Is The 2025 Toyota 4Runner The Best Off-Road And Towing SUV?

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner arrived with a bold redesign that marks a new era for the legendary midsize SUV. Built on Toyota’s robust TNGA-F body-on-frame platform (shared with the Tundra and Land Cruiser), the new 4Runner combines modern technology with rugged durability. 

After years of minimal updates, this sixth-generation model finally embraces a hybrid powertrain, updated styling, and significantly improved performance. For drivers who rely on their SUV for both utility and adventure, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner towing capacity is a major highlight, offering impressive strength for trailers, boats, and campers alike. 

At the same time, Toyota hasn’t forgotten its off-road roots. With available trims like the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and the all-new Trailhunter, the 4Runner is more trail-ready than ever. This article takes a deep dive into how the redesigned 4Runner balances powerful towing capabilities with legendary off-road performance to meet the demands of modern explorers.

2025 Toyota 4Runner: What's New?

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner represents a major transformation for one of Toyota’s longest-running nameplates. After more than a decade on the same platform, the sixth-generation 4Runner rides on the automaker’s modern TNGA-F body-on-frame platform, which also underpins rugged models like the Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia. 

This switch brings dramatic improvements in structural rigidity, ride quality, and off-road performance. Combined with advanced suspension engineering, the 4Runner now strikes a better balance between everyday drivability and rugged trail-conquering ability.

One of the biggest changes is under the hood. 

Toyota has dropped the aging 4.0-liter V6 engine in favor of a more efficient yet more powerful turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The standard engine is the i-FORCE 2.4L turbo, but higher trims—like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter—get the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, which pairs the turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a combined output of around 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. 

This massive torque figure isn’t just good for performance. It plays a vital role in boosting the 2025 Toyota 4Runner towing capacity.

Trim levels for 2025 reflect Toyota’s strategy of offering something for every type of SUV buyer. The lineup includes SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Platinum, and two off-road-oriented heroes: the TRD Pro and the all-new Trailhunter. 

The Trailhunter is aimed squarely at overlanding enthusiasts, featuring a factory-built setup with Old Man Emu shocks, 33-inch all-terrain tires, skid plates, rock rails, a roof rack, and a 2400-watt AC inverter.

Inside, the 2025 4Runner finally steps into the modern era.

The cabin features an available 14-inch touchscreen with Toyota’s latest infotainment interface, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. 

Premium materials, new seating designs, better sound insulation, and added creature comforts like a panoramic moonroof and ventilated front seats make it a more compelling daily driver.

Altogether, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner blends modern power and tech with classic utility. From the redesigned frame and new hybrid engine to the off-road trims and upscale interior, Toyota has reimagined the 4Runner without losing the rugged DNA that made it a fan favorite for decades.

2025 Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity By Trim

The 2025 4Runner towing capacity plays a key role in the SUV’s versatility appeal. Thanks to its updated engine lineup and body-on-frame construction, the new 4Runner is better equipped than ever to handle trailers, campers, boats, and more. 

Planning weekend adventures or need a dependable SUV for utility tasks, Toyota offers a trim to match your towing needs. The base 2.4-liter i-FORCE turbocharged four-cylinder engine, shared with the Tacoma, delivers strong performance and respectable towing power. 

For buyers seeking the most towing capability, the available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain—standard on higher trims like the TRD Pro and Limited—boosts both torque and efficiency. 

With this setup, the maximum towing capacity reaches approximately 6,000 pounds, a significant upgrade over the outgoing V6 model.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of towing capacity by trim level:

The SR5 and TRD Off-Road trims offer solid towing capability around 5,000 pounds—ideal for small trailers and recreational gear. 

If you need to haul larger loads, the Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid deliver significantly more muscle, with an estimated 6,000-pound towing capacity. This makes the hybrid-powered 4Runner a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, especially among adventure-oriented buyers.

How The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Towing Capacity Compares To Competitors

In the competitive midsize SUV segment, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner towing capacity stands out alongside key rivals like the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Chevrolet Tahoe. With its redesigned frame, hybrid powertrain, and enhanced engineering, the 2025 4Runner brings a fresh balance of utility and innovation to the table.

Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler, long considered a go-to off-roader, offers a towing capacity ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 pounds, depending on configuration. The Wrangler Rubicon 4-door with the 3.6L V6 or 2.0L turbo maxes out at 3,500 lbs, while the Rubicon 392 and diesel variants reach 5,000 lbs. 

In comparison, the 2025 4Runner achieves up to 6,000 lbs when equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid. This gives the Toyota a clear edge in towing performance, especially for drivers who need both off-road capability and utility.

Toyota 4Runner vs. Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco—another off-road icon—offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs on most trims, with the four-door models capable of up to 4,500 lbs in select configurations. While the Bronco is more than capable on the trails, its towing specs fall short of the 4Runner’s, especially in hybrid form. 

The hybrid torque output of 465 lb-ft in the 4Runner plays a major role here, providing significantly more low-end power and pulling capability than any Bronco variant.

Toyota 4Runner vs. Chevy Tahoe

Although technically a full-size SUV, the Chevy Tahoe is often cross-shopped by buyers needing serious towing strength. The Tahoe, depending on engine and drivetrain, can tow between 7,600 and 8,400 lbs. 

While the Tahoe clearly wins on max towing, it also comes with a larger footprint, higher price, and lower off-road agility than the 4Runner. For those prioritizing a mid-size SUV with rugged ability and solid towing, the 4Runner hits a sweet spot.

Hybrid Torque And Towing Stability

The 2025 4Runner’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system isn’t just about fuel economy. It delivers instant electric torque, improving both launch performance when towing and low-speed control in off-road or hilly conditions. Combined with its robust TNGA-F frame and advanced suspension tuning, the 4Runner ensures stable towing dynamics, even on uneven terrain.

4Runner's Towing Features That Matter

• Integrated trailer brake controller
• Tow-Haul mode
• Multi-terrain monitor and backup assist
• Class IV towing hitch receiver and wiring harness

Beyond raw numbers, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner towing capacity is supported by a suite of features that make hauling safer, smoother, and more confident—especially on rugged terrain or in tight spaces. Whether you’re trailering a camper to the mountains or hauling gear for a weekend adventure, Toyota has equipped the new 4Runner with the tools that matter most.

Integrated Trailer Brake Controller

One of the standout additions is the integrated trailer brake controller, available on models with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. This system allows drivers to adjust trailer braking force from inside the cabin, improving stability and stopping power when towing heavy loads. It’s particularly useful for preventing trailer sway during downhill braking or emergency stops.

Tow Haul Mode

Complementing this is the Tow/Haul mode, which optimizes transmission shift points and throttle response to deliver more controlled towing performance. It keeps the 4Runner in lower gears longer when needed, reducing gear hunting and improving power delivery—especially when climbing hills or managing steep descents.

Multi-Terrain Monitor

For trailering in tricky terrain or backing up in tight campsites, the Multi-Terrain Monitor offers a helpful edge. This system provides a real-time view of your surroundings, including underbody and side angles, to help you avoid obstacles. Paired with backup assist features, it makes maneuvering with a trailer far less stressful.

Towing Hitch Receiver

At the hardware level, the 2025 4Runner comes with a Class IV towing hitch receiver, pre-wired with a 4- and 7-pin wiring harness, making it truly tow-ready right off the lot. You won’t need to install any aftermarket towing packages or adapters to get started.

Altogether, these thoughtful features make the 2025 4Runner towing capacity more usable and accessible, especially for drivers who want a balance of off-road confidence and towing ease without stepping up to a full-size truck.

2025 Toyota 4Runner Off-Road Capability

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner off-road capabilities are significantly enhanced thanks to its updated platform, specialized off-road trims, and proven trail technologies. Built on the TNGA-F body-on-frame architecture, the new 4Runner maintains its rugged identity while gaining modern off-road hardware and software.

Three trims focus specifically on off-road performance: TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and the all-new Trailhunter.

