The