It’s been nearly 15 years since the iconic Toyota 4Runner SUV underwent any significant updates, remaining a beloved choice among off-road enthusiasts. However, an all-new iteration is on the horizon, featuring a notable addition: a hybrid option.
Rooted in a rich heritage shared with Toyota pickups, the 4Runner’s legacy traces back approximately 40 years when it emerged as a modified four-wheel-drive counterpart to Toyota trucks. In this latest generation, the 4Runner and Tacoma once again showcase a close relationship, both in engineering and historical narrative.
Scheduled for release in 2025, the new Toyota 4Runner will parallel the Tacoma’s offerings by incorporating Toyota’s iForce Max hybrid system. This marks another stride in Toyota’s expanding portfolio of hybrid vehicles, capitalizing on the increasing interest in hybrid models among consumers, particularly those hesitant about fully electric vehicles.
Embracing Hybrid Power: Toyota’s Next Frontier in Off-Road Excellence
Data from Edmonds.com reveals a notable uptick in hybrid vehicle sales since the beginning of 2023, climbing from approximately 6% to nearly 9% of total new vehicle sales, eclipsing the growth rate of electric vehicles during the same period.
The hybrid variant of the 4Runner merges a 48-horsepower electric motor with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, culminating in a robust total output of up to 326 horsepower. This iteration stands as the most potent offering in the 4Runner lineup, complemented by more economical gas-only alternatives. Toyota’s decision to introduce a hybrid option aligns with its overarching strategy to electrify a vast majority of its vehicle lineup, prioritizing hybrids while maintaining a limited selection of fully electric models.
Alongside the Tacoma, revered among off-road enthusiasts, the 4Runner will join forces with a new retro-styled Land Cruiser, forming a trio of 4-cylinder hybrid models tailored for off-road adventures. While the Land Cruiser exclusively adopts a hybrid configuration, both the 4Runner and Tacoma offer hybrid powertrains as optional enhancements. Notably, Toyota’s Tundra pickup also offers an iForce Max hybrid version, featuring a larger six-cylinder gas engine.
Elevating Performance: The 2025 4Runner Redefines Adventure with Enhanced Features
Hybrid technology not only promises enhanced fuel efficiency by enabling the gas engine to shut off during idle periods but also delivers benefits in off-road settings, as demonstrated by the 4Runner. Moreover, advancements in engineering ensure a smoother on-road ride compared to the current model, addressing concerns about the 4Runner’s stiff ride quality.
Maintaining its functional allure, the 2025 4Runner preserves signature features such as the roll-down back window and distinctive side window design reminiscent of its 1980s predecessor. Offering various trim levels ranging from off-road-tuned Trailhunter to upscale Limited and Platinum versions, the 4Runner caters to diverse preferences and budgets, ensuring a tailored driving experience for every enthusiast. Whether equipped with rear-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive, or permanent four-wheel drive, the Toyota 4Runner remains steadfast in delivering unparalleled performance across all terrains.
