If you’re more than a pretend outdoor enthusiast, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner 4WD SUV is a vehicle worthy of your consideration. You may sacrifice a few on-road accoutrements with some trims, but will be more than rewarded with its versatility off-road.
4Runner, now in the second year of its sixth generation, comes in nine trim levels: SR5, Sport, TRD Sport, Premium TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro and Trailhunter.
My tester, the Limited, is a well-equipped luxury-oriented trim is a solid choice for those seeking a more road-focused luxury SUV. Powered by an I-FORCE 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the pair delivers 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It also delivers close to 400-mile range on a tank of gas, and 24 miles per gallon fuel economy down the highway.
Hybrid and two-row options are also available. My version seated up to seven adults with a cargo hold large enough to accommodate nine Les Schwab tire bag rolls with the third-row seats folded flat. It also comes standard with a full-time 4WD system with an electronic locking center differential for enhanced traction, adaptive variable suspension, and tow hitch receiver.
For those looking tow larger objects, an I-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain in standard on specific trims, delivering an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. That version offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 lbs., making it capable of hauling trailers, boats, or UTVs with ease.
Drive Select standard modes include Normal, Eco, and Sport, adjusting shift points, pedal response, HVAC, and steering feel. When traction is limited, the electronically activated locking rear differential can distribute power evenly between rear wheels. Downhill assist control helps maintain controlled descents on steep terrain.
Exterior highlights include a “Heritage Blue” coat of enamel which facilitated inquiries by random passersby at my bank and in downtown Everett, 20-inch alloy wheels, a hands-free liftgate along with power rear window, power-fold side mirrors, and a temporary spare tire.
Limited’s interior elevates comfort with heated and ventilated leather-trimmed front seats, available power-extending running boards, 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, JBL premium audio with JBL flex portable speaker, subwoofer and amp, digital rearview mirror, and power moonroof.
Other goodies in the bag include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, Qi-compatible wireless phone charging, and plenty of cubbies to stow devices, drinks, and what have you.
All 4Runner models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota’s suite of active safety and convenience systems.This suite of features includes: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist.
Proactive Driving Assist uses the vehicle’s camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. PDA can also provide gentle braking into curves.
Base Price: $58,850
Price As Driven: $62,875
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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