30 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT 2025 TOYOTA 4RUNNER // PLUS ENGINEER'S QUALITY CHECK
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- čas přidán 19. 04. 2024
- The all-new 6th Gen Toyota 4Runner is stirring the market with gorgeous design and very capable platform - plus it delivered some delightful news such as made-in-Japan label and retention of the sliding rear window. But there are much more surprises found in the new 4Runner - so Automotive Engineer David Chao decided to outline "30 things you should know" about the 2025 4Runner. There are perhaps much more than 30, so we would love to hear from you what else might have surprised you.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Best part of 5th gen to me was the flat rear cargo. I used to have my sleeping pad and sleeping bags ready when I go camping solo. Too bad that's not the case anymore 😕
And… 4.0l engine
is it really truly flat? i read it wasnt completetly flat
it depends on 4Runner Trim. My 2022 5th gen Off-Road is not flat in the cargo area but because I lower the 60 of the 60/40 back seat to sleep when I camp, I use a 1.5" x 24"wide platform that makes it flat for me to sleep with my 6" thick trifold mattress. Easy fold up of the mattress into the back cargo area and the 1.5" platform can remain if I want to put the seat back up into place. Easy mod/works great.
@@bl4runner it’s flat if you have the pull-out cargo tray
@@AA-mk4pureliable yet crappy gas mileage and lack luster acceleration/power.
I am in love with the green 4 runner. Wow. Love the blue one too but that green with the bigger fender flares and dark gold wheels its so unique and tugged looking wow.
David keep up the great work!
Please speak to what you believe the longevity of the propulsion system with and without the hybrid.
I daily drive my current (and former) 4Runners and the reliability and cost of maintaining is great.
I’d love the extra power provided by the hybrid set up but I’m concerned with the life and cost of replacing the traction battery.
Given that I have no option without a turbo I’m not sure I want to add the extra complexity and potentially extra cost of replacing the hybrid battery (or other components) at say 150,000 miles.
I’d like to hear your feedback and expectations (specifically regarding reliability and maintenance cost, long term, for the hybrid components).
Thanks!
I think Toyota did a good job, considering the limitations they faced regarding emissions, etc.; keeping my 5th gen though.
Great job David the videos only get better. So before I looked at the Trail Hunter I was all set to go with a TRD Off Road Road Pro. Now this get interesting the upcoming videos a few months from now will tell us a lot more. Interesting choice though are they still going to offer the Off Road Pro? I probably missed it
It is true that I own a 4Runner and each time I find another 4Runner owner we talk about what an amazing vehicle it is. Still, it is wonderful to see someone that takes such pride in his craft as you do. I believe the 4Runner is a miracle of design and engineering and enjoy your real passion for it.
amazing vehicle it was
Nice review! Loving the 6th gen! Something to add here about the front Bumper/grill design. if you go back and look at 3rdgen post facelift ("fatlip") it also has the double handlebar mustache design....Awesome!
David, In the last year Toyota promised a 4Runner that would 'go back to its roots'. They gave us a 4 cylinder engine but what about the 2 door version and the manual transmission? 🤔
Mike, you know that's not going to happen! But manual transmission would be easy to offer since it's in the new Tacoma.... maybe you can start a forum or petition to ask for a manual!
@@AutomotivePress 😉😉
the manuals produce less power than the automatics because Toyota de tunes the power trains according to toyota asst head engineer for Tacoma's in USA.
And I definitely agree with you about trd pro’s bumper outliner pieces. They definitely had to be more rugged, not easy to scratch able shiny smooth surface.
Awesome review David‼️ 16:08
Great breakdown!! David, do you know if the new 4runners are taller than the 5th gen? My garage isn't very tall, and this worries me. I found a website that said it was about an inch lower, but you mentioned these new models are bigger. Can you confirm if they are taller?
If you covered it I apologize as I missed it but don’t happen to know of the front seating has more legroom and more space than the older gen? Thanks
just curious if they have any pictures of the base model such as sr5? unable to find it anywhere!
