2025 Toyota 4Runner says goodbye to V6 power for turbo inline-four
Toyota reveals sixth-generation 4Runner in the US with i-Force and i-Force Max engines
Despite the many offerings of Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), Filipino buyers still sometimes want something that is not offered in the local market.
The brand already offers big SUVs (and pickups) like the Land Cruiser, the Land Cruiser Prado, the Hilux, and the Fortuner. However, there are still those who want USDM Toyota models like the Tacoma & Tundra pickups and the Sequoia SUV. While they may be more expensive than what the automaker already offers locally, those who usually buy “forbidden fruit” models have the means to purchase them above the suggested retail price (SRP).
And now, we might see another USDM Toyota make its way to the country via gray market importers. This is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, and it's all-new from the ground up. That's right, after 15 years the automaker has finally decided to retire the fifth-generation model. So what does the sixth-generation 4Runner offer?
Well, it's now powered by a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Gone is the 4.0-liter 1GR-FE V6 as it now gets the 2.4-liter i-Force turbocharged engine dubbed the T24A-FTS. It generates 281 PS along with a meaty 429 Nm of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain is derived from the new Tacoma pickup truck but makes more power and torque.
Those who prefer something with more oomph can get the i-Force Max which is the hybrid version of the 2.4-liter turbo. This one makes 330 PS with 629 Nm of pull and is also connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. RWD models will come with a limited-slip differential (LSD) while the 4WD modes will benefit from a two-speed transfer case and an automatic LSD. There's also a variant that delivers full-time 4WD for added grip at the cost of fuel consumption.
Style-wise, the all-new 4Runner looks more macho than ever. Borrowing inspiration from its pickup sibling the Tacoma, the next-gen SUV features a chiseled front end that's dominated by eye-catching LED headlights, a stylish front grille with a distinct “T O Y O T A” lettering, and a more robust-looking front bumper. The rear also received some minor changes including new LED taillights, a restyled tailgate, and a new bumper.
Opt for the Trailhunter variant and the 4Runner essentially transforms into a go-anywhere SUV. Not only does it get a more aggressive exterior but it also packs ARB's Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with external reservoirs, an ARB roof rack, and 33-inch Toyo Open Country all-terrain tires for extra capability off the beaten path. Other available trims for the 2025 4Runner include SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited.
In stock form, the 4Runner already impresses with an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and up to 233mm of ground clearance. The Trailhunter with its extra suspension setup delivers better off-road figures as well as a taller ground clearance although Toyota has yet to say how much. Should the going get tough, the tougher 4Runner gets several drive modes from its Multi-Terrain Select system which includes; Mud, Dirt, and Sand modes.
Get inside and the interior of the 4Runner closely resembles that of the Tacoma. Since both vehicles are platform siblings, it's not surprising that the two share an almost identical cabin. The dashboard can be specified with either an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. Lower-grade models come with a 7-inch gauge cluster while more high-end variants are fitted with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel.
With the 2025 Toyota 4Runner now available in the US, we won't be surprised if customers in the Philippines are already lining up at their preferred gray market importer to get one. The only question now is, how long will we have to wait before we see one on Philippine roads?
