For me, the Toyota 4Runner is one of those rare SUVs that holds its character through decades. I’ve driven older and newer examples, and what keeps drawing me back is that blend of stubborn durability and practical utility.
The 2024–2025 Toyota 4Runner lineups expand the choices: trims for buyers who want pure trail capability, others who want family comfort, and a new Platinum for those who want near-luxury.
In this deep dive, I’ll walk you through every current configuration, explain what each trim is for, and trace the 4Runner’s development year by year so you know exactly what you’re buying.
- Toyota 4Runner Configurations With Chart – Complete Trim-Level Rundown
Toyota 4Runner Configurations – An Overview (2024–2025)
For 2024 and the newly revealed 2025 model refresh, Toyota maintains a wide spread of trims to suit many buyers.
From the practical SR5 to the trail-focused TRD Pro and the new, luxury-minded Platinum, the lineup now covers daily drivers, adventurers, and buyers who want premium features with Toyota reliability. Below is a current trims table with starting prices and headline features.
Current 4Runner Trims (2024–2025)
| Trim | Starting Price (USD) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| SR5 | $40,705 | Practical base trim, durable interior, available 4WD |
| TRD Sport | $43,565 | Street-focused, improved on-road handling, 20" wheels |
| SR5 Premium | $43,515 | SofTex seating, heated seats, upgraded infotainment |
| TRD Off-Road | $44,150 | Locking rear diff, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select |
| TRD Off-Road Premium | $46,665 | Off-road hardware plus comfort upgrades |
| Limited | $49,690 | Luxury-leaning trim, adaptive suspension, JBL |
| TRD Pro | $54,920 | FOX shocks, TRD skid plates, off-road ready |
| Platinum (2025) | ≈ $64,800 | Top-tier materials, heated 2nd row, Tow Tech |
Quick Comparison: 4Runner vs Highlander vs Sequoia
If you’re trying to decide between Toyota’s popular SUVs — the 4Runner, Highlander, and Sequoia — here’s a quick comparison chart outlining their engines, seating capacities, and towing potential for 2024 models.
| Model | Engine | Towing Capacity | Seating | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4Runner (2024) | 4.0L V6 (270 hp) | 5,000 lbs | 5–7 | $40,705 |
| Highlander (2024) | 2.4L Turbo I4 (265 hp) | 5,000 lbs | 7–8 | $39,270 |
| Sequoia (2024) | 3.4L i-FORCE MAX Hybrid V6 (437 hp) | 9,520 lbs | 7–8 | $61,275 |
2025 Toyota 4Runner Trim Levels Explained
1: SR5
The SR5 is the starting point but far from basic. It gives you the core 4Runner experience — a rugged body-on-frame platform, straightforward controls, and Toyota’s reputation for durability. Inside, materials are utilitarian yet tough; the SR5 comes with a practical infotainment setup and available 4WD. It’s ideal for buyers who want a dependable SUV they can use daily without flashy extras.
2: TRD Sport
The TRD Sport tunes the 4Runner toward on-road dynamics. With sport-oriented suspension calibration and 20-inch wheels, it handles highway miles with less wallow. The Sport trim keeps many of the 4Runner’s rugged bones but focuses on urban and suburban drivers who value sharper steering and a more composed road feel.
3: SR5 Premium
SR5 Premium builds on SR5 with creature comforts: SofTex upholstery, heated front seats, and an upgraded multimedia system. It’s the practical choice for families that want comfort without committing to the higher cost of Luxury trims.
4: TRD Off-Road
This is the classic 4Runner for trail lovers. The TRD Off-Road includes a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and tuned suspension for uneven terrain. It’s a confidence-inspiring package for moderate to aggressive off-road use.
5: TRD Off-Road Premium
Adds the Off-Road hardware with elevated comfort — SofTex seats, upgraded audio, and more convenience features. If you want daily usability and real trail capability without the Spartan feel, this trim is a solid compromise.
