After an incredible 15-year run, Toyota has finally pulled the wraps off the 6th Generation Toyota 4Runner, bringing a complete overhaul to one of North America’s most iconic mid-size SUVs. The new 4Runner shares its underpinnings with the latest Toyota Tacoma, and by extension, India’s new Hilux, signaling a major shift in design philosophy, powertrains, and off-road engineering.
From revised exterior styling and improved interior ergonomics to new powertrains and off-road enhancements, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is a full-fledged evolution. This guide explores all confirmed and expected details about the newly revealed 4Runner.
Summary Table: Toyota 4Runner
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Toyota 4Runner (6th Generation) |
| Unveiled | 2025 (Global Unveil) |
| Platform | TNGA-F (Same as Tacoma, Hilux, Land Cruiser) |
| Key Design Changes | Tacoma-like styling, updated front and rear profiles |
| Wheelbase | 2,849 mm (Same as Land Cruiser & Lexus LX) |
| Seating Configuration | 2-row & 3-row (Hybrid limited to 2-row due to battery placement) |
| Engine Options | 2.4L i-Force Turbo (278 bhp), 2.4L i-Force MAX Hybrid (326 bhp) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic |
| Top Trims | TRD Pro, Trailhunter, Platinum |
| Infotainment | Up to 14-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster |
| Expected India Impact | Could hint at next-gen Toyota Fortuner styling |
| Official Website | https://www.toyota.com/4runner |
Design and Styling: Inspired by Tacoma and Hilux
The biggest talking point of the 6th Gen 4Runner is how it visually aligns with the new Tacoma pickup truck and, by extension, the upcoming Hilux facelift for India.
Key Exterior Changes:
- Front Fascia:
Revised grille, flared wheel arches, and sleeker headlights give it a bolder road presence. While it is not identical to the Tacoma, the family resemblance is unmistakable. - C-shaped LED Tail Lights:
A new signature design at the rear, complemented by a large roof spoiler and beefy rear haunches. - Wheel Track and Tyres:
Accommodates 265/70 R18 tyres (33-inch diameter), enhancing its off-road stance. - Wheelbase Growth:
Now at 2,849 mm, matching the size of the Land Cruiser and Lexus LX, offering more interior room and cargo space. - Heritage Elements:
Rear window design pays tribute to the 1st and 2nd-gen 4Runner with its upward kink flowing into the roofline.
Trims and Off-Road Enhancements
Toyota is known for offering purpose-built variants, and the 6th Gen 4Runner follows suit.
Key Trims:
- TRD Pro:
Geared toward high-speed trail driving, features Fox QS3 dampers with adjustable compression. - Trailhunter:
Designed for overland expeditions, comes with:- Additional bash plates
- Roof rack
- Snorkel
- Heavy-duty rock sliders
- Platinum:
Focused on luxury, expected to offer premium finishes, quieter cabin insulation, and high-end infotainment.
Interior and Features: Modern and Functional
Inside the cabin, the new 4Runner borrows heavily from the Tacoma in terms of layout and features.
Key Interior Updates:
- Dashboard Layout:
Straightforward yet robust, with tactile buttons and knobs for off-road practicality. - Infotainment:
Up to 14-inch touchscreen display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. - Instrument Cluster:
Fully digital unit in top trims, customizable with navigation, off-road data, and more. - 3rd Row Seating (Selective):
Available on non-hybrid models. Hybrid variants do not get a 3rd row due to battery placement. - Cargo Space:
With increased dimensions and better packaging, expect more usable luggage space even in the 2-row variants.
Powertrain Options: Turbocharged and Hybrid Power
Toyota has bid farewell to the ageing 4.0L V6 and 5-speed automatic transmission that powered the 5th Gen 4Runner.
New Engine Line-up:
- 2.4L i-Force Turbo Petrol
- Output: 278 bhp
- Torque: Not officially disclosed (expected around 430 Nm)
- Transmission: 8-speed Automatic
- 2.4L i-Force MAX Hybrid Powertrain
- Combined Output: 326 bhp
- Uses electric motors to assist combustion engine
- Exclusively offered in higher trims
- Note: Battery placement restricts 3rd row in hybrid variants
These powertrains offer a significant upgrade in both efficiency and performance, especially in off-road scenarios.
Platform Shift: Now on TNGA-F
One of the most important changes is that the new 4Runner is now based on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, which is the same architecture used by:
- Toyota Tacoma
- Toyota Hilux (next-gen)
- Toyota Land Cruiser 300
- Lexus LX
This results in improved chassis rigidity, better crash performance, and more modern suspension geometry, improving on-road comfort and off-road toughness alike.
Tech, Safety and Driver Assistance Features
As expected from a modern SUV, the new 4Runner is loaded with the latest driver-assistance tech and safety enhancements.
Key Safety Features:
- Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Suite
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Surround View Camera (Top trims)
- Multiple Airbags
- Electronic Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Downhill Assist
Could This Be the Next Toyota Fortuner for India?
Looking at the 6th Gen 4Runner’s proportions, TNGA-F architecture, hybrid powertrain, and off-road readiness, this could preview the next-generation Toyota Fortuner for India. While nothing is officially confirmed, it’s expected that Fortuner may inherit the same platform and powertrain family by 2026.
Price Expectations
Official pricing is yet to be revealed. However, considering the significant mechanical and technological updates:
- Starting Price (Expected US Market): Around USD 42,000
- Hybrid TRD Pro / Trailhunter Variants: Could go up to USD 55,000 or more
If Toyota brings similar architecture to India via the Fortuner, expect prices to begin at ₹38–40 lakh, especially for hybrid variants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the release date for the 6th Gen Toyota 4Runner?
Toyota has unveiled the model in 2025 and a market launch is expected in the following months, depending on the region.
2. Is the new 4Runner available with hybrid engines?
Yes, the top trims get the 2.4L i-Force MAX Hybrid with 326 bhp, but 3rd row seating is unavailable in hybrid models.
3. Will the new 4Runner come to India?
While Toyota has not announced plans for the 4Runner in India, its design and platform could influence the next-gen Fortuner expected by 2026.
4. What are the main competitors of the 4Runner?
In North America, the 4Runner competes with:
- Ford Bronco
- Jeep Wrangler
- Chevrolet Trailblazer
- Honda Passport
5. What platform does the 6th Gen 4Runner use?
It is based on the TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, shared with the latest Tacoma, Hilux, Land Cruiser, and Lexus LX.
Official Website:
https://www.toyota.com/4runner
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