In Southeast Michigan, close to Toyota’s R&D center, we saw a test version of what will probably be the next Toyota 4Runner. As the SUV got closer to the Ann Arbor highway, two Tundra pickup trucks without their license plates could be seen on either side of it. The fact that it looks and feels like a 4Runner and has a truck-like base makes it clear that this is not a future Highlander crossover. We saw what we’re sure is a brand-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner while driving near Ann Arbor, Michigan. Ann Arbor is only a few miles from Toyota’s R&D center and home for Invoice Pricing. The mid-size SUV is about the same size as the 2024 model. The approach and departure angles and ground clearance show that this is not just a Highlander crossover but an SUV that is built on a truck. This is the most clear sign yet that the 4Runner will be improved, even though it shouldn’t be a surprise. Toyota is currently updating its truck and off-road SUV lines. The new Tacoma and Land Cruiser, which were shown off yesterday, are two examples. The Tundra truck for the 2022 model year was the first vehicle to get this change. Two Tundra pickup trucks were being driven by the prototype, either as standards or to help with the development journey. The 2025 4Runner is likely to be based on the mid-size Tacoma pickup truck. The Tacoma and the Tundra share the same GA-F body-on-frame chassis, though. We don’t know much about Tacoma’s engine, but it will have a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 228 to 278 horsepower and a hybrid system with up to 326 horsepower. There will likely be a TRD Pro model level and a lot of off-road goodies. Four-wheel drive is also a given. It is planned that the 2025 4Runner will be shown off later this year and go on sale early next year. Because of where the 4Runner fits in Toyota’s range, prices won’t go up much from the $41,600 starting price of the current model. When the next wave of off-road vehicles comes out, we’ll be sure to keep a close eye on the roads near our home office for any other signs of what’s to come.
