Toyota 4Runner Sales Doubled: Facts & Context
Toyota’s off-road-ready SUV, the 4Runner, has indeed more than doubled its U.S. sales in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Specifically, Toyota reported 62,872 4Runner sales from January through June 2025, versus 27,650 units in the first half of 2024 — a 127% increase. The surge is driven by the launch of the all-new, sixth-generation 4Runner, which went on sale in late 2024, combined with the outgoing fifth-generation model still being sold as the “4Runner Heritage Edition� through early 2025.
Why Sales More Than Doubled
The primary reason for the dramatic jump is the model changeover. When a new generation of a popular vehicle arrives, sales typically spike as buyers who waited for years finally make their move. The 2025 4Runner is built on the same TNGA-F body-on-frame platform as the new Tacoma and Land Cruiser, offering modern technology, better fuel economy, and improved off-road capability. At the same time, Toyota kept producing the previous generation for a few months as a cheaper “Heritage� trim, giving buyers two distinct 4Runners in the same showroom. That overlap created a one-time sales boost that is unlikely to repeat in 2026.
Background: The 4Runner’s 40-Year Run
The 4Runner has been a staple of Toyota’s lineup since 1984. It started as a pickup-based SUV and evolved into a dedicated body-on-frame model. For decades, it was known for its rugged reliability, simple interior, and excellent off-road capability. The fifth generation (2010–2024) became a cult favorite because it stayed largely unchanged for 14 years, which meant buyers could get a proven, dependable vehicle. That generation’s sales remained steady at around 120,000–140,000 units per year in the U.S., even as competitors like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler gained ground. The new sixth generation aims to modernize the formula without abandoning its off-road DNA.
How the New 4Runner Differs
The 2025 4Runner is a major departure from its predecessor. Here are the key changes:
- Engine: The old 4.0-liter V6 (270 hp) is replaced by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (278 hp) with more torque (317 lb-ft vs. 278). A hybrid version adds an electric motor for 326 hp.
- Transmission: The old 5-speed automatic is now an 8-speed automatic.
- Platform: The new TNGA-F frame is stiffer, improving ride quality and crash safety.
- Interior: A modern dashboard with an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and available digital gauge cluster.
- Off-road tech: Available features include a front stabilizer bar disconnect (like the Wrangler), multi-terrain select, crawl control, and a 360-degree camera.
Despite these upgrades, the 4Runner retains its body-on-frame construction, solid rear axle, and available low-range transfer case — key attributes for serious off-roading.
How to Choose the Right Trim
The 2025 4Runner comes in nine trims, ranging from the base SR5 to the luxury Platinum and the off-road-focused TRD Pro and Trailhunter. When choosing, consider your primary use:
- SR5 / SR5 Premium: Best for daily driving and light off-roading. Comes with 18-inch wheels, cloth or synthetic leather, and a 2-speed transfer case (part-time 4WD).
- TRD Sport: Adds a hood scoop, 20-inch wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension for on-road comfort. Not ideal for rock crawling.
- TRD Off-Road / TRD Off-Road Premium: Adds a locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select. Good for moderate trails.
- TRD Pro: The top off-road trim with Fox shocks, 33-inch tires, a front stabilizer bar disconnect, and a unique grille. Built for serious rock crawling.
- Trailhunter: A new overlanding-focused trim with ARB suspension, a roof rack, and rock rails. Designed for long-distance off-road travel.
- Limited / Platinum: Luxury-oriented with 20-inch wheels, leather, and a full-time 4WD system. Better for towing and on-road comfort.
If you plan to off-road regularly, the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro are worth the extra cost. If you mostly drive on pavement, the SR5 or Limited will be more comfortable and fuel-efficient.
Common Problems and Reliability
The new 4Runner is too new to have a long-term reliability record, but early reports from owners indicate a few issues:
- Turbo lag: Some drivers note a slight delay in power delivery from the turbo four-cylinder compared to the old V6’s instant response.
- Fuel economy: Despite the smaller engine, real-world MPG is only slightly better than the V6 (about 20–22 mpg combined vs. 17–19). The hybrid version is more efficient but adds cost.
- Infotainment glitches: A small number of owners have reported occasional screen freezes or slow responses, though software updates are addressing these.
