect a bold front fascia, muscular fender flares, and a rugged stance that pays homage to its heritage while looking decidedly contemporary. Critically, signature design cues have been retained, including the iconic power-down rear window, which has been a fan-favorite feature for generations and is confirmed to return on the new model.
Inside, the transformation is even more dramatic. The outdated interior is replaced with a modern, tech-forward cabin that prioritizes both function and comfort. A large, centrally-mounted touchscreen infotainment system, up to 14 inches on higher trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available. The instrument cluster can be optioned as a fully digital display, and the overall material quality and fit-and-finish will see a significant upgrade. Despite the new tech, the design retains a practical, rugged feel with chunky, easy-to-use physical controls for key functions like climate and off-road settings.
When will the 2025 Toyota 4Runner be released and available for purchase?
Following its official debut, the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner is expected to begin arriving at dealerships in the latter half of 2024, likely starting in the fall. The initial rollout will prioritize higher-demand trims and configurations, with a wider variety of models becoming available as production ramps up into early 2025. This timeline aligns with Toyota’s recent launch cadences for other major redesigns, such as the Tundra and Tacoma.
Prospective buyers should anticipate high initial demand, which could lead to dealership markups and long waiting lists, especially for sought-after models like the TRD Pro and the new Trailhunter trim. It is highly recommended to contact your local Toyota dealership early to inquire about their allocation, reservation process, and to be placed on an interest list. This will give you the best chance of securing one of the first units to arrive.
Will the new 4Runner still be a serious off-road vehicle?
Absolutely. Toyota has made it clear that enhancing the 4Runner’s legendary off-road capability was a primary goal of the 6th-generation redesign. The move to the stronger TNGA-F platform provides a more robust foundation for tackling difficult terrain. Furthermore, Toyota will continue to offer a full range of off-road-focused trims, including the TRD Off-Road and the flagship TRD Pro, each equipped with specialized hardware like locking rear differentials, upgraded suspension systems, and advanced traction control modes.
The new generation also introduces new off-road technologies and features. A new Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism, activated with the push of a button, will be available to increase front-wheel articulation on uneven surfaces. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain also benefits off-roading by providing instant torque for rock crawling. Additionally, a new Trailhunter trim has been introduced, designed for overlanding and equipped from the factory with integrated gear from well-known off-road brands, such as specialized dampers, steel rock rails, and a high-mount air intake.
What new technology and safety features will be included?
The 2025 4Runner sees a massive leap forward in in-cabin technology. The centerpiece is a new-generation Toyota Audio Multimedia system, running on a much larger and more responsive touchscreen than the outgoing model. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and an available premium JBL audio system bring the 4Runner’s infotainment up to modern standards. A fully digital instrument cluster is also available, offering customizable displays for vehicle information, navigation, and off-road data.
On the safety front, every trim of the new 4Runner will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This advanced suite of driver-assist features includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Lane Tracing Assist. Proactive Driving Assist is also a new feature, which uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to provide gentle braking or steering to support driving tasks. TSS 3.0 features enhanced sensors with improved detection capabilities, providing a significant upgrade in active safety.