The 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, launched in December 2024, is a rugged icon reborn with a 326 hp i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, Fox QS3 shocks, and a tech-loaded cabin that screams adventure. Priced at $67,000–$73,500 USD (~€62,310–€68,355 EUR, ~$90,000–$100,000 AUD), it’s a dream for off-road enthusiasts in Denver, Sydney, or Dubai, boasting a 10.1-inch ground clearance, 33-inch Toyo tires, and a sway bar disconnect to conquer the toughest trails. Its Mudbath paint and heritage “TOYOTA” grille turn heads, and Toyota’s legendary reliability makes it a safe bet for long-term ownership. But before you sign the dotted line for this Japanese tank, there are some serious red flags to consider. After diving into hands-on tests, web reviews, and X chatter, here are the top 5 reasons to avoid the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro—and why it might not be the ultimate off-roader for everyone.
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
1. Steep Price Tag Stings for the Value
The TRD Pro starts at $67,000 USD (~€62,310 EUR), with our test car hitting $73,500 USD (~€68,355 EUR) after $4,700 in accessories like an ARB roof rack and air compressor. In Australia, expect ~$90,000–$100,000 AUD, a hefty jump from the base 4Runner’s $40,770. While the i-Force Max hybrid (326 hp) and Fox shocks justify some of the cost, competitors like the Ford Bronco Wildtrak ($58,000–$75,000) or Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 ($49,090) offer comparable off-road capability for less. The TRD Pro comes fully loaded with no customization options, forcing buyers to pay for features they might not need, like the JBL sound system or 14-inch touchscreen.
Reddit users on r/4Runner argue the TRD Off-Road Premium ($56,420) delivers 80% of the Pro’s off-road prowess for $10,000 less, with hybrid or non-hybrid choices. MotorTrend notes the TRD Pro’s price aligns with high-end Broncos and Wranglers, but those offer removable roofs and doors for a more open-air vibe, which the 4Runner lacks.
Why It Hurts: Budget-conscious buyers in Canada or Australia might find the TRD Pro’s cost outweighs its exclusive perks, especially when cheaper alternatives perform nearly as well.
2. Compromised Cargo Space Due to Hybrid Battery
The i-Force Max hybrid boosts power but sacrifices utility. The 1.87-kWh NiMH battery raises the cargo floor by 6 inches, reducing space to 42.6 cu.ft. with seats up (82.6 cu.ft. folded) compared to 47.2 cu.ft. in non-hybrid 4Runners. The non-flat load floor, caused by the battery hump, is a pain for overlanders stacking gear or setting up a bed, unlike the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (72.4 cu.ft. folded) or Ford Bronco (83 cu.ft.). The 19-gallon fuel tank limits range to ~280–400 miles, shorter than the last-gen’s 23-gallon tank.
X posts highlight frustration with the raised floor, with one user calling it “a dealbreaker for camping.” While the roll-down rear window and 120V outlet add versatility, the lack of a third-row option (available on SR5/Limited trims) hurts family appeal.
Why It Hurts: Seattle or UAE adventurers needing max cargo for long trips will struggle with the TRD Pro’s cramped trunk.
3. Jittery On-Road Ride Feels Trucky
The TRD Pro’s Fox QS3 shocks and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires are tuned for high-speed desert runs and rocky trails, making it a beast off-road. But on pavement, the TNGA-F body-on-frame platform delivers a stiff, bouncy ride that feels more like a pickup than a refined SUV. Reviewers at The Drive note “noticeable shake” and “loose steering,” with the 5,500-lb weight amplifying the trucky feel on Toronto’s city streets or Sydney’s highways.
The ARB roof rack adds wind noise, further detracting from on-road comfort. Compared to the Ford Bronco, which balances off-road grit with a smoother pavement ride, the 4Runner feels less polished. Car and Driver praises its trail prowess but warns daily commuters may tire of the jittery dynamics.
Why It Hurts: Urban drivers or long-distance commuters in Canada will find the ride fatiguing compared to unibody SUVs like the Toyota Highlander.
