THE long-awaited upgrade to Toyota’s 4Runner series has finally arrived — but the SUV’s new hybrid engine and other dazzling features do not make up for one blaring oversight.
Toyota‘s 2025 line of 4Runner SUVs seem to have it all, from a turbocharged engine and off-roading features to powerlift capabilities and more.
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“The new generation introduces a bold new look and adds new technology, premium materials, options, and safety,” according to a press release shared on Tuesday.
The series, which is set to arrive in the US in the fall, will feature a hybrid engine for the first time.
“The all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner stays true to its original concept, as an extremely capable, dynamic, and durable off-roader and will continue to provide owners a window to bigger worlds.”
Similar in style to previous 4Runners but with a more modern design akin to the Toyota Tacoma, the new line even offers “Platinum” and “Trailhunter” trims.
“This all-new 4Runner has incredible versatility and capability that nicely rounds out our truck family,” said Dave Christ, Toyota group vice president and general manager.
“We’ve sold over 3 million 4Runners over the past 40 years, and this sixth-generation model offers a cool new look and incredible features yet retains the rugged style and capability our customers love about this adventure icon.”
The new design will be built in Toyota Motor Corporation’s Tahara plant in Japan and will be capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds.
It’s also set to feature new multimedia touchscreen displays (either 8-inch or 14-inch) which will support wireless Apple CarPlay® and a Smart Key System with push-button start is standard on all grades.
ALMOST PERFECT
But despite the tech-savvy upgrades, some 4Runner fans pointed out the one feature that has been missing from the series for years.
“Why can’t Toyota make the screen integrated with the dash,” one driver wrote on X.
“I swear, every vehicle they make is like, ‘Ah, nuts. We forgot the LCD again.’ Just slap one on the dashboard.”
The company touts the 2025 4Runner as offering up to “14-inch touchscreen displays [with the] latest Toyota Audio Multimedia,” but the screen is not embedded in the dashboard.
Instead, it is propped up in the middle of the console, making it easy for drivers to swap between the 8-inch and 14-inch screen size options.
The screens are packed full of technology, offering drivers a number of charging ports, connectivity options, and viewing preferences.
The tech does not make up for the lack of a streamlined dashboard or other big improvements for some fans, however.
“Looks the same to me. What a disappointment,” another driver wrote about the new series on X.
Others, however, were pleased with the new model, with one person calling it their “dream vehicle.”
“I’m in love,” one driver wrote on X.
“I like the 4Runner better than Tacoma here,” someone else added.
Over three million 4Runners have been sold since debuting 40 years ago, according to Toyota.
The new 2025 series will go on sale in the US in the fall of 2024.
