2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since its 2010 redesign. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this ruggedness with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires, making it seem ready for any terrain. However, the interior showed its age with outdated technology and styling, including an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the interior materials were durable, they lacked the refinement seen in more modern SUVs.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented a significant evolution in design, maintaining the classic 4Runner look while incorporating modern touches. The exterior featured a bulkier, industrial personality with deep beveled creases and flared wheel arches, giving it a broad-shouldered stance. Inside, the cabin echoed the exterior's beveled styling, offering a more refined and comfortable experience. The materials were of higher quality than its competitors, like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, though not as luxurious as the Land Rover Defender. The new model paid homage to previous generations without appearing outdated, offering a blend of nostalgia and modernity.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive with the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission limited its acceleration and fuel economy. The TRD Pro model came standard with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, while other trims offered rear-wheel drive with optional four-wheel drive. On-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration and a noisy engine. The soft suspension, while beneficial for off-roading, resulted in significant body roll and nosedive during braking.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine options: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 317 horsepower and an i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain producing 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid variant provided stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, improving acceleration and fuel economy. The new 4Runner was more composed on pavement, with reduced body roll and nosedive, and offered improved handling. Despite the added comfort, its off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine distinct trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was functional but dated, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats offered ample space, but the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row provided good legroom but limited headroom due to the elevated bench. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a slightly longer wheelbase. While front seat space was ample, the middle row offered only adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped and uncomfortable. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate controls and grouped off-road controls for easy operation. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, further reduced in hybrid models. A sturdy roof rack compensated for the cargo deficit, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner featured a basic infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TRD Pro model included a 15-speaker JBL audio system, but road noise often obscured the sound quality. Off-road controls were located in the headliner console, requiring a manual read-through for full utilization.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered more advanced technology, with an optional 14-inch touchscreen and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Off-road models featured external camera views and automatic camera activation for better trail navigation. A 14-speaker JBL audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and a digital key function were also included, marking a significant tech upgrade.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. It included a full suite of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, but some alerts were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were not yet available, but it shared its platform with the Tacoma, a Top Safety Pick by IIHS. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like frontal collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Proactive Driving Assist feature was included but could be disabled if intrusive.