After more than 15 years without a full redesign, the Toyota 4Runner finally enters a new era with the 2025 4Runner TRD Pro. Toyota has managed to modernize its beloved SUV without sacrificing the rugged character that has made it a staple for outdoor enthusiasts and off-road adventurers. Built on the TNGA-F platform shared with the Land Cruiser, Tacoma, and Tundra, the latest 4Runner keeps its body-on-frame design, making it more durable and trail-ready than most midsize SUVs on the market.
On the outside, the TRD Pro trim looks every bit the part of a serious off-road machine. It comes standard with 33-inch all-terrain tires, distinctive wheels, and a heritage-inspired grille with TOYOTA lettering that nods to the brand’s past. Toyota also fitted it with Fox QS3 internal bypass shocks and a unique electronic disconnecting front anti-roll bar, boosting its already impressive capability. With 10.1-inches of ground clearance, skid plates, and aggressive styling, the TRD Pro is positioned at the top of the class for off-road performance.
Powertrain updates mark one of the biggest changes for 2025. Gone is the aging 4.0-liter V6, replaced by a modern turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. For the TRD Pro, Toyota goes a step further with the i-Force Max hybrid system, which pairs the four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid setup not only improves performance but also bumps fuel economy to a respectable 23 mpg combined, a big step up from the outgoing 4Runner’s thirsty V6. Both engines are paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission, offering smoother shifts and better efficiency.
Behind the wheel, the improvements are immediately noticeable. The old model’s pronounced nose dive under braking is gone, replaced with better body control and a smoother, more comfortable ride. The new suspension setup makes the TRD Pro far more livable on paved streets while still being ready to tackle rocky trails and muddy backroads.
Steering is quicker than before, which makes the SUV more fun to drive, although enthusiasts may wish for more steering feedback. Highway cruising is also more pleasant, with a quieter cabin that reduces wind and road noise, making long trips easier on both driver and passengers.
Step inside, and the cabin feels far more modern than the outgoing generation. The TRD Pro comes standard with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a massive 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Rear legroom has been improved, giving passengers in the second row more comfort, while standard features like a heated steering wheel add convenience. That said, the 4Runner’s interior still leans heavily on hard plastics, which may disappoint buyers looking for a more premium feel.
There are also some compromises that come with the hybrid system. The 0.9-kWh battery pack is mounted under the cargo floor, which raises the liftover height, reduces overall cargo capacity, and means the TRD Pro does not offer a third-row option. Shoppers who need more passenger space will need to look at non-hybrid versions of the 4Runner.
Pricing for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro starts at $68,895, which places it at the higher end of the midsize SUV market. But for buyers seeking a vehicle that combines modern technology, improved comfort, and serious off-road capability, the TRD Pro delivers on nearly every front. It may be pricey, but it’s also one of the most capable and rugged SUVs you can buy today.
The wait for a new 4Runner was long, but with its blend of old-school toughness and modern updates, the 2025 4Runner TRD Pro proves it was worth it.
