2025 Toyota 4Runner Snow Performance Review in Colorado High Country

Initial Snow Performance Assessment

• ❄️ The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is tested in snowy Colorado High Country to evaluate its performance in winter conditions.
• 🚗 The vehicle is equipped with stock Falken Wild Peak all-terrain tires, which are noted as not being three-peak snow rated but are generally better in snow than all-seasons.
• 🏔️ The test focuses on how the 4Runner handles snow, similar to how many Colorado residents use their vehicles for accessing ski slopes.

Four-Wheel Drive System and Features

• ⚙️ The 4Runner utilizes a manual four-wheel drive system, requiring selection of '4 High' or '4 Low', and notably lacks an 'Auto' mode found in many crossovers.
• 💡 The vehicle features heated seats and a heated steering wheel, though the heat intensity is described as conservative compared to some luxury brands.
• ⚠️ A point of disappointment is the absence of dual-zone climate control in this $57,000 vehicle.

Driving Dynamics in Snow

• 💨 The 4Runner demonstrates noticeable wheel spin during acceleration, especially with the turbo engine at high altitudes, but the stability control system intervenes to manage traction.
• 🛑 During hard stops, the ABS system engages, and the performance is described as 'squishy' with the current tires.
• 🛣️ The vehicle's ground clearance is highlighted as a significant advantage for navigating deeper snow and avoiding high-centering.

Drive Modes and Tire Considerations

• 🌨️ The new generation 4Runner includes a 'Deep Snow' mode, which allows for significant wheel spin while providing more confidence-inspiring stability control compared to 'Auto' mode.
• ⚠️ The reviewer emphasizes that while all-terrain tires offer some snow capability, dedicated snow tires would significantly improve performance, especially for on-road driving in severe conditions.
• 🚗 The 'Auto' mode is found to provide better overall traction and acceleration than 'Deep Snow' mode for general driving.

Overall Snow Rating and Recommendations

• ⭐ The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is rated a 5 out of 10 for its snow performance in Colorado conditions, primarily due to its ground clearance and the stability control system.
• 📈 With the addition of snow-rated tires, the vehicle's score could easily increase to a 10, significantly enhancing its winter capability.
• 👍 The reviewer expresses confidence in the 4Runner's ability to handle typical winter driving for families heading to ski resorts, stating it's not a vehicle that would cause terror or leave occupants stranded.