2025 Toyota 4Runner hybrid is a HiLux Surf-inspired nostalgia trip with GA-F underpinnings that's an alternative to the Prado and LandCruiser 300 Series

Toyota USA has revealed the new sixth-gen 4Runner off-road wagon which utilises the same TNGA-F underpinnings as the LandCruiser 300 Series, Prado and Tundra. 

Not too much larger than the Fortuner ute-based 4x4, the 4Runner channels ’90s HiLux Surf vibes and will be built at Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan for the North American market – just like the previous 4Runner. 

Sadly for Australians, Toyota has no announcements regarding the new 4Runner for Australia. A spokesperson told CarsGuide the brand is “continually studying the market for new opportunities to offer exciting new products to Australian customers”, but don’t hold your breath for the new 4x4 wagon.

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This becomes more disappointing when you learn that the 50mm taller Trailhunter off-road hero is outfitted with equipment from reputable Australian aftermarket parts suppliers, including Old Man Emu’s external reservoir dampers and an ARB roof rack.

Designed by Toyota’s Michigan-based CALTY production team, the 4Runner is distinct from the Tacoma with its unique front and an underbitey lower valance. Around the rear it features unique lights and pumped wheel arches. 

There are a few look backs to the iconic ’90s HiLux Surf in the wrap-around rear quarter window and the Traihunter’s sea-foam green metallic paint. 

It's pretty clear Toyota's designers were inspired by the 1990s HiLux Surf – it's only missing the graphics.

As for the Trailhunter’s additions, Team President Kevin Hunter says its looks were “inspired by Baja desert racing, the high lift, lean body, big tire, rugged athleticism defines the core of 4Runner’s go anywhere purpose”.

Hybrid is the name of the game for the 4Runner, with the choice of 2.4-litre four-cylinder based i-Force grunt developing 207kW and 430Nm and the i-Force Max's more powerful electric motor upping outputs to 243kW and 630Nm. 

Toyota’s steel ladder frame GA-F underpinnings are allied with double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension with coil springs all around. The 4Runner is certified to tow loads up to 2700kg braked. 

Inside the 4Runner's contemporary cabin comes in sport TRD Pro flavour (pictured) or luxurious Platinum with leather.

On certain trims, Toyota offers an on-demand sway bar disconnect system, while the 4Runner boasts 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angles. Rear- and all-wheel drive models are offered with a limited-slip rear differential standard. Toyota adds a centre and rear locking differential on upper trims. 

An off-road cruise control (known as CRAWL control) features as well as 360-degree terrain monitor camera. 

The Trailhunter is fitted with 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tyres, snorkel air intake, steel underbody protection, rock sliders, 20-inch LED light bar, 2400-watt AC inverter and grille with bronze Toyota lettering to set off the colour-matched multi-spoke alloy wheels. 

We'd love to see the handsome new 4Runner as a replacement for the existing Fortuner.

Three unwired auxiliary switches in the cabin give owners an easy way to further customise their 4Runner. 

The cabin has a chunky aesthetic with either an 8.0- or 14-inch multimedia touchscreen, depending on trim. Toyota’s latest software supports wireless phone mirroring and boasts both wireless and USB-C charge ports. Driving information is provided by a 7.0- or 12.3-inch display, depending on trim level.  

Three rows of seating are available in some grades, with the upper-grade Limited and Platinum scoring leather upholstery, and the TRD Pro a blend of suede-cloth and vinyl with racy red accents within. 

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Toyota’s 4Runner is 4950mm long, 1976mm wide and rides on an identical 2850mm wheelbase to the Prado.

Toyota has smartly positioned the Prado (LandCruiser in the US) as an expensive option, not far off the luxury Lexus GX. This should leave room for the similarly-sized 4Runner to perform well in North America.

There’s no pricing yet and, as above, the likelihood of the 4Runner reaching Australian shores soon is rather unlikely – though we’d love to see it as a replacement for the Fortuner 4x4 wagon. 

At least the new 4Runner gives more hints into what Australia’s next HiLux ute might look like – including that it’s fitted with hybrid powertrains. Expect the next-gen HiLux (probably sitting on a version of the GA-F platform) to incorporate diesel options, though, and 3500kg.