LOVE!! How gorgeous. I’m forever a 4Runner fan…
David, Do you know if the Limited model with the iforce max will have a locking rear differential as an option. Toyota’s website doesn’t mention about the rear differential but does mention the locking center differential. Thanks.
Why measuring the gaps when the vehicle frame is twisted for suspension display on a rock? Needs to be measured on a flat level surface for proper trueness
Do you know if there is a Birds eye view on any of the trim levels ? I did see an option for some views while in 4 wheel drive but I'm wondering about 2 wheel drive.
Love the 4Runner. My fully loaded Gen 2 was still the best We and manual transmission. I’m going to get another Gen 5 TRD Sport. Just don’t want a 4 cylinder turbo. Great video as always.
Great video! I would say the back isn't quite land cruiser though, has the wrap around window.
Is the Everest color only available for trail hunter? I’d want to get it for my trd off road that I reserved.
Glad you showed the non-hybrid rear floor height. I assumed all would be raised. What I like with my 5th gen with no tray is that I can carry a bike inside on a fork mount upright, Seeing the hybrid's floor height on all the hybrid models was a bit of a letdown in that regard, as well as loading heavy items. I would be interested in exact measurements between, 5th gen with no tray, the non-hybrid new 4Runner and the Trailhunter, which to me with it's non glossy wheel arches and as accessorized is the one I would get. Also wanted to add a comment regarding the Trailhunter's compressor placement. It's aweful. Cannot believe they placed it low and forward, so if you have a loaded rig, you need to move gear out of the way first to use the compressor. They could have located the outlet on the rearward panel. For some, it may be easier to use an accessory compressor than having to move gear just to use the onboard unit as compelling as it is to have it integral.
David, thanks for all the informative videos! Big fan! You mentioned 3 rows is only available on some trims, is it for sure 3 rows won't be available on the Trailhunter or TRD Pro? This is a deal breaker for me since I want a vehicle I can take off-road, but also perform kid duties (carrying friends). There really doesn't seem to be anything on the market this capable that checks all the boxes. Thanks for the help!
I think they leave the 3rd row off the heavy off road versions bc they dont want people to take families off road with people in the way back (lower head room, bouncier, etc). Just what I heard but sorta makes sense.
Hey David, I these are pre-production models, but how does the fit and finish of this new generation compare to the 5th gen?
Do you have any information or possibilities about the interior of the new 4Runner as compared to previous versions? Specifically for those of us that intend to outfit the inside for sleeping and storage for trips and camping. The Hybrid version obviously takes some of that space. And what about the sliding cargo deck?
The only thing I don’t understand is why the land cruiser is so expensive. It doesn’t come with skid plates or off road tires/wheels etc. given the price point and options available, I would like to purchase a 4Runner in the future.
You're paying for the name and few upgrade
Full time 4wd, better interior and taller vehicle. The models with comparable features (TRD Pro, Trailhunter, Off-road w/iForce Max) will be over 60k, easy.
Can you completely remove the second row by unbolting it or is it welded to the frame?
Is the snorkel functional for water crossing? I've heard it's just for dust.
Do you know if there will be 2 tone color options?
Is the non-hybrid 6g 4runner lighter than the 5g? Would really like to see some weight loss for switching from a v6 to a turbo i4.
The image of the Platinum model , silver colored 4R appears to have a higher clearance than a standard 4R. Will the Platinum and the TRD Pro have an identical clearance?
What is the payload for different 4Runners??
Do you have any additional information about engine type?
Will a manual transmission option be available?
Got to see it in person at Toyota Jamboree last weekend. I did not think I would like it, but the pro looked REALLY good. Still not sure on legroom or cargo space with the batteries, etc, but will definitely take a long look when it becomes a bit more available to get in and stuff.
Also heard a rumor that it would be about 69k US for pro or trailhunter.
What is the measurement of back window across? Wondering if you could fit a 4x8 plywood or drywall out the window? Also to take the rear seats out, is it still just a couple bolts? Do you think there is any danger to sleep on top of the battery for road trips and vanlifers? Can you fit a bigger tire on the wheel that it comes with? How much longer in your opinion will the engine outlast the battery? Can those gloss Pro fenders be wrapped? What is the cost of cross over bars and best ones to get for the roof rank? What is the best undercoating to get? Is it recommended full synthetic oil from factory? Do the backseat door windows have the option to go all the way down or is it always on child safe?
