Nothing lasts forever, not even the production of the current-generation 4Runner. It was introduced back in 2008 and it remained active until now, with minimal modifications. What’s more intriguing is that sales have been better than ever in the last few years, which may be one of the reasons for the company’s hesitation to offer the next generation. Well, this will finally happen and the next generation will bring so much-needed updates in various aspects, including the powertrain, which will be electrified for the first time in a 4Runner. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is coming next year. It will feature a new powertrain, way more capable and way more efficient than the old V6.
The most interesting part of this particular version will be the hybrid powertrain, which will be borrowed from the recently presented Tacoma. Of course, big novelties will come in other aspects as well, starting from a completely new design, a much nicer interior, new tech features and many more.
We believe that the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid could debut sometime in the next year.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Powertrain
In this particular case, there is no doubt that the most interesting part will be the powertrain. Old and thirsty 4.0-liter V6 will soon become history and the replacement will come in the form of a brand-new hybrid system, which has just debuted in the next-generation Tundra. We count on pretty much the same specs, whether it’s about batteries, power figures etc.
So, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid will feature a system based on a 2.4-liter turbo-four engine. It comes in a combination with a single electric motor. We presume that the power figures will be the same or very similar to the new Tacoma. So, expect a max output of 326 horsepower and quite an impressive 465 pound-feet of torque. Another big upgrade will be a new transmission. Instead of the antique 5-speed unit, the new 4Runner will get an 8-speed automatic transmission.
When we compare power figures with the old V6 and, especially, the max torque, it’s obvious that the driving dynamics will be way better. We also count on significantly better fuel economy. The current engine returns quite disappointing 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
Next-Gen and Redesign
In terms of the overall design, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid will share pretty much all of the parts with the rest of the lineup. It is expected to include a standard gas-only version on offer as well. The new generation will ride on a new platform. It is the latest iteration of the TNGA-F architecture, with significant improvement in terms of the chassis design. The new model should bring better torsional rigidity, along with a completely new, more refined suspension setup.
The benefits of the new platform will also translate to a lower center of gravity and, therefore, much nicer on-road manners. Still, that doesn’t mean that the new generation is about to sacrifice any of its off-road potential. Moreover, we expect further improvements in this aspect, starting from the same suspension upgrades we saw in the new Tacoma. This could also mean an introduction of the 4Runner Trailhunter. That model will represent another off-road version of the SUV, with huge overlanding aspirations.
Interior
As for the interior design, some details are yet to be clarified. However, we presume that the new generation won’t feature significantly different proportions compared to the current model. This means that the amount of passenger space shouldn’t be significantly different either. This indicates that the base models would continue with five seats, while the third row would be available. It wouldn’t be particularly spacious and comfortable but on the other hand, we count on a pretty generous cargo area, just like in the outgoing generation.
As for the dashboard design and overall interior aesthetics, we presume that there is going to be a lot of influence from the new Tacoma, which recently presented a completely new cabin design, with a Tundra-like bold design approach and way nicer materials than before. The cabin is also full of the latest tech features, including the optional 14-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The 4Runner TRD Pro will carry on, of course, but with some interesting novelties. The hybrid powertrain will be one of them. We also count on the same seats as in the Tacoma TRD Pro. That model is coming with the brand-new IsoDynamic Performance Seats that use air-over-coil shock absorbers, in order to keep the head and neck aligned with the spine during heavy off-roading.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid will arrive sometime in the next year. Most likely, a hybrid powertrain will be reserved for higher trim levels. So, we don’t believe it could cost under 50.000 dollars.