4. Disappointing Real-World Fuel Economy
Despite an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined (23 city/24 highway), the TRD Pro’s real-world fuel economy disappoints, averaging 14–18 mpg in mixed driving per Edmunds and X user tests. The hybrid system adds ~700 lbs, negating efficiency gains, and the 19-gallon fuel tank limits range to ~280–400 miles, far from the theoretical 437 miles. Non-hybrid 4Runners hit 26 mpg highway, making them a better pick for gas-conscious buyers. The Ford Bronco (20 mpg city) and Jeep Wrangler (20 mpg combined) edge out the TRD Pro in real-world efficiency.
Reddit threads on r/4Runner complain about the hybrid’s “meh” fuel savings, with one user noting, “It’s barely better than the old V6.”
Why It Hurts: Buyers in high-fuel-cost regions like the UAE or Australia will feel the sting at the pump, especially with no significant hybrid efficiency boost.
5. Limited Customization Limits Appeal
The TRD Pro is a take-it-or-leave-it package, with no options to skip features like the JBL sound system or ARB air compressor ($1,500). Unlike the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler, which offer removable roofs, doors, and extensive aftermarket support, the TRD Pro’s fixed configuration feels restrictive. The TRD Off-Road Premium ($56,420) allows hybrid or non-hybrid choices and aftermarket mods like TRD Pro grilles, saving ~$10,000.
Reddit’s r/overlanding community prefers the Trailhunter trim ($68,395) for its cargo-friendly design and modular accessories. MotorTrend notes the Bronco’s configurability makes it a favorite for DIY enthusiasts. The TRD Pro’s Mudbath color and gloss black fender flares look slick but scratch easily, per X feedback, limiting durability for rugged use.
Why It Hurts: Denver or Sydney modders craving a unique build will find the TRD Pro’s lack of flexibility frustrating.
The Flip Side: Why It’s Still Tempting
Despite these drawbacks, the 4Runner TRD Pro shines with unmatched off-road capability, thanks to its sway bar disconnect, locking rear diff, and 10.1-inch ground clearance. The 326 hp hybrid outmuscles the Wrangler’s 285 hp, and Toyota’s bulletproof reliability beats both rivals, per Kelley Blue Book. The 14-inch touchscreen, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and roll-down rear window add modern flair for urban adventurers. If you’re a Toyota loyalist in Australia or a trail junkie in Colorado, the TRD Pro’s cult appeal and rugged charm might outweigh its flaws.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro | Ford Bronco (Wildtrak) | Jeep Wrangler (Rubicon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (USD/EUR) | $67,000–$73,500 / €62,310–€68,355 | $58,000–$75,000 / €53,940–€69,750 | $55,000–$75,000 / €51,150–€69,750 |
| Weight | ~5,500 lbs | ~4,800 lbs | ~4,600 lbs |
| Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 42.6 (82.6 folded) | 38.3 (83 folded) | 31.7 (72.4 folded) |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 23 combined (14–18 real-world) | 20 city | 20 combined |
| Customization | Limited | Extensive | Extensive |
The TRD Pro excels in reliability but lags in cargo, efficiency, and customization.
Buyer’s Guide: Who Should Pass?
- Budget Buyers: The TRD Off-Road ($50,640) or SR5 ($40,770) offer similar off-road ability for less.
- City Commuters: The Toyota Highlander or Kia Telluride provide smoother rides for urban use.
- Overlanders: The Trailhunter ($68,395) has better cargo setup for long trips.
- Mod Enthusiasts: Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler offer more personalization for DIYers. Check Toyota dealers, carsguide.com.au, or yallamotor.com for Q4 2025 availability.
About the Author
Redline Reviews Redline Reviews formally known as 2theRedline, produces detailed and honest videos on all things automotive with special attention placed toward actual in-market consumers looking to purchase their next new vehicle.
Sources
- YouTube: “The 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Is A Japanese Tank Built To Take On The Best Off-Road Trails” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6rQIbUn_XyY
- Car and Driver: https://www.caranddriver.com
- MotorTrend: https://www.motortrend.com
- CarsGuide: https://www.carsguide.com.au
- AutoBlog: https://www.autoblog.com
- The Drive: https://www.thedrive.com
- Edmunds: https://www.edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book: https://www.kbb.com
- Top Gear: https://www.topgear.com
- AutoExpress: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk
- CarExpert: https://www.carexpert.com.au
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org
