The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Has Much Needed Updates
We have some good and bad news about the new Toyota 4Runner. The bad news is that we might have to wait a few extra months to get behind the wheel of the next-generation model in 2025. We don’t expect to see it before the Toyota Land Cruise returns to America. But the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid could provide much-needed updates.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid: What to expect
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid will kick off the 11th generation with crucial updates to provide a refreshed, modern feeling. The fifth generation debuted back in 2010, so it’s no secret that this reliable SUV is showing its age.
It has a reliable standard engine. The 4.0-liter V6 engine cranks out 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. It helps the 4Runner accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, which is fine. But it’s paired with a dated five-speed automatic transmission.
Also, the 4runner only gets an EPA-estimated 16 mph in the city and up to 19 mpg on the highway, which isn’t great. But it’s similar to what the Ford Bronco has to offer.
A new hybrid powertrain could add more power, speed, and enhance the fuel economy. The 2023 Toyota Sequioa used a 3.4-liter V6 engine that’s paired with an electric motor to crank out 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque. But it might be too large to fit in the 4Runner.
That would make for a crazy powerful 4Runner. Also, the Sequoia Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and up to 24 mpg on the highway. The 4runner is lighter and could get better numbers.
Update: It could borrow powertrain options from the 2024 Toyota Tacoma. It starts with a standard turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine with 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the available manual transmission boosts the power to 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Higher trim levels with the eight-speed automatic transmission get 278 hp an 317 lb-ft of torque. The Tacoma hybrid pairs the same engine with an electric motor and battery pack to generate 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.
When will the 4Runner Hybrid come out?
We might have to wait for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid. We were hoping for a 2024 model to debut, but MotorTrend suggests that we have to wait for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma to be revealed first. The Tacoma came out in the spring, but its pricing and production date are still under wraps.
Speaking of which, clues about the next-generation Toyota Land Cruiser and spy shots are coming out. Will it deal the next-generation 4Runner until 2025? That wouldn’t be fun, because we feel like we’ve been anticipating the new 4Runner more. The Land Cruiser left America, but the 4Runner is loyal.
Also, the Tacoma and 4Runner aren’t struggling. They are top sellers in each segment, so Toyota can afford a little extra time.
Plus, waiting for the supply chain constraints and semiconductor shortage to ease could prevent production delays. The new 4Runner has been pushed back until 2025, but hopefully, it will be released in the winter.
What do we know about the next-generation 4Runner?
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is expected to ride on global TNGA-F architecture, which is the new modular body-on-frame platform. It should have suspension upgrades to provide a smoother ride over the pavement and enhance its off-roading capabilities.
It could be based on the new Land Cruise Prado that’s coming to America soon. This could push the new 4Runner back a little. Also, after the hybrid model debuts, it could be followed by the Toyota 4Runner EV.
Along with a new exterior look, the interior will be totally revamped. Higher-quality materials will replace cheap plastics, and it’s safe to expect new tech. There could be a new 14-inch touchscreen and an updated digital gauge cluster with a head-up display.
We will keep racking the next-generation 4Runner for updates, so stay tuned for the latest information. Until then, expect hybrid power.
