The Toyota 4Runner has been one of the most popular and capable SUVs on the market since its introduction back in 1984. As we look ahead to the 2025 model year, here is everything we know so far about what Toyota has in store for the next generation 4Runner.
Design & Styling
While complete details on styling have yet to be revealed, we expect the overall design to stay true to the 4Runner’s heritage as a rugged, body-on-frame SUV. Spy shots of prototypes show an evolutionary design approach, with familiar styling cues like the hexagonal grille and boxy profile. We can likely expect revised front and rear fascias, new wheel designs, and minor tweaks to the body lines.
The interior should receive more significant updates. Spy shots reveal a larger touchscreen display on the dashboard along with a new instrument cluster. Expect a more contemporary look and feel inside, with soft-touch materials and the latest tech and convenience features. Off-road variants like the TRD Pro will have unique styling touches and color options.
Powertrain & Capability
The 2025 4Runner will likely carry over the 4.0L V6 currently found in higher trim levels, albeit updated to improve power and efficiency. We could also see the introduction of a turbocharged 4-cylinder in lower trims for better fuel economy. The V6 should produce around 285 horsepower and be paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Part-time 4WD will remain standard across the lineup, along with a rugged body-on-frame platform and coil-spring suspension. Capability will be exceptional with available features like a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension. Trail-ready TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models will again be offered. Towing capacity is expected to remain around 5,000 lbs.
Interior & Technology
The 4Runner’s interior will see the most significant improvements in the 2025 model. Expect a much more modern and premium look and feel, with soft-touch surfaces, double-stitched upholstery, and new color schemes. The dashboard will adopt Toyota’s latest infotainment interface with a large touchscreen (likely 10+ inches) and enhanced smartphone integration.
Other interior tech should include wireless device charging, WiFi hotspot capability, up to six USB ports, and Toyota’s latest Safety Sense suite of driver assists like pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and more. Comfort and convenience will be enhanced with upgraded climate control, power front seats, and a premium JBL sound system on higher trims.
Pricing & Release Date
With the redesign happening for 2025, expect the next 4Runner to hit dealers in late 2024 as a 2025 model year vehicle. Pricing details are yet to be revealed but should see only modest increases over the current model, which starts around $37,000. Popular off-road trims like the TRD Pro may crest the $50k mark. Additional costs will apply for destination, taxes, registration, and dealer fees.
Competition
As one of the last remaining body-on-frame midsize SUVs, the 4Runner occupies a special niche in the market. Competition comes mainly from a handful of trucks like:
-Ford Bronco -Jeep Wrangler -Nissan Xterra -Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
Of these, only the Bronco offers similar on/off-road versatility. But the iconic Wrangler remains the 4Runner’s closest rival as the other still-tough-as-nails SUV. Nissan could reintroduce the Xterra to challenge Toyota’s dominance.
Read Also :- New Hyundai Tucson Facelift Breaks Cover Globally
The Takeaway
With strong expected sales and a loyal following, Toyota is clearly investing in keeping the 4Runner relevant. While the 2025 model sees more evolution versus revolution, it promises to bring the capabilities, tech, and daily livability this iconic SUV needs to remain a top choice for adventure seekers, off-roaders, and outdoor families for years to come. With excellent resale values, the 4Runner should also continue to be one of the most cost-effective trucks to own over the long run.
Will 4Runner be redesigned in 2024?
Toyota did reveal that the fifth generation 4Runner will carry on into the 2024 model year. So the earliest the new 4Runner would arrive would be the 2025 model year.
it speculated that the next generation 4Runner could hit dealers in late 2024 as a 2025 model year vehicle. However, that remains unofficial and unconfirmed by Toyota.
Automobile manufacturers generally redesign models every 5-7 years, and given the current 4Runner generation launched in 2010, it would not be unusual for Toyota to introduce a redesigned model around 2024-2025. But Toyota has not made any official announcements regarding timing.
The 4Runner remains highly popular even 10+ years into the current generation’s life cycle. So Toyota may choose to prolong this generation’s run if sales remain strong. Consumer trends and competitive pressures will also impact their timing and approach.
In summary – while 2024 would be a reasonable year for a 4Runner redesign given typical timelines, I do not have concrete insider knowledge on Toyota’s exact plans. We may have to wait for an official announcement from Toyota to learn when and if a fully redesigned 4Runner will arrive in 2024 or another model year. But increased sightings of camouflaged test prototypes certainly suggest a revised generation is in the works.
What is the powertrain of the 4Runner 2024?
While it’s still a popular pick, its powertrain—a 4.0-liter V-6 and a dated 5-speed automatic transmission—looks antiquated next to what’s found in off-road rivals such as the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, and its fuel economy and horsepower are both below average as well.
Toyota has not officially released details on the exact powertrain specs of the 2024 Toyota 4Runner, as it has likely not been finalized yet since the vehicle is still over a year away from production.
Based on the current generation 4Runner, as well as my predictions for the 2025 model year in the article I generated, I would expect the 2024 4Runner powertrain options to be similar to the present offerings:
- A naturally aspirated 4.0L V6 engine that produces around 270-280 horsepower. This will likely be updated and tweaked slightly but should deliver similar power.
- Potentially a new turbocharged 4-cylinder option offered on lower trims for improved fuel efficiency over the V6. Output may be around 250 horsepower.
- Two transmission choices: A 5-speed automatic gearbox for the V6. And possibly an 8-speed automatic paired with the turbo 4-cylinder.
- Rear-wheel drive will come standard, with part-time 4WD as an option across the lineup.