Also, if you know, what would be the cost for a new battery and turbo unit if they go? Thanks
Comparing to 2024 4 runner without 3rd seat, is 5th gen without 3rd seat non hybrid the same cargo volume as before?
Is the driver’s eye point height above the pavement the same as before? (Higher is better).
All these years, I NEVER regretted buying my 4Runner … and many reasons I like it, I want it, I need it.
My question is what differentiates the Land Cruiser from the 4Runner? They seem to occupy the same market space
Has Toyota released ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle and breakover angles for the 4Runner Trailhunter trim?
I wonder if the panel gaps would be slightly better even if it was on level ground and not flexed out. I know it’s body on frame but maybe it still twists a tiny bit.
Does the 6th 4Runner has more cargo space than the 5th Gen 4Runner? if so, how much? Thank you kindly!
There is one vehicle specification that is so useful to those who want to stuff larger bulky items into our SUVs that doesn't even appear in the manufacturer's specifications. This would be the maximum interior bed space when flat and the rear entry dimensions. Please be the one that adds this detail to all of your review information. Currently I would really like to know how the 6th gen 4runner is different than the older one in this regard.
What is the estimated MPG numbers with the hybrid system? Will they, like the Tundra use the hybrid motor just to enhance towing or to improve MPG’s?
I expect it to be almost the exact same as the Tacoma now. The focus seems to be more power, with the benefit that instead of consuming more fuel, it actually saves a couple mpg. I went with the gas 4th gen Taco and with about 500km on the odo I got a proper 23 mpg or just over 10L/100km on a trip to my parents which was about 80km. It’s a lot better than my wrangler with the 3.6 and 8 speed got, so I’m happy.
I still enjoy driving my 2006 4Runner V8 Sport Edition. I would buy a 2025 4Runner if it still had a V8! I have never been a fan of turbocharged engines.
It’s frustrating to know the limitations US regulations have brought to the next generation product lines for Toyota SUVs. The Prado LC and same sized 4R makes no sense while the LC300 is sold across other continents. One can only hope an administration change opens the door for the return of V6 4R’s and wouldn’t a 5.7L LC / Sequoia be a nice upgrade! Until then, I’m keeping the 2021 LC200HE and the 2024 5th gen 4R in the garage and don’t look for these new models to make appearance in my driveway!
You nailed it. So many people are complaining about powertrains accusing Toyota of pushing this. Its government and their cafe standards.
I don’t think any administration will stop the move towards greener cars and EVs
The Hilux uses different variations of the 4cyl turbo, and it is arguably the most reliable and dependable vehicle in the world. Why would Toyota give us an engine that would be riddled with problems, yet those who own the Hilux never complain..🤔🤔🤔
Exactly!
I’d love to have the new LC with the diesel offered in the EU!
That 5.7 is gone forever. You'll never see it return in the USA, just like we'll never get the bad ass Toyota diesel engines everyone else has. The US sucks D when it comes to the good stuff.
Nice
best overall vehicles in the world 4runner for life
Six will not last for life
David, I want to go to Japan and see my 4Runner being built, either mine or someones. Do you have room for a paying passenger?
Hi David ,
I’ve heard in Canada only 7 models would be available instead of 9.
Do you know which 2 models are we missing?
I checked the Toyota website and I guess trail hunter would not be in Canada ?
In which model of 4 runner you can move 2nd row seats back and forth? If yes how much? One of the draw back in 4 runner is the less leg room for 2nd row passengers. Thank you!
The 2nd row does not slide on the 5th gen. He mis-spoke there. The seat backs can recline, but they do not slide.
Cant wait for the mini-land cruiser.
Numero One!
I can’t wait to test drive the non hybrid one and make my decision from there
I love that blue 4runner but i would love a 3rd row just in case i need it
at what speed does it switch to gas mode
Please shed some details around MGP, if you can.
No paint thickness gauge?