The TRD Off-Road trim includes a rear locking differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control. These systems help optimize traction and throttle response across varying conditions such as sand, mud, rock, and snow.

The TRD Pro goes further with FOX internal bypass shocks, front and rear skid plates, and upgraded all-terrain tires, making it ideal for high-speed desert running and rugged trails. It also features a more aggressive suspension setup and increased articulation.

The new Trailhunter trim caters to overlanders with Old Man Emu shocks, rock rails, and extra underbody protection. It’s equipped for extended off-grid travel, with factory upgrades that reduce the need for aftermarket modifications.

Ground clearance, approach, and departure angles are all improved from the previous generation, though exact figures vary slightly by trim. The TNGA-F platform allows better wheel travel and chassis rigidity, resulting in improved ride quality and durability off-road.

Additional features like skid plates, off-road-tuned suspension, and terrain-specific driving modes make the 2025 4Runner capable across diverse environments—from rock crawling to muddy forest trails. Each off-road trim includes hill descent control and multi-view cameras, assisting with obstacle navigation and tight turns.

In short, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner off-road capabilities are among the best in the midsize SUV class, thanks to a combination of mechanical robustness and advanced trail tech tailored to each off-road-focused trim.

Real-World Use: Towing And Off-Roading Scenarios

In real-world scenarios, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner proves to be a dual-purpose machine—ideal for towing and off-road exploration. Thanks to its 6,000-pound towing capacity (when equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid), the new 4Runner handles a variety of common towing needs with ease.

Imagine hitching up a 17-foot fiberglass fishing boat (typically weighing 2,500–3,500 lbs including trailer) and heading to the lake for the weekend. The integrated trailer brake controller and Tow/Haul mode ensure a stable highway ride, while the Multi-Terrain Monitor helps back the trailer down the boat ramp with precision.

Planning a backcountry camping trip? The 2025 4Runner can tow lightweight campers and teardrop trailers weighing under 5,000 lbs, such as the Forest River R-Pod or the Airstream Basecamp. Once you reach the trailhead, unhitch the camper and engage Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select in the TRD Pro or Trailhunter trim to continue deeper into the wild.

For utility work or weekend projects, the 4Runner also handles utility trailers loaded with tools, ATVs, or landscaping gear without stress. With the Class IV hitch and 7-pin wiring, trailering is plug-and-play.

Off-road towing is another strong suit. For example, a 4Runner Trailhunter can tow a small expedition trailer loaded with water, supplies, and rooftop tents into remote terrain. The rear locker, all-terrain tires, and Old Man Emu shocks keep the SUV and trailer stable over rocks and ruts.

Launching a boat, hauling gear, or towing your basecamp into the wild; the 2025 4Runner is built for it. Its unique strength lies in its ability to transition seamlessly from paved roads to rugged trails, offering users a rare level of versatility and confidence in real-world towing and off-road scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions About The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's Towing Capacity

What is the towing capacity of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner?

The towing capacity of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner ranges from approximately 5,000 pounds to 6,000 pounds, depending on the engine and trim. Models equipped with the standard i-FORCE 2.4L turbo engine can tow up to 5,000 lbs, while trims with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain can tow up to 6,000 lbs.

Which 2025 4Runner trim has the highest towing capacity?

The 2025 4Runner trims with the highest towing capacity are the TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Limited—all equipped with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine and 4WD. These trims offer a maximum towing capacity of approximately 6,000 lbs, making them the best choice for heavy-duty towing.

Is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner good for off-roading?

Yes, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is highly capable off-road. Off-road-focused trims like the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and new Trailhunter come with features such as Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, rear locking differential, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and off-road-tuned suspension (FOX or Old Man Emu shocks), making them ideal for rugged trails, rock crawling, and overlanding.

Can the 2025 4Runner tow a camper or boat?

Absolutely. The 2025 4Runner can tow lightweight campers, trailers, and boats. With up to 6,000 pounds of towing capacity, it can handle teardrop campers, small Airstreams, utility trailers, and 17–20 ft fishing boats, making it a practical choice for adventurers who need both towing strength and off-road versatility.