2025 Toyota 4Runner Review // Decisions, Decisions

[PDPete]

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter ($40,770 starting in the US, $54,200 starting in Canada )

Trailhunter model doesn't start at $40k, it starts at $68k.

Yeah, that's definitely misleading.

I've read/watched a number of reviews that compare the LC 250 to the 6th gen 4Runner, and it's often pointed out how similar they are but the 4Runner is a "better value" because it starts at a lower price.

While true in an over-simplified way, I think the more accurate way to look at it is that 4runner is available with considerably more trim level options, some of which are certainly less expensive than the base 1958 LC, but once you get into comparably equipped trim levels with the hybrid power train, the prices start to match up as expected.

Toyota can afford to offer the minimally equipped/optioned ~$40K SR5 version because the 4Runner brand doesn't demand the same minimal level of quality that "Land Cruiser" does (even a Prado), and because I'm sure they plan to sell a LOT more 4Runners in the US than Land Cruisers, so it makes more sense to offer a lot more trim level options across a broader range of prices.

I don't think you can go wrong with either one, but I also don't think that one necessarily represents a "better value" over the other either, it just comes down to what you, the buyer, wants.

 

[katekebo]

I went for the LC 1958 for the following reasons:

• I wanted full-time 4WD/AWD for safe handling on snow / ice covered highway.
• I don't care about leather seats, moonroofs, giant screens, etc. I prefer simple, basic interiors.

You can only get part-time 4WD in 4Runner unless you go for the top trims. RWD sucks on slippery roads.

 

[KSea]

I went for the LC 1958 for the following reasons:

• I wanted full-time 4WD/AWD for safe handling on snow / ice covered highway.
• I don't care about leather seats, moonroofs, giant screens, etc. I prefer simple, basic interiors.

You can only get part-time 4WD in 4Runner unless you go for the top trims. RWD sucks on slippery roads.

I have been so impressed with how the LC handles in the snow. It feels like a tank!! I thought my 4R was great but so happy with the LC so far.

 

[katekebo]

I have been so impressed with how the LC handles in the snow. It feels like a tank!! I thought my 4R was great but so happy with the LC so far.

Yes, full-time 4WD/AWD is game changer. I had several AWD vehicles, and a couple RWD ones. My BMW 5-series handled beautifully on dry roads, but a little bit of snow or even heavy rain was enough to make if a PITA to drive.

 

[KSea]

Yes, full-time 4WD/AWD is game changer. I had several AWD vehicles, and a couple RWD ones. My BMW 5-series handled beautifully on dry roads, but a little bit of snow or even heavy rain was enough to make if a PITA to drive.

I had an X5 before my 4R and hated it lol!

 

[No15]

You clearly know nothing about 911's when you refer to, and I quote you, "The IMS bearing grenades on every single 911" now this is being a true parakeet

We all know that the 981 is a better driving car anyway

 

[Dragoon]

Trailhunter model doesn't start at $40k, it starts at $68k.

You're right! I think they meant to say that the base 4Runner starts at $40k. I've removed it from the first post.