I’m keeping my 23 4Runner ORP, until I retire.Which will probably be around 2031.By then we should have a good idea ,how reliable these turbo and hybrid powertrains are! Then I’ll decide if I want to buy a Landcruiser or a GX 550
Will a full time 4wd version be offered? Thanks!
Yes but on Limited and Platinum trims only
Where did the 40/20/40 second row seats go? Will hang on to the 5th gen as long as possible now. Cant have two mandatory kid seats mounted and carry a 2x4 or skis.
I have been asking that question a lot lately. The new Land Cruiser won't have 40/20/40 rear seats either. The new Crown Signia, which seems to be custom built for families who ski, lacks that feature as well. Cost cutting is hitting us everywhere as they keep dropping useful features. The cheapest 3rd generation RAV4 had sliding 40/20/40 rear seats.
What is purpose of the snorkel? I like the look of trail hunter but I’d almost wish to buy a limited w a touch of trail hunter wheels Wonder if possible when come to market. I don’t want need a full blown trail hunter vehicle but more luxury meets ruggedness. We shall see what options are when released
It should mean the engine is waterproof and the snorkel is the air intake
Question is, how much Toyota will ask for them ? Overpriced like Tacoma ?
What is the point of the LC 250? Less capable than a 4Runner and the base model with basic interior and cloth seats costs more than a current TRD Pro.
The most unique part is that it will probably be extremely expensive and it will be marked up, no doubt about it.
Can youbplease explain to me why toyota made the 4runnernand land cruiser so similar. In fact the 4runner comes with 3rd row option, same power traine as in TRDPRO 4runner, 4runner is longer by 3 inches. Is it just the materials in the cabin that are different?
They made the 4Runner, Landcruiser, GX, Prado and the Tacoma similar to save money on engineering and production costs.
@ericmcleod7825 I understand that, but why would anyone pay the higher price for a landcruiser when you can get the same if not better SUV for cheaper. Isn't the landcruiser their flagship SUV.
Still hate the idea of the powertrain (although I-Force MAX sounds appealing). ESP after the massive recalls last August/September. I LOVE the naturally aspirated engine, gas consumption, 17-21 MPG and all! In both my 2001 Blazer and 2023 4Runner Limited.
Bigger in every sense, but ground clearance. Is that correct, sir?
David i think trd pro is the top dog followed by trail hunter.
Toyota tried to save lots of money with sharing many stuff in Tacoma, 4Runner, and (baby) Land Cruiser
Wish they would pass some savings to the buyers but these will be 50k+ outside of the base model
Is the 4 runner gas door opened from the inside or outside?
From remote control😂😂😂.
I’m sure it’s satellite-controlled, except on the SR5, where is gerbil-driven…
A 4Runner with the GX powertrain would be perfect.
Why is Toyota discontinuing the SR 5 Premium?
Are they comfortable? I usually lease bmw's and merc's. I'm thinking of getting this to save money, but if it's not comfortable, I'll stick with merc.
How many gallons is the gas tank capacity? Reg. or Premium fuel?
I've been curious about this too. Nobody has mentioned it yet. Are there any turbos that run on regular gasoline? I'm leaning towards premium for the 6th gen...
Probably Reg
Premium Gasoline and 15.9 gallons
@@007fjcruiser 15.9 gallons is tiny. Cruising range will suffer.
@@centermass3454 sorry it is 17.9 gallons,393 to 447 miles range !
The wheels on the trail hunter are hot
🔥🔥🔥
Any chance David can assess and provide this level of feedback on my current life?!? 🙃
According to his measuring stick, your 🍆 is 2.7mm.
A lot of my decision to buy will be the price. I can't the more complex engine, transmission and electronics not having a price jump.
Best part to know is that it will be unaffordable for most of us. 😢
What the heck were they thinking with the back seat leg room!?!? There is no way you can fit a rear facing child seat. Seams like every reviewer hinted that it's actually smaller than the prior generation. HUGE mistake. Tons of moms and dads want these vehicles, but I don't think they are going to be feasible
I agree. The 4Runner is a better-looking package than the Land Cruiser.
