After a staggering 15 years, Toyota has finally unleashed the all-new, sixth-generation 4Runner. This highly anticipated 4runner Redesign has been met with both excitement and controversy, making it one of the most talked-about new vehicles of the year. We recently purchased a 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road to experience firsthand what this redesigned SUV offers and to determine if the critiques surrounding it are justified.
Our journey with the new 4Runner has already been extensive. From tackling the challenging terrains of Moab alongside the new Land Cruiser 250 Series to pushing its limits on the Ike Gauntlet, we’ve put this SUV through its paces. This model is a cornerstone of Toyota’s lineup, with the previous generation consistently achieving impressive sales figures, often exceeding 100,000 units annually since 2016.
(Images: Toyota)
Why the Controversy Around the 4Runner Redesign?
The primary source of contention surrounding the 4Runner redesign stems from what lies beneath the hood: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This marks a significant departure from the beloved, naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V6 (1GR-FE) that powered the 4Runner for 22 years. Many loyal fans revered the V6 for its perceived bulletproof reliability and durability, vowing to keep their fifth-generation models running indefinitely.
However, it’s crucial to consider the context behind Toyota’s decision. The previous powertrain was undeniably sluggish, especially at higher altitudes or when equipped with off-road modifications like lift kits and larger tires. Fuel economy was also a significant drawback, rarely exceeding 18 mpg even under optimal driving conditions. Owners of off-road trims like the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro were particularly familiar with this fuel inefficiency.
The new turbocharged engine, coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission (a significant upgrade from the archaic 5-speed), promises to address these shortcomings. Toyota aims for the redesigned 4Runner to achieve fuel economy figures in the 20s. The standard turbo engine delivers 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, while a hybrid option further boosts output to an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This represents a substantial increase in power compared to the outgoing V6, despite the slightly less appealing engine note characteristic of many four-cylinder engines.
Beyond the Engine: Examining the Look, Interior, and Price of the Redesigned 4Runner
The engine is just one piece of the puzzle in the overall reception of the 2025 4Runner redesign. While the new 2.4-liter turbo engine is relatively new to the 4Runner, it has seen extensive use in other Toyota and Lexus vehicles for nearly half a decade, accumulating hundreds of thousands of miles without widespread reliability issues.
This 6th-generation 4Runner represents a significant evolution from its predecessor. Built on the TNGA-F platform shared with other modern Toyota SUVs and trucks, the styling of the new 4Runner aligns more closely with the new Toyota Tacoma pickup. Previous generations leaned towards the Land Cruiser Prado and Hilux in design cues. This stylistic shift might be a deciding factor for potential buyers depending on their preference for the new Tacoma’s aesthetic.
Inside, the 4Runner redesign brings a more comfortable and technologically advanced cabin. Material quality, technology integration, and overall ergonomics are noticeably improved compared to the previous generation.
However, the advancements in the 4Runner redesign come at a cost – literally. While a more efficient engine is welcome, the starting price of the 2025 4Runner SR5 begins at $42,220. Even at this base trim, some desirable features like a larger infotainment screen are omitted, pushing buyers towards higher trims for a more complete experience. Our TRD Off-Road Premium model, for example, reached a hefty $58,318 without the hybrid powertrain.
While the base price is comparable to the outgoing model, moving up the trim ladder quickly escalates the price. Despite the significantly improved daily driving experience offered by the 4Runner redesign, the increased price reflects the overall trend of rising vehicle costs in 2025, a factor unlikely to improve in the near future.
For a deeper dive into our ownership experience and further thoughts on the new 4Runner, you can watch Tommy’s detailed video review.
