The Toyota 4Runner has long been celebrated for its ruggedness and reliability, and the 2025 model year marks the beginning of its highly anticipated sixth generation. Recently, a new owner in sunny Southern California picked up their 2025 4Runner SR5 4×4 and shared their initial thoughts and a comprehensive photo gallery. This review dives into their firsthand experience, offering potential buyers a detailed look at what the new 4Runner SR5 trim offers.
First Impressions and Driving Experience
The owner opted for the Underground exterior color with Boulder cloth interior, adding the third-row seats and aluminum running boards as options. Having driven the vehicle for the first 100 miles, their initial assessment is overwhelmingly positive. A key highlight is the new powertrain, which they explicitly state “has not felt weak in the slightest.” Addressing concerns about turbo lag, the review mentions “no issues with any kind of turbo lag or hesitation,” ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience.
Fuel efficiency is always a hot topic, and the owner reports that their real-world MPG is precisely matching EPA estimates. They are currently averaging 22.6 MPG with a balanced mix of 50% highway and 50% city driving in hilly terrain. This figure is particularly impressive for a vehicle of the 4Runner’s size and capability, making it a practical choice for daily use and adventures alike.
Interior and Feature Highlights of the SR5 Trim
Moving inside, the review emphasizes the utilitarian nature of the SR5 trim. While some reviewers initially speculated about certain features in the US trim, this owner clarifies what is and isn’t included as standard. Notably absent are features like a heated steering wheel, heated seats, and inverter plugs for both the second row and trunk. However, the owner notes that adding these features, except for the heated steering wheel, should be relatively straightforward in the future, indicating the aftermarket potential and customization options for the 2025 4Runner. Another minor point is the absence of third-row USB-C ports, which is somewhat surprising given the availability of the third-row seat option in the SR5 trim.
Despite these omissions, the focus remains on the core strengths of the 4Runner SR5. The interior, while cloth, is described as comfortable and durable.
Exceptional Build Quality and Cabin Comfort
One of the most compelling aspects of this early 2025 4Runner review is the praise for its inherent build quality. The owner, with experience driving and owning multiple vehicles across different trims, states that “not one of them can hold a candle to this car.” This is high praise and speaks volumes about Toyota’s commitment to quality.
The cabin is highlighted for its remarkable lack of noise and vibrations. “When you are driving down the road, the internal cabin makes ZERO rattles, squeaks or creaks,” even with items stored in the rear cargo area. The tires are quiet, and road and wind noise are impressively isolated. The reviewer points out that without the cloth seats and smaller displays (compared to higher trims), one might easily mistake the SR5 for a top-tier model in terms of cabin refinement. This underscores the solid foundation and engineering present even in the base trim of the 2025 4Runner.
Practicality of the Third-Row Seating
The inclusion of third-row seats in this SR5 model is specifically addressed. Beyond simply adding passenger capacity, the owner points out two key benefits. Firstly, the third row evens out the cargo floor when folded, creating a more level surface that is “better for car camping.” Secondly, it provides the flexibility to carry “an additional two kids or two shorter adults” when needed, expanding the vehicle’s passenger capacity from five to seven. While not anticipated to be used frequently, the third row is considered a “huge value add for the SR5 itself for just 700 bucks more,” enhancing both practicality and versatility.
Payload and GVWR Information
For those interested in the 2025 4Runner’s capabilities for towing and hauling, the owner shared images of the door stickers detailing the Payload and GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating).
The key figures are:
- Payload: 1160 lbs / 525 kg (reduced by 61 lbs / 28kg due to modifications)
- GVWR: 6075 lbs
These figures provide important context for owners planning to utilize the 4Runner for work or recreational purposes, offering clarity on load-carrying capacity.
Addressing Owner Queries: Steering, Seats, and Ride Quality
In a Q&A section, the owner responded to common questions from potential buyers, providing valuable insights into specific aspects of the 2025 4Runner SR5.
- Steering Feel: Described as “extremely light overall,” easily turned with minimal effort. Road feel is present but minimal, with lane keep assist being more noticeable.
- Front Seats and Seating Position: The seating position is deemed “perfect,” with comfortable and durable cloth seats. Despite being 6’2″, the owner reports no issues with space or the center console.
- Ride Quality: Praised as “excellent” and more agile than the previous generation, with reduced body sway. Nose dive during rapid braking is still present, which is expected for this type of vehicle and suspension setup. The SR5 is noted to have the “worst suspension setup of any of the trims,” suggesting potential for improvement with aftermarket upgrades for those seeking enhanced handling.
Conclusion: A Strong Start for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner SR5
This initial owner review paints a positive picture of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner SR5. It highlights the new powertrain’s responsiveness and efficiency, the impressive build quality, and the practical aspects of the SR5 trim, including the optional third-row seating. While some features are not standard on this trim, the core driving experience and inherent Toyota quality shine through. For those considering the 2025 4Runner, this real-world review offers valuable insights into what to expect from the SR5 model.
