Fans of Toyota celebrate the 4Runner among midsize SUVs for its potential to excel with off-road adventures and heavy-duty hauling abilities. Toyota launched the 2025 4Runner featuring modern styling and a new powertrain system and upgraded towing capabilities. The 2025 4Runner towing capabilities differ from past generations while featuring new engine features.
The most recent information on the 4Runner’s towing features and handling along with their meaning for off-roaders and weekend adventurers comes from the Toyota Newsroom. Toyota Newsroom).
New Engine, New Towing Numbers
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner ends its legacy of using a 4.0L V6 engine when it introduces a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder i-FORCE powertrain available in the Tacoma and Toyota Highlander.
• Horsepower: 278 hp
• Torque: 317 lb-ft
• Max Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs. (i-FORCE engine)
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or part-time 4WD
Compared to the 2024 4Runner’s 5,000 lbs towing capability the new 2025 model surpasses it with 6,000 lbs capacity. The updated engine generates substantial torque which provides enhanced control when you need to tow your vehicle uphill in rough conditions.
2025 4Runner Towing Capacity by Trim
The 2025 model of Toyota 4Runner becomes available in multiple trim options with different towing capabilities which vary based on drivetrain type and equipment specification.
| Trim Level | Engine | Drivetrain | Max Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| SR5 / Limited | i-FORCE | RWD/4WD | 6,000 lbs. |
| TRD Off-Road | i-FORCE | 4WD | 6,000 lbs. |
| TRD Pro | i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid) | 4WD | TBD (Est. 6,500 lbs.) |
| Trailhunter | i-FORCE MAX (Hybrid) | 4WD | TBD (Est. 6,500 lbs.) |
The TRD Pro and Trailhunter trims deliver the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain consisting of an electric motor coupled to a turbo engine to provide improved trail and towing capabilities. Official towing ratings for hybrid versions of Toyota models remain unknown to the public although experts predict maximum capacity of 6,500 lbs according to MotorTrend. MotorTrend).
Towing Features in the 2025 4Runner
- Towing-friendly enhancements accompany the engine changes in the new 4Runner model although engine changes represent the primary focus.
- Some trims feature an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller as a standard equipment option.
- The system uses Tow-Haul Mode to optimize shift timing during towing situations.
- Stability through Trailer Sway Control provides additional control benefit.
- Heavy-duty cooling systems are standard equipment for TRD and Trailhunter trim packages.
- The vehicle comes with both a Class IV hitch receiver and wiring harness in its standard equipment.
- The 2025 model features suspension and chassis design improvements that deliver an enhanced towing experience above earlier model 4Runners (Edmunds). Edmunds).
Real-World Towing: What Can You Haul?
The 2025 4Runner model has a towing ability of up to 6,000 pounds.
- Medium-sized travel trailers
- Bass boats or small pontoons
- Utility trailers carrying ATVs together with dirt bikes can be hauled by the unit.
- Compact horse trailers
Upgrading to the hybrid i-FORCE MAX version will give you a towing capacity of 6,500 lbs. which allows you to pull larger campers together with enclosed trailers.
Is the 2025 4Runner Good for Towing?
Absolutely. The 2025 4Runner receives its redesigned powertrain which provides more torque strength together with enhanced load capacity and improved under-load driving stability compared to earlier models. The updated Toyota 4Runner now performs equally well as competitors including Ford Bronco and Jeep Grand Cherokee across off-road terrain and towing capabilities.
The integration of TRD and Trailhunter packages with this vehicle results in a capable off-road vehicle that can pull heavy trailers through rough terrain.
FAQs
Q1: What is the 2025 Toyota 4Runner has a maximum towing capacity?
A: You can pull trailers weighing up to 6,000 lbs with the standard i-FORCE turbo engine system that comes in the new 4Runner model.
Q2: Will the 2025 4Runner hybrid tow more?
A: The i-FORCE MAX hybrid system from Toyota might offer a potential towing capacity of 6,500 lbs according to early analysts.
Q3: What engine does the 2025 4Runner use?
A: The 2025 Toyota 4Runner utilizes a new generation 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers 278 hp with 317 lb-ft of torque.
Q4: Does the 2025 4Runner model now ship with a tow package standard?
A: A Class IV hitch accompanies the standard equipment, but additional premium trims provide trailer brake control and sway management features.
Q5: What advantages does the 2025 4Runner provide in comparison to its 2024 model when it comes to towing capability?
A: Yes. The new power and capacity system increases performance far past 5,000 lbs by reaching up to 6,000 lbs or more based on trim choices.
2025 4Runner Towing Capacity: What’s New in the Latest Model