The next Toyota to receive the hybrid treatment is the new 2025 Toyota 4Runner. It’s finally time for Toyota to upgrade its venerable off-road SUV.

Nobody complained about the previous generation of the 4Runner, mostly because it’s been a charming SUV with the old-school feeling we admire. This generation lasted 15 model years, but it’s time for something new. Toyota has given the hybrid treatment to its trucks and SUVs that have been updated since 2022, and now it’s time for the 4Runner to join the mix.

Here are a few things you’ll want to know about the new 2025 Toyota 4Runner.

Going back to its roots with futuristic qualities

The previous generation 4Runner was the only Toyota SUV using its powertrain and setup. This made it a bit of a unicorn in the lineup, but that also steers it from its roots. The original 4Runner of the 1980s was a Toyota truck with a cab on the back. This new model will be similar to the original in that way. The new 4Runner was designed alongside the 2024 Tacoma and will use the new TNGA-F body-on-frame truck platform to deliver impressive ride quality and improvements.

Out with the old, in with the new

This new 2025 Toyota 4Runner ditches the old-school 4.0-liter V6 naturally aspirated engine in favor of two 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. The base setup is the i-Force engine that comes in the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models. It delivers 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque to the wheels. The i-Force Max hybrid version adds a hybrid motor and gives the TRD Pro and higher trims 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.

Forget the manual; you can’t have it

Although Toyota went to great lengths to ensure the new Tacoma included a manual transmission option, that doesn’t mean the 4Runner will have this feature. In fact, when this new model launches, it will not be offered with a manual transmission. This could be problematic when comparing this Toyota off-road SUV with its direct competition, the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco. Both of the other off-road SUVs have manual transmission options for those drivers looking for a higher level of engagement with the roads and trails.

Two new trims for the 4Runner

When the new 2025 Toyota 4Runner arrives, it will bring two new trims to the mix. These trims are Trailhunter and Platinum. We first saw the Trailhunter trim arrive with the new 2024 Tacoma, giving the lineup an overlanding model that makes it easy and fun to head into the wilderness for several days at a time. The new Platinum model sits at the top as the most luxurious 4Runner in the market. These two trims make the 4Runner more appealing to a much larger audience.

Off-Road upgrades for this Toyota SUV

The new 4Runner brings a full slate of impressive off-road features to make it easier for you to have the equipment and driving capabilities for some fun on the trails. One of the most important items is a stabilizer bar disconnect that allows for increased suspension articulation. You’ll also find a Multi-Terrain Select system that gives you 4WD-High and 4WD-Low , which make it much easier to crawl over obstacles in your path using the Crawl Control function. Some models come with an electronic locking rear differential to add more off-road adaptability and control.

The cabin is much better

One of the biggest changes for the new 2025 Toyota 4Runner is the improvement to the interior materials and technology. You’ll find comfortable fabrics and leather for the seats, along with more soft-touch materials than before. The tech is improved with an 8 or 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. You’ll also enjoy a smart key, push-button starting, and the Digital Key feature that turns your smartphone into a key.

Will we see an electric 4Runner?

Although the Jeep Wrangler has a PHEV model in its mix and might eventually include a fully electric model, Toyota hasn’t announced plans to do the same with the 4Runner. The Toyota EV plan doesn’t include a 4Runner EV but does include an electric Tacoma. If the Tacoma includes an EV model in the future, we can expect the 4Runner might not be too far behind, but nothing is in the works right now.

The new 2025 Toyota 4Runner is on the way and should arrive in the fall of 2024 to be ready for some fun in the turning leaves and snowy areas of the country. Of course, if this SUV is delayed, it might become more of a holiday SUV. Regardless, this new 4Runner is a leap forward, which seems to be the right direction.