2025 Toyota 4Runner: Tradition Perfected

After nearly fifteen years of patiently holding its place in Toyota’s lineup, the iconic 4Runner enters a bold new era. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner marks the arrival of the sixth generation of this off-road stalwart, and while it’s been fully redesigned from the ground up, Toyota has taken meticulous care to maintain the rugged DNA that has made the 4Runner a legend. With a powerful new platform, modern technology, more powerful powertrains, and an even broader range of trims, the new 4Runner isn’t just refreshed—it’s reborn.

All-New: Powertrains, Platform, Trims, and Technology

The 2025 4Runner is built on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform, the same architecture underpinning the latest Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and the returning Land Cruiser. This foundation is stronger, more refined, and more capable, thanks to its high-strength, boxed steel-ladder frame and new multi-link coil rear and double-wishbone front suspension. Together, these elements transform how the 4Runner rides, handles, and performs—whether crawling over rocks or cruising on pavement.

Under the hood, Toyota has done away with the aging V6 in favor of two 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder options. The standard i-FORCE engine, available in the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited grades, produces a healthy 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. But it’s the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that truly pushes the 4Runner into modern performance territory. Standard on the TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and new Platinum grades—and optional on TRD Off-Road—the i-FORCE MAX system adds a 48-hp electric motor integrated into the transmission and a 1.87 kWh battery, producing a combined 326 horsepower and a class-leading 465 lb.-ft. of torque.

There’s also a first-ever Platinum trim. Designed for buyers seeking premium comfort without sacrificing rugged capability, Platinum adds luxury-oriented features like heated second-row seats, a head-up display, unique exterior styling cues, and a full-time four-wheel-drive system paired with the hybrid powertrain.

Equally noteworthy is the debut of the Trailhunter trim—a factory-built overlanding rig that’s ready for serious off-the-grid adventures straight from the showroom. Designed in collaboration with off-road component specialists like ARB®, Old Man Emu®, and RIGID Industries®, the Trailhunter boasts 2.5-inch forged shocks, a high-mount air intake, steel rock rails, and an integrated 20-inch LED light bar, along with 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires. It's raised higher than the standard model and even features a 2400W AC inverter and pre-wired auxiliary switches for future accessory add-ons.

Inside, the 4Runner finally joins the modern era with Toyota’s latest multimedia system, featuring either an 8-inch standard or available 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports, and an available Digital Key enhance convenience and connectivity. Safety also takes a leap forward, with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 now standard across the lineup, bringing advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and proactive driving assist.

What’s Improved: Capability, Comfort, and Refinement

The 4Runner's legendary off-road capability has not only been preserved—it’s been refined and enhanced. A new Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism allows for increased articulation at the push of a button, helping to keep tires grounded during uneven terrain. The Multi-Terrain Select system now works in both 4WD High and Low, giving drivers adjustable traction control for surfaces like mud, sand, and rock. The system pairs well with CRAWL Control, Toyota’s low-speed off-road cruise control, which is now quieter and smoother.

Approach and departure angles have been improved, with up to 32 degrees up front and 24 degrees at the rear, providing even greater clearance. An available Multi-Terrain Monitor gives drivers a real-time view of the path ahead via the central screen, making obstacle navigation easier than ever.

Comfort has taken a big step forward too. The new frame and suspension setup provide better on-road manners, and available third-row seating improves practicality. Inside, every switch, surface, and display has been rethought to balance modern sophistication with rugged usability. Features like second-row tumble seats improve cargo flexibility, and higher-grade models come with plush materials and added conveniences.

Toyota has also made significant towing improvements. When equipped with the i-FORCE MAX powertrain, the 2025 4Runner can tow up to 6,000 pounds, a notable upgrade over the outgoing model.

What Hasn’t Changed: A True 4Runner at Heart

Despite all the modern touches, Toyota knew better than to mess with the essence of what makes the 4Runner beloved by its fans. It’s still a body-on-frame SUV, built to handle backcountry trails, deep snow, rocky climbs, and dusty washboard roads with confidence.

The distinctive boxy shape remains—now even more expressive—with a nod to past generations through design details like the “wrap-over” rear quarter glass and the ever-present roll-down rear window, a signature feature that Toyota wisely retained. Designers at CALTY Studio, who also penned the new Tacoma, kept the 4Runner’s athletic stance intact while injecting it with a new sense of Baja-inspired purpose. It's leaner, tougher-looking, and more functional—exactly what a modern 4Runner should be.

The available part-time and full-time four-wheel-drive systems return, depending on trim level. The tried-and-true electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high and low ranges is still here, along with features like Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Auto Limited Slip Differential, and electronic locking rear differential on off-road-focused models.

In other words, despite all the modern powertrains, high-tech interiors, and luxury-grade trims, the 2025 4Runner remains a trail-tested, dirt-loving SUV with no interest in going soft. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an overlanding enthusiast, this new generation is built to meet you where the map ends.

The Verdict: Better in Every Way, but Still a 4Runner

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is everything longtime fans could hope for—a full redesign that modernizes the icon without diluting what made it special. With better performance, improved off-road capability, greater comfort, and a wider range of trims including the luxurious Platinum and rugged Trailhunter, Toyota has ensured the 4Runner is ready for whatever comes next.

It's still the real deal—still tough, still capable, still instantly recognizable. But now, it’s better in every measurable way.

The all-new 4Runner is now on sale in Canada.