Of course, Toyota could make changes as they continue developing the next 4Runner iteration – but I would not expect dramatic shifts in the powertrain. The 4.0L V6 and 5-speed auto has been a reliable combination that fits the vehicle’s capabilities well. I anticipate Toyota will focus more on evolutionary enhancements to performance and efficiency for 2024. But official details likely won’t be revealed until much closer to the on-sale date. Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Will 2025 4Runner have manual transmission?
Based on the current trends with the Toyota 4Runner, it is highly unlikely that the 2025 model year will offer a manual transmission option.
The 4Runner has not been available with a manual gearbox since the 2009 model year. Since then, Toyota has only offered it with automatic transmission options mated to the 4.0L V6 or V8 engines. This continues with the most recent 2023 models.
While enthusiast blogs and forums often speculate that Toyota could bring back a manual, possibly for the TRD Pro or a special edition model, there have been no credible reports of Toyota actually developing one.
The reasons come down to demand and cost:
Demand: Sales data shows the vast majority of 4Runner buyers prefer the convenience of an automatic. Toyota would have little financial incentive to engineer an entirely new manual gearbox suitable for the 4Runner’s torque and capabilities.
Cost: Developing a bespoke manual transmission specifically for low take rates in one model like the 4Runner would involve expensive R&D costs that are likely not justifiable, especially with Toyota’s increased focus on hybrids and EVs.
So while it’s not impossible, Toyota would need to see strong expressions of interest from buyers to consider a business case for another manual 4Runner. The 2025 models will almost certainly continue offering 5-speed and 8-speed automatics paired with the refined V6 or new I4 engines. But if consumer passion changes, Toyota could possibly bring back the #savethemanuals 4Runner later in the lifecycle.
How much will 2024 4Runner cost?
Toyota has not officially released pricing information on the 2024 Toyota 4Runner. With the redesign likely happening for 2025, the 2024 model year 4Runner should carry over most of the current generation’s features.
Based on pricing trends for the existing models, I would expect the 2024 4Runner to be within about $1,000 of the current models. Here’s a breakdown of what we may see:
- SR5 2WD: Starting MSRP around $37,000
- SR5 4WD: Starting MSRP around $39,500
- TRD Off-Road: Starting MSRP around $41,000
- TRD Pro: Starting MSRP around $50,000
Keep in mind that destination charges, taxes, registration fees, and dealer costs will still apply on top of the MSRP. And Toyota could always adjust pricing somewhat up or down. But the increases should be relatively minor given 2024 will likely be a carryover model before the redesign.
Other key factors on final out-the-door pricing include:
- Trim level
- Powertrain (I4 vs V6)
- Drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD)
- Additional options & packages
Given high demand for the 4Runner, dealers may also still charge over MSRP. But Toyota’s pricing should remain competitive while carrying over tried-and-true capabilities.
I hope this breakdown gives you a helpful estimate! Let me know if you need any other details on what to expect for 2024 Toyota 4Runner pricing.
Is Toyota redoing the 4Runner?
Based on the latest spy shots, rumors and information available, it does appear Toyota is working on redesigning and re-engineering the next generation 4Runner.
Some of the key evidence pointing to a redo of the Toyota 4Runner:
- Toyota is testing camouflaged 4Runner prototypes – likely of the new 2024/2025 model based on the timing. This indicates significant changes are in development.
- The interior, chassis and bodywork are covered in camo, suggesting exterior and interior redesigns rather than just minor tweaks.
- Reports indicate Toyota is testing a new platform that fully integrates body-on-frame and unibody design for improved ride, handling and efficiency.
- The current 4Runner generation launched in 2010, making it overdue for replacement given the typical 6-7 year model lifecycle.
- Competition in the rugged SUV space has heated up with the return of the Ford Bronco and new Jeep Wagoneer. Toyota will want to reinvigorate the 4Runner to match or beat those fresh designs.
So while Toyota hasn’t officially confirmed the redesign, the evidence strongly suggests they are in fact working on the next generation 2024/2025 Toyota 4Runner. We can expect an evolutionary exterior design with more significant interior and mechanical changes to keep this icon competitive for off-roading families’ needs into the late 2020s. More details should emerge over 2023 leading up to a likely 2024 market launch.
Is Toyota 4Runner fuel efficient?
No, the Toyota 4Runner is not considered a fuel efficient SUV. Here are some key details on its gas mileage and efficiency:
- Rear-wheel drive 2023 4Runner models with the 4.0L V6 engine are rated at only 16 mpg city / 19 mpg highway / 17 mpg combined per EPA estimates.
- 4WD models are even thirstier, achieving only 15 mpg city / 19 mpg highway / 16 mpg combined.
- These gas mileage figures put the 4Runner towards the bottom of the midsize SUV class – models like the Honda Passport (20 mpg combined) and Jeep Grand Cherokee (up to 25 mpg combined) are far more efficient.
The reasons for the 4Runner’s poor fuel economy include:
- Heavy body-on-frame truck underpinnings – this older design is much less efficient than modern lighter unibody crossovers.
- The V6 engine is outdated and lacks modern fuel-saving technology like turbocharging or hybrid-electric assist.
- Its standard 5-speed automatic transmission lacks extra gears to optimize rpm ranges for efficiency.
- Boxy aerodynamics produce a high coefficient of drag at highway speeds.
While fuel mileage is no strength, the 4Runner emphasizes rugged off-road capability over efficiency. Buyers prioritize power and traction over mpg. But there is room for improvement in future redesigns with newer powertrain tech.