After living with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner for a month, this review highlights its impressive engine performance, off-road capabilities, and luxurious interior features, while also addressing concerns about fuel economy, interior quality, and pricing.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner has been a topic of much discussion since its release. After owning and living with this vehicle for over a month, I am excited to share my top five likes and dislikes about the new 4Runner. This review will help you decide if this SUV is the right choice for you.
One of the most significant changes in the new 4Runner is the switch from a V6 to a 4-cylinder turbo engine. While many enthusiasts were initially upset about this change, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. The new engine, although it sounds a bit like a food processor, delivers impressive performance. It accelerates smoothly, even at high altitudes, thanks to the turbocharger that kicks in at low RPMs (around 1700 RPM). This engine has proven its reliability across various Toyota models, including the Highlander and Lexus RX, and I believe it outperforms the old V6 in terms of acceleration and speed maintenance.
The off-road capabilities of the 2025 4Runner are remarkable. With features like improved crawl control and multi-terrain select, this SUV excels in off-road conditions. The rear locking differential enhances its performance, making it a great choice for adventurous drivers. My experience off-roading in Moab confirmed that this 4Runner is better than its predecessor in handling rugged terrains.
The new 8-speed automatic transmission is another highlight. Toyota has fine-tuned this transmission to ensure it is always in the right gear, providing a smooth driving experience. Unlike the previous 5-speed, this transmission does not hunt for gears, making it particularly effective when towing or driving off-road. The manual settings allow for gear shifts without risking damage to the transmission, adding to its versatility.
The interior of the 2025 4Runner is packed with luxury and technology. It offers features such as heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The safety technology is also impressive, with adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and blind spot monitoring available in most trims. This SUV provides a level of comfort and tech that rivals luxury brands.
Daily driving the 4Runner is a breeze. It is designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life, offering ample trunk space and power for various activities, from skiing to towing. The combination of comfort and capability makes it one of the most versatile 4Runners to date, catering to a wide range of needs.
Despite the improvements in engine efficiency, the fuel economy of the 2025 4Runner leaves something to be desired. During my MPG tests, I averaged about 23 MPG, which is better than the previous model but still not as high as I had hoped. Comparatively, other vehicles like the Tundra with larger engines achieved similar fuel economy, raising questions about the efficiency of the new engine.
While the 4Runner boasts luxury features, the overall interior quality does not match that of luxury vehicles. Some materials feel cheap, and the door handles, which are frequently used, lack a premium feel. At this price point, I expected higher quality materials throughout the cabin.
The ride quality of the 4Runner can be choppy, especially over small bumps. While it handles larger obstacles reasonably well, the overall driving experience can feel truck-like. This is a disappointment given the luxury improvements made in other areas of the vehicle.
The back seat of the 4Runner has some positive features, such as real vents and USB-C ports, but the legroom is cramped for taller passengers. While there is some recline available, the space could benefit from an additional inch of legroom to enhance comfort for rear-seat passengers.
The pricing of the 2025 4Runner is a contentious issue. While the base model starts at a reasonable price, the cost escalates significantly with higher trims and options. My test vehicle, a TRD Off-Road Premium, came in at $58,000, which feels steep for a 4Runner. Additionally, reports of dealers charging over sticker price add to the frustration for potential buyers.
Overall, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner impresses with its performance, off-road capabilities, and luxurious features. However, it does have its drawbacks, particularly in fuel economy, interior quality, and pricing. Despite these issues, I believe it is the best 4Runner Toyota has produced to date. If you are considering purchasing one, weigh these pros and cons carefully to determine if it meets your needs.