6: Limited
Limited takes the 4Runner’s ruggedness and dresses it up. Expect leather seating, dual-zone climate control, adaptive suspension on some models, and premium audio. It’s for buyers who want a refined cabin but don’t want to sacrifice the 4Runner’s go-anywhere nature.
7: TRD Pro
The TRD Pro is the flagship off-roader. It comes standard with FOX high-performance shocks, TRD-tuned front springs, a TRD roof rack, and unique styling. It’s built for high-speed desert running and technical rock crawling straight from the factory.
8: Platinum (2025)
New for 2025, Platinum elevates the 4Runner toward near-luxury. Standard heated second-row seats, Tow Tech (integrated trailer tools), upgraded leather, and unique exterior styling are the hallmarks. It’s Toyota’s attempt to offer a premium, family-friendly body-on-frame SUV.
Toyota 4Runner Models Year by Year (1984–2025)
1984–1989 (1st Generation)
The 4Runner started as a compact, removable-top SUV built on the Toyota pickup platform. Early models were simple, rugged, and aimed at buyers wanting a small truck-based SUV.
1990–1995 (2nd Generation)
This generation added a 4-door option and increasingly focused on family usability while retaining off-road chops. Controls became more convenient, and refinement improved.
1996–2002 (3rd Generation)
Toyota introduced a more modern design, improved suspension, and more creature comforts. It was during this era that the 4Runner started gaining broader mainstream appeal.
2003–2009 (4th Generation)
The 4th gen saw introduction of a V8 option in certain years (4.7L), more luxury features, and stronger towing capabilities. Reliability concerns surfaced in some early V8 models regarding rust and head-gasket issues; later years improved.
2010–2021 (5th Generation)
The long-running 5th generation refined the 4Runner’s off-road reputation, introducing TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and other special editions. Reliability and aftermarket support grew substantially during this run.
2022–2024 (Mid-cycle updates)
Toyota kept improving infotainment, safety tech, and small comfort upgrades. TRD Pro remained the halo off-road model while Limited and SR5 served daily-driving buyers.
2025 (New TNGA-F redesign)
A major update: the 2025 model moves to the TNGA-F platform, introduces new turbo and hybrid powertrain options, and adds the Platinum trim. This redesign modernizes structure, ride, and tech while keeping body-on-frame DNA.
Which Toyota 4Runner Trim Level Should You Go For?
Choosing the right 4Runner trim is about honest priorities. If you want the simplest, most budget-friendly durable SUV, go SR5. If you do mild trail runs but still commute, the TRD Off-Road or TRD Off-Road Premium gives you real capability without being a chore on paved roads.
For instance, the Limited leans into comfort, great for long road trips and family duties. TRD Pro is for those who chase real trails and value factory off-road gear.
If budget allows and you want a 4Runner that behaves like a near-luxury SUV while keeping towing and durability, the new Platinum is compelling. In short: match the trim to how you’ll spend most of your time behind the wheel, that’s the most practical choice.
Final Thoughts
So, now you know all about the various Toyota 4Runner configurations and trim levels. In short, the Toyota 4Runner remains a unique choice in a market chasing crossovers. Its breadth of configurations means there’s a 4Runner for almost every buyer, from weekend trail warriors to family-focused drivers who still want a tough vehicle. The 2025 changes modernize the lineup without losing the DNA that made the 4Runner an icon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different Toyota 4Runner models?
They include SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited, TRD Pro, and the new Platinum for 2025.
Is there a 4Runner year to avoid?
Some owners suggest caution around 2003–2005 V8 models due to rust and head-gasket issues; overall, 2010 onwards is a safe bet.
Which Toyota 4Runner is the top of the line?
For 2025, the Platinum is the top trim with the most luxury features; TRD Pro remains the top trail model.
Which is better, RAV4 or 4Runner?
RAV4 is more efficient and easier to park; 4Runner is superior for towing, durability and serious off-road use.
What is the #1 most reliable SUV?
Toyota’s 4Runner is consistently rated among the most reliable SUVs by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Which year is the 4Runner the most reliable?
Many enthusiasts point to models from 2013–2021 as particularly dependable with proper maintenance.