GX 550 vs 4Runner bs Land Cruiser ? Think its GX for me
Such a HUGE miss that B pillar forward it’s just a Tacoma!!!! If I wanted a tacoma, I’d buy a Tacoma! I’m a 5G 4R owner but I see the LC as my next, 4R’s had been somewhat rare and unique in the world of SUV’s but doubling what looks just like it making it a suv Tacoma takes that’s away
The new 4Runner hybrid interior height difference is what exactly? No one has measured this? The concern is both the roll down window and overall height is interior wise is much shorter than the current gen?
I don’t see how large dog size kennel or overlanding builds will work. With Hybrid battery disclaimer stating there can’t be more than 150lbs on the load floor, too? No CZcamsr has discussed this yet. Even the land cruiser interior height is shorter than the current 4R, but exterior is much higher?
Almost no point in buying the Prado with this around
Should I trade my 2023 for the new body?
2025 Best looking 4 Runner no doubt
What about the fact The 4Runner is over 4 inches shorter than the Land Cruiser but it has 1 inch more ground clearance than the Land Cruiser-does this mean the 4Runner feels cramped in the cabin compared to the Land Cruiser since there is a net variance of over 5 inches for the body-higher ground clearance yet 4 inches shorter for the 4Runner. Or does the Land Cruiser feel like the 2023 GX with lots of sitting height in the cabin?
Actually 4Runner is not 4" shorter than Land Cruiser, it's slightly longer in terms of overall length. Actual data: 193.8 inches for Land Cruiser vs. 194.9 inches for 4Runner
@@AutomotivePress talking height-specs say it is 4+ inches shorter in height than the Land Cruiser
The 4Runner feels a bit more cramped in terms of headroom, but since Toyota has not provided actual interior dimensions, we can't verify until the data is available
Taco in the front, LC in the back, ain’t nothin wrong with that!
I’m kool with it.
Front definitely needs redesign. If they wanted to keep this generation long enough for them. They still have time. My opinion new cars front suppose to be removable that attach easily to the main frame. And the grill definitely has to get influence from nature. Like leave, honeycomb, spiderwebs etc….
I’m finding it difficult to justify upgrading from 5th Gen based on looks alone. I don’t like the double mustache front and the back looks too similar to 5th Gen. Also don’t like that interior is exactly copy of Tacoma.
I’ll be happy to have a 4Runner that doesn’t huff and puff and get passed by Priuses climbing 6% grades to get into cooler weather and pine forest.
the 4cylinder turbo is a deal killer for me.
I can’t wait to get one! I know Toyota has done their homework. And the haters can stay away lol more options for me
I feel they missed the mark there's much they could have changed manual transmission removable top etc they have to get new management with new ideas give what the people want
And on the side of the car plenty of space to put batteries instead putting on the floor and destroying flat space after seats folded.
For the for runner after folded seats flat space is must. Otherwise vehicle is not 4runner
No doubt, build quality is spot on. But who's in charge of styling? It looks like it was designed by a child who likes transformers or space ships! Nothing round anywhere. Washing this thing will be a chore. The wheel wells are still square for a tire that's round. I sure hope the wheel well does a better job accommodating oversize tires than 5th Gen because it will look downright silly with small tires. Nice interior but exterior is off-putting. Will look to Jeep next time. Much more mature styling.
I’m just not a fan of the steeply raked windshield. Wish they would have kept it the same rake as 5th gen or similar to Landcruiser. This steep windshield does not allow for a driver pillar handle to be placed while Landcruiser does have one.
The sliding rear window and wrap around rear quarter windows are the real star of this new gen.
Gen5 is a better truck. Yes might not have as great power and might have 17 mpg instead of 19. But you’re paying like 20 k more to get the new one. N the 5th gen never breaks it’s a tank.
Can’t wait for how messed up the availability of these will be in different configurations, in other words various trims offering both hybrid and non hybrid and the dealers making the case BOTH are better to charge a markup lol
Wish this was available outside the US
Instead of saying " The cargo space is huge" I wish you would measure it in inches
I do the same when I describe myself to my gf. It works. Recommended
@@solooverland3666 lmao I'm gonna try this
@@solooverland3666 as long as she doesnt say the same, your good to go!