2025 4Runner TRD Sport

I have had more Toyota vehicles than I can list. All six of my children, my niece, an uncle and my mother are all converts to Toyota- from Corolla to Tundra.
But I do NOT recommend purchasing a sixth generation without serious and in-depth research. I purchased mine less than three weeks ago and although it is esthetically pleasing, the 2.4 l, 4 cylinder, turbo engine is extremely disappointing!
From a burning smell from the engine, to improperly set door gaskets, to horrible gas mileage even on the eco setting…
The engine sounds very much like a 4 cylinder Corolla and doesn’t drive much differently as one. I had a 2014 4Runner, but when my granddaughter was born, I gave it to her parents knowing they needed safe and reliable transportation for her. I don’t regret it, although I miss it. I bought a 2021 Tundra and LOVED IT! But when my husband passed away, I gave it to our son because he drove it more than I did. I had a 2021 Supra and loved it.
I am currently in the process of either forcing my local dealership to do more than fix whatever issues it’s having or trading it in (on their dime) because I feel as if Toyota Tahara has more than dropped the ball on this model.
And what’s most upsetting is this purchase may be the end of my support for Toyota vehicles.
Fingers crossed that something changes besides the environmental settings- eco, normal, sport- and Toyota brings back the genuine strength of its former fossil fuel models.
I can live without the whirl of a tiny turbo.

 

Welcome

 

It’s interesting to hear a review from someone that’s owned previous 4Runners and Toyotas. Many 6th gen owners seemed to be first timers.

 

Welcome

 

Would be interesting to hear the differences between the Tundra and the 6th Gen. Obviously barring the glaring differences of low end torque, mpgs, etc.

@septembersway , Was the burning smell just the new engine burning off the anti corrosives they put on new engines? Or the turbo oil burning from running it hot then shutting it off?
What is more concerning to me is the door gaskets, you were already getting leaks into the vehicle through the door?

 

As a first time 4runner and 4 cylinder owner i am impressed with mine. Those smells go away fast and are common with any new engine. I can't hear the turbo. So far overall quality seems legit. I can't speak to mileage as I have not monitored that yet. I'm getting used to the 4 banger sound but acceleration is absolutely better than the previous gen v6 I tested. It's my wife's vehicle and she thinks it drives nice and tight. We both can't get enough of it. After 3 weeks I'm still making excuses to drive it.

 

Engine refinement and initial quality were Gen5 strengths, so I’m not at all surprised when a prior owner pops off at the new one. And who can blame them at these prices.

That said, I personally like Gen6 when considering all of its merits. But, it’s also clear that throwing a cap on what is actually a really good Tacoma doesn’t necessarily make a great 4Runner.

 

I purchased a 6th gen after a lot of research. I was very leery about the change to a turbo-charged 4 cylinder drivetrain. So far, I have to say I’m very pleased and pleasantly surprised how nice it drives. Having owned 4th and 5th gen 4Runners, I’ve always had a great opinion of them. I’m hoping this new one continues to impress me going forward. Best of luck to you and I hope you work things out to your advantage.