2025 Toyota 4Runner Review: Is the 6th Gen a Worthy Upgrade?

Engine and Powertrain

• 💡 The 2025 4Runner features a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo engine (T24A FTS), available in both standard and hybrid configurations, replacing the older 1GRFE.
• 🛠️ The engine uses D4S fuel injection with four port and four direct injectors, dual VVT-i, and a variable electronic oil pump, with a vacuum-operated wastegate on the single turbocharger.
• ⚠️ Maintenance is crucial for the turbo engine's longevity; the reviewer recommends 5,000-mile oil changes with high-quality oil and original filters.
• 🚀 The hybrid system, similar to the Tacoma's, is a parallel system designed for more power rather than just efficiency, featuring a motor and clutch between the engine and an 8-speed transmission.
• 🔋 The hybrid battery is a proven nickel-metal hydride type, air-cooled with filters located in the rear, and includes an alternator in models with auxiliary switches for added functionality.

Transmission and Drivetrain

• ⚙️ A new AL80 8-speed automatic transmission, reconfigured from other Toyota models, replaces the previous 5-speed, offering closer ratios for smoother acceleration.
• 🔧 The transmission is sealed (no dipstick) and shares components with the Land Cruiser 250 series and 2024+ Tacoma, with this model being made in Japan.
• ⛰️ Three 4WD configurations are available: 2WD, part-time 4WD with ADD actuator, and full-time 4WD with a Torsen limited-slip center differential and a dual-actuator transfer case.
• ✅ A rear locking differential is an optional feature, and both the transfer case and ADD actuator use DC motors with mechanical switches.

Suspension and Steering

• ⚡ The steering system has transitioned from hydraulic to electric power steering, offering responsiveness and eliminating fluid maintenance.
• 💨 Front suspension options include twin-tube shocks (SR5/Sport), Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs (TRD Off-Road), and Advanced Variable Suspension (AVS) on Limited/Platinum trims, which the reviewer found jarring.
• 🌲 Trail Hunter models feature Old Man Emu shocks, while TRD Pro models get adjustable Fox shocks, similar to the Tacoma.
• 🔗 The front suspension uses a double wishbone setup with steel upper/lower control arms and an aluminum knuckle, and the sway bar has moved to the rear on some models, with a disconnecting front sway bar available on certain trims.

Brakes and Chassis

• 🛑 Front brakes feature thicker, slotted rotors and a four-piston fixed caliper with a new clip system for pad retention.
• 🅿️ Rear brakes have been significantly updated with an electronic parking brake, replacing the old drum-in-hat system, which is praised for its DIY-friendly design.
• 🔩 The chassis quality is noted as exceptionally high, particularly for a Japan-made vehicle, with a well-finished frame, exhaust, and drive shafts, surpassing even the Tacoma and Land Cruiser in perceived quality.
• ⛽ The fuel tank has moved, and while some underbody covers are now fabric instead of metal on certain trims, the drain plug and oil filter remain easily accessible.

Exterior and Interior Features

• ✨ The exterior design is subjective, but the paint quality on the Japan-made model is highlighted as superior to US-made Toyotas.
• 🪞 Notable exterior changes include a higher hood, revised body lines, and updated wheel designs, with the Limited trim featuring automatic side steps.
• 🪞 The rear features angular styling, new tail lights, and a functional bumper with an integrated trailer hitch.
• 🪞 A hallmark feature, the power-down rear window, remains, though it cannot be operated with the power back door open; an optional power liftgate is now available.
• 💺 The interior feels more premium than the Tacoma, with better-feeling plastics, and offers a choice between an 8-inch or 14-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and physical HVAC controls.
• 🔌 All trims have adjustable headlight height, and off-road features like Multi-Terrain Select can now be engaged in 4-High with an auto mode.
• 🔌 The hybrid model offers a 2400-watt power outlet, while non-hybrid models have a 400-watt outlet.

Driving Dynamics and Value

• 🛣️ The 2025 4Runner handles significantly better than the fifth generation, offering a more composed and stable ride on the highway.
• ⚠️ However, the ride quality, especially on the Limited trim with AVS suspension, is surprisingly jarring and not as smooth as expected for a luxury-oriented model.
• 🚀 Off-road capability is enhanced across all trims compared to the previous generation.
• 💰 Pricing is considered a trade-off; while slightly more expensive than the fifth gen, the sixth gen offers substantially more car, modern features, and safety, though higher trims and hybrid models become significantly more expensive.
• 🤔 The reviewer questions the positioning of the 4Runner and Land Cruiser, suggesting the 4Runner's focus on ruggedness makes it less comfortable than the Land Cruiser, which is also capable off-road.