2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport – A New Era of Rugged Utility

After more than a decade without a full redesign, the Toyota 4Runner has finally been reimagined for 2025 — and the wait was worth it. This next-generation 4Runner brings modern technology, updated powertrains, and bold styling to Toyota’s legendary off-road SUV platform. Still body-on-frame and still built to tackle serious terrain, the new 4Runner now adds a level of refinement and tech that’s been missing from the aging outgoing model. The TRD Sport trim offers a more street-friendly take on the rugged 4Runner formula, blending athletic looks with everyday usability.

Bold New Styling, Same 4Runner Attitude

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner adopts the brand’s TNGA-F platform — the same one used by the new Tacoma, Tundra, and Land Cruiser — and the results are instantly noticeable. The stance is wider, the lines are sharper, and the overall design feels tougher and more planted. The 4Runner still looks like an SUV built for the trail, but now with modern proportions and signature LED lighting that give it a much-needed update.

The TRD Sport trim dials back the extreme off-road look in favor of a more athletic, urban-friendly appearance. It includes unique 20-inch wheels, color-keyed accents, and a hood scoop, while still retaining the rugged confidence that defines the 4Runner lineup.

Powertrain and Performance

The 4.0-liter V6 is gone — replaced with more efficient, powerful, and modern turbocharged options. The 2025 4Runner TRD Sport comes with:

• 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4
  
• 278 horsepower / 317 lb-ft of torque
  
• 8-speed automatic transmission
  
• Rear-wheel drive standard / Available part-time 4WD
  

This engine is shared with the 2024+ Toyota Tacoma and provides better low-end torque and fuel economy compared to the outgoing V6. The TRD Sport is tuned more for on-road comfort than rock crawling, but it still rides on a durable frame and offers solid ground clearance for occasional off-road adventures.

Interior and Tech Upgrades

One of the biggest areas of improvement for the 2025 4Runner is inside the cabin. The outdated interior has been completely redesigned, bringing in a much more refined and tech-forward layout. Standard and available features include:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  
• 8- or 14-inch infotainment touchscreen (depending on trim)
  
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  
• Available JBL premium audio system
  
• Heated and ventilated seats
  
• Power rear window (a 4Runner favorite, returning for 2025)
  
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 driver assistance suite
  

The TRD Sport trim strikes a nice balance between sporty design and premium features, making it an ideal choice for those who want 4Runner utility without going full off-road warrior.

Pricing and Trim Breakdown

Toyota hasn’t released exact pricing yet, but here’s a rough estimate of what to expect:

• SR5 – Starting around $43,000
  
• TRD Sport – Estimated at $46,000–$48,000
  
• TRD Off-Road / Off-Road Premium – ~$49,000–$52,000
  
• TRD Pro – ~$56,000+
  
• Platinum / Trailhunter (new top trims) – ~$58,000–$65,000
  

The TRD Sport serves as the entry point to the TRD family and offers a nice value for those who want rugged capability paired with refined road manners.

First Drive Impressions at the Texas Auto Roundup

At this year’s Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Texas Auto Roundup, I had the chance to drive the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport — and for me, it was a big moment. This was my first time behind the wheel of the redesigned 4Runner, and my initial takeaway is that Toyota nailed the update. The new model feels significantly larger and more substantial, both visually and from the driver’s seat. The turbo engine delivers smooth power, the cabin is a huge step forward in comfort and design, and the overall package still feels authentically 4Runner.

Check out my video from the event for a closer look at the TRD Sport trim and why this new generation is worth getting excited about.