Toyota 4Runner 2025: Turbo Power Replacing the V6

For over a decade, the Toyota 4Runner has relied on old-school technology to maintain its reputation for reliability. However, the 2025 model marks the most significant change in 15 years. Toyota is finally retiring the ancient 4.0-liter V6 engine and 5-speed transmission, replacing them with a turbocharged lineup and a modern chassis shared with the new Tacoma.

The End of the V6 Era

The headline for the sixth-generation 4Runner is the powertrain overhaul. For years, enthusiasts loved the 4.0-liter V6 for its durability but criticized its sluggish performance and poor fuel economy. Toyota has addressed this by standardizing the i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

While losing two cylinders might sound like a downgrade, the numbers tell a different story. The new base engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This is a direct improvement over the outgoing V6, which offered 270 horsepower and only 278 lb-ft of torque.

The i-FORCE MAX Hybrid Option

For drivers who want more power, Toyota is offering the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. This system pairs the 2.4-liter turbo engine with a 48-hp electric motor integrated into the transmission.

This configuration is standard on the TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum trims. It pushes the output to 326 horsepower and a massive 465 lb-ft of torque. This makes the 2025 model the most powerful 4Runner ever built directly from the factory.

A New Transmission

Perhaps more important than the engine swap is the transmission update. The archaic 5-speed automatic is gone. It has been replaced by an 8-speed automatic transmission. This should solve the “gear hunting” issues on highway inclines that plagued previous generations. It is worth noting that unlike the Tacoma, the new 4Runner will not offer a manual transmission option.

TNGA-F: A Shared Truck Platform

The “modern frame” mentioned in recent reports refers to the TNGA-F global truck platform. This is the same body-on-frame architecture used by the Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, Sequoia, and the new Land Cruiser.

This shift brings several structural benefits:

  • High-strength steel: The chassis uses a boxed, steel-ladder frame that increases rigidity.
  • Improved Ride Quality: The stiffer chassis allows for better suspension tuning, meaning the vehicle will feel less jittery on pavement while maintaining off-road capability.
  • Suspension Geometry: It retains the multi-link rear suspension and double-wishbone front suspension design.

A major addition for 2025 is the available Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism. With the push of a button, this system allows the stabilizer bar to disconnect, increasing suspension articulation for navigating difficult rocks or uneven terrain.

Two New Trims: Trailhunter and Platinum

Toyota is expanding the 4Runner lineup to nine distinct trims. While staples like the SR5, TRD Off-Road, and Limited remain, two new options cater to very different buyers.

The Trailhunter (Overlanding Focus)

The Trailhunter trim is built specifically for overlanding enthusiasts who want a turnkey adventure rig. It comes equipped with hardware from established aftermarket brands:

  • Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with external remote reservoirs.
  • ARB roof rack.
  • 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires.
  • Integrated high-mount air intake (snorkel).
  • Steel skid plates and rock rails.

The Platinum (Luxury Focus)

Sitting above the Limited trim, the Platinum is designed for on-road comfort. It features mostly blacked-out exterior styling rather than chrome. Inside, it offers premium touches like heated second-row seats, a standard tow package, a Head-Up Display (HUD), and rain-sensing wipers.

Interior Technology and Features

The interior of the previous 4Runner felt like a time capsule from 2009. The 2025 model brings the cabin up to modern standards.

Screens and Connectivity:

  • Base: An 8-inch touchscreen is standard on lower trims like the SR5 and TRD Sport.
  • Upgrade: A 14-inch multimedia touchscreen is available on mid-tier trims and standard on the Limited, TRD Pro, and Platinum.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Wireless connectivity is now standard across all models.

The Rear Window: Toyota confirmed the feature fans care about most: the power rear window that rolls down into the tailgate remains a standard feature on the 2025 4Runner.

Safety: All models now come with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Capability and Towing

The switch to the turbo engine and stronger frame has resulted in a boost in utility. The maximum towing capacity has increased from 5,000 pounds to 6,000 pounds.

For off-road geometry, the 4Runner maintains competitive angles:

  • Approach Angle: Up to 32 degrees.
  • Departure Angle: 24 degrees.

The vehicle also features a Multi-Terrain Monitor system that allows drivers to view potential obstacles on the center screen, acting as a virtual spotter.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the 2025 Toyota 4Runner be available? Toyota expects the 2025 4Runner to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the fall of 2024 for standard models, with some hybrid trims potentially arriving early in 2025.

Is the V6 engine completely gone? Yes. The 4.0-liter V6 has been discontinued for the 4Runner. The entire lineup is now powered by the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (standard or hybrid).

Does the 2025 4Runner have a manual transmission? No. While the related Toyota Tacoma offers a manual transmission, the 2025 4Runner is available exclusively with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

What is the gas mileage for the 2025 4Runner? Official EPA estimates have not been released yet. However, the switch to an 8-speed transmission and a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is expected to improve upon the previous generation’s combined rating of 17 MPG.