Amid growing interest in outdoor activities, automakers are increasingly releasing models designed for off-asphalt travel. Toyota continues to develop its TRD Pro line, the most capable versions of its SUVs and pickups. In 2025, it was supplemented by a new generation of the 4Runner TRD Pro, which has become more powerful, more technologically advanced, and significantly more expensive.
The main difference of the new product is a new hybrid power plant. The naturally aspirated V6 is a thing of the past: now a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with an electric motor is installed under the hood. The combined output is 326 hp and 630 N·m of torque, which is 56 hp and 187 N·m more than the previous version. The engine is combined with an 8-speed automatic. Despite the reduction in the number of cylinders, the dynamics have improved, and the response to the gas has become noticeably faster due to the electric pickup. The average fuel consumption is about 11 liters per 100 km (19 miles in the city and 25 on the highway).
The suspension is one of the key features of the 4Runner TRD Pro. Adjustable Fox Racing QS3 shock absorbers with an internal bypass of 2.5 inches in diameter are installed on all wheels. A small lift, a widened track and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T III tires have been added to them. As a result, the SUV feels confident on rough terrain - from sandy ruts to muddy dirt roads. Electronic systems help adapt the car's behavior to different surfaces: you can select a mode for dirt, sand or stones, as well as adjust the traction control system.
On asphalt, the 4Runner behaves predictably. The suspension gently dampens irregularities, although large tires create noticeable road noise. Handling is good by the standards of frame SUVs - rolls are present, but do not interfere, especially considering that the car was created primarily for off-road use.
The dimensions are impressive: the length is almost 4.95 m, which makes the 4Runner longer than the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and about 7 cm larger than the standard Grand Cherokee. The dimensions and high ground clearance complicate parking and maneuvering in the city, despite the presence of all-round cameras.
The interior is decorated in the usual Toyota style - functional and without frills. There is a digital instrument panel, a large multimedia system touchscreen, off-road indicators, comfortable seats with combined upholstery and TRD logos. Standard equipment includes locks, hill descent assist, all-wheel drive with a downshift row, mounts for luggage systems on the roof and protective elements at the bottom.
However, the main feature of the 4Runner TRD Pro is the price. In the USA, the base version costs at least $68,850, and the test copy with additional accessories is estimated at $73,388. For comparison, the TRD Off-Road version costs about 20 thousand cheaper, while it is almost as good in terms of capabilities. Therefore, buying a TRD Pro is justified only for those who really plan to regularly go off-road and use the car for its intended purpose.
From the point of view of characteristics and engineering solutions, the new Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is one of the most prepared production SUVs on the market. It combines a powerful hybrid engine, modern electronics and a proven frame structure. But for most buyers who spend 90% of their time on asphalt, this is a redundant solution - too bulky and too expensive.
Toyota has made the 2025 4Runner TRD Pro not just another SUV, but actually a ready-made expedition vehicle that feels equally confident both in the mud and on the highway - albeit for an impressive amount.