- Ride quality: The TRD Pro’s off-road tires and stiff suspension can feel harsh on highways.
The fifth-generation 4Runner had a stellar reputation for reliability, with many reaching 200,000+ miles. It remains to be seen if the turbocharged engine matches that longevity, but Toyota’s track record with turbo four-cylinders in the Tacoma and Highlander is generally positive.
Comparison with Rivals
The 4Runner competes with several other body-on-frame SUVs. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Ford Bronco: The Bronco offers more off-road capability (especially the Raptor trim) and a removable roof, but the 4Runner has a more comfortable ride and better on-road manners. Sales have been close, but the 4Runner’s 2025 surge outpaced the Bronco.
- Jeep Wrangler: The Wrangler is the benchmark for rock crawling, but it’s louder, less comfortable, and has lower reliability ratings. The 4Runner is more practical for daily use.
- Land Rover Defender: The Defender is more luxurious and capable on-road, but it’s significantly more expensive and has higher maintenance costs. The 4Runner is more affordable and simpler.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: The new Land Cruiser (starting around $56,000) shares the same platform but is more upscale. The 4Runner offers similar capability for about $15,000 less.
For most buyers, the 4Runner hits the sweet spot of off-road ability, reliability, and price.
Costs and Value
The 2025 4Runner starts at $41,755 (including destination) for the SR5. The TRD Off-Road starts at $47,500, and the TRD Pro starts at $63,500. The hybrid powertrain (available on Limited and TRD Pro) adds about $2,000–$3,000. These prices have crept up from the previous generation, which started at $36,000 in 2024. However, the 4Runner holds its value exceptionally well. According to industry data, a 3-year-old 4Runner retains about 70% of its original value, which is among the best in the industry. The new generation is expected to continue that trend, though the turbo engine may slightly reduce long-term demand from purists.
Safety and Off-Road Capability
All 2025 4Runners come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. The new platform is stiffer, and the 4Runner earned a “Top Safety Pick� rating from the IIHS in early 2025 (the previous generation was only “Acceptable� in some tests). Off-road, the 4Runner offers up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance, approach angles up to 32 degrees, and a water-fording depth of 27.6 inches. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter add skid plates, rock rails, and upgraded suspension for extreme terrain. One note: the 4Runner’s towing capacity is 6,000 pounds (same as before), which is less than the Bronco’s 7,500 pounds but adequate for most trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 4Runner worth the price increase?
Yes, for most buyers. The new platform, modern tech, and improved safety justify the roughly $5,000 price bump over the old model. If you don’t need the latest features, the now-discontinued 2024 model (if you can find one new) is a better value, but the 2025 will hold its value better over time.
Does the 4Runner still have a V6 option?
No. The 4.0-liter V6 was discontinued with the fifth generation. The 2025 4Runner only offers the 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder, with or without a hybrid assist. The turbo makes more torque than the old V6, so acceleration is similar, but the engine note is less satisfying to some enthusiasts.
How much better is the hybrid fuel economy?
The hybrid version gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined (vs. 20 mpg for the non-hybrid). That’s a modest improvement, but the hybrid also provides a smoother power delivery and a small electric-only boost at low speeds. It’s worth the extra cost if you do a lot of city driving or want the extra power.
Is the 4Runner good for a family?
Yes, with caveats. The third row is available on SR5 and Limited trims, but it’s cramped for adults. The second row is spacious, and the cargo area is generous (48.6 cubic feet behind the second row). The ride is firmer than a unibody crossover like the Highlander, so kids might feel bumps more. But the safety ratings and reliability make it a solid family choice.
Will the 4Runner sales stay doubled in 2026?
No. The doubling was a one-time event due to the model changeover. Once the Heritage Edition is gone and initial demand is met, sales are expected to settle at around 130,000–150,000 units per year, similar to the previous generation. That’s still strong, but not double.
What’s the difference between TRD Pro and Trailhunter?
The TRD Pro is built for high-speed desert running and rock crawling, with Fox internal bypass shocks and a front stabilizer bar disconnect. The Trailhunter is designed for overlanding, with ARB Old Man Emu shocks, a roof rack, and a more durable interior. If you plan to carry gear for multi-day trips, the Trailhunter is better. If you want to tackle the toughest trails, the TRD Pro is the one.
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