The forthcoming replacement for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner has been sighted during testing in Arizona, near Toyota’s proving grounds in Wittman. Clad in heavy camouflage, the highly anticipated successor to the 4Runner was spotted by a user on the 4runner6g forum.
Despite the challenges of discerning new design elements, the observed vehicle appears to be larger than its predecessor, boasting an extended wheelbase and wider body.
The white camouflage section, designed to enhance the visibility of the rear lights for trailing traffic, suggests that the new 4Runner may feature a lightbar, a characteristic seen on several recent Toyota and Lexus SUVs.
It wouldn’t be surprising if the 2025 4Runner draws inspiration from the latest Sequoia and the redesigned Tacoma pickup truck for MY2024. Certain aspects around the rear doors, C- and D-pillars, and rear fenders also hint at potential Lexus design influences, although confirmation awaits the removal of the camouflage.
In addition to a more mature appearance, the 4Runner is anticipated to be based on the modular TNGA-F platform, which is also utilized by the Land Cruiser and Sequoia. This shift should imbue the vehicle with increased refinement and sophistication while retaining the ruggedness and off-road capabilities that characterize the 4Runner.
It seems plausible for Toyota to adopt the turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engines from the Tacoma. Various power outputs are available for this engine in the pickup truck, with the entry-level SR5 expected to offer 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims will likely be equipped with more potent iterations of the engine.
For top-tier models like the TRD Pro and Limited trims, it’s anticipated that Toyota will utilize the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine, delivering 326 hp and 465 lb-ft.
While the potential departure of the 4.0-liter V6 may disappoint loyal 4Runner enthusiasts, there is speculation that the new model may offer the six-speed manual transmission introduced in the latest Tacoma, alongside an automatic transmission option to cater to a broader consumer base.
The available trim levels are likely to mirror those found in the Tacoma lineup, indicating the possible introduction of a 4Runner Trailhunter variant. The Trailhunter trim, currently offered on the Tacoma, is tailored for overlanding enthusiasts seeking a durable and capable off-road vehicle, making it a probable candidate for the 4Runner lineup as well.
The next-generation 4Runner is poised to benefit from upgraded technology, including a larger touchscreen, new connectivity features, and other amenities akin to those found in the latest Land Cruiser and Tacoma.
With the current model having been on sale for 15 consecutive model years, fans of the existing 4Runner have only a limited window to procure their preferred model before the new iteration arrives.
