2025 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4WD Review

Toyota 4Runner fans rejoice! The all-new, sixth-generation model is here, and I am here to tell you it stays true to its roots, and is every bit the off-road icon it's been for decades.  What to know about this specific review vehicle: It has the standard engine and the optional third row seat which brings seating to seven.

Exterior

Toyota designers did an amazing job on the new model's redesign. It's modern, elegantly rugged and importantly still looks like the 4Runner its fan base loves. There's no mistaking it on the road.

The Limited rides on upscale 20-inch gray painted and machine-finished alloy wheels that look fantastic set against my tester's Heritage Blue hue. It's equipped with LED headlights with daytime running lights LED fog lights and LED taillights. I was really taken with the DRL design. Exterior features include color-keyed door handles, heated, power-fold outer mirrors. There is also a large air dam up front but it's removable.

The optional automatic running boards would be a must for me given the Limited's 8.8-inches of ground clearance.

Powertrain

The 4Runner standard powertrain is an i-Force  2.4-liter Turbo mated to an 8-speed transmission. It delivers 278-horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque which seemed underpowered to me given the 4Runners 5,000+ pound curb weight.  I'd consider going with the i-Force MAX hybrid - the most powerful engine ever for the 4Runner - for a boost to 326-horsepower and a huge jump to 465 pound-feet of torque. I drove a Trailhunter trim equipped with the range-topping powertrain at the 2025 Texas Truck Rodeo and it's the powertrain I'd choose.

My review vehicle is also equipped with optional full-time four-wheel drive and wonderful adaptive air suspension which I'll expand on later.

Note that both fuel economy (21 mpg combined - standard engine) and towing capacity (6,000 pounds - all powertrains) improve with the new generation. 

Interior  

The Limited is the second to the top trim, and its cabin plays the part. It features a lot of soft-touch nice materials and comfort features.  Those include comfortable and cushiony Portobello leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats -both of which are 8-way power with power lumbar support. 

It's also equipped with a leather-trimmed heated steering wheel and leather gear shift knob. There is of course a rugged factor in the cabin too from the large door armrests and silver-trimmed cup holders to the large easy-to-grip dials on the center stack and console.  The driver side lower door panel also holds a surprise: two USB-C ports! 

Technology gets huge updates in this sixth-generation model with a wonderful 12.3-inch digital driver's display with great graphics and large 14-inch infotainment screen that runs the quick and responsive Toyota Audio Multimedia system with navigation and compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.  A 14-speaker JBL stereo comes with a portable JBL speaker.

Dual zone climate gets traditional large knobs and there is nice switchgear for other center stack controls. On the center console, a large dial is where you select your drive mode and Tow/Haul functions.

The second row is roomy with comfortable seats and soft-touch seat backs. Grab handles help with ease of entry.

Tumble Fold Rear Seats make it easy to access the optional leather-trimmed fold-flat third-row or the cargo space. However, I have to say the whole operation of the third row and its cushions is a bit labor intensive, so I would definitely see first-hand how it works for yourself before deciding on the option. While I was ready to call the third-row jumpseat-style seats a kids-only option, it could potentially fit some adults.

Other standard features include push-button start,  WiFi,  5 USB-C ports, wireless charging, 12 cup and bottle holders, and a power moonroof. 

Utility

You'll get a hands-free power lift gate - and yes, the rear power window makes its way to the new generation.

Cargo area is fantastic with the third-row down. A Limited cargo mat looks upscale and underneath you find under-storage space as well.  

Note: a 12 volt and 120V/400w AC power outlet are optional on the Limited.

Safety 

Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist, a semi-autonomous features which is fantastic.  Other driver assistance includes Blind Spot monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert along with a Panoramic View monitor.

Ride and Drive

The 4Runner as expected is built on a truck chassis and delivers a comfortable, truck-like ride with great visibility out the front. Ride quality is really enjoyable thanks to the Limited's adaptive variable suspension (AVS) that's tuned for on-road conditions. It delivers a smooth and effortless comfy ride even over railroad tracks. AVS is also available on the top Platinum trim.

There are six drive modes to choose from, Sport+ giving you the stiffest ride and most steering response. 

Given its 5,000+ pound curb weight, acceleration from a dead stop is a little wanting in my opinion with the standard 278-horsepower engine. But that's just me and there are certainly no problems with power on the highway, merging into traffic, etc.  

Options and What You'll Pay 

Options include automatic running boards ($1,005), a tow-tech package with trailer reverse assist ($400), tailgate LED light ($200), third row seating ($1,300), retractable cargo cover ($135), bright chrome wheel locks ($90), gloss black Roof Rail bars ($420), Towing- Ball mount ($65), and a 4Runner cargo carpet mat ($130.)

As equipped, you'll pay just shy of $63,000.

Verdict

With just one exception - the standard engine - the all-new Toyota 4Runner Limited checks all my boxes as a wonderful daily driver that's the perfect mix of style, tech, comfort and capability. Its Adaptive Variable Suspension is a real high point. For serious off-roading or overlanding, you'll want the Trailhunter or TRD Pro. The TRD Off-Road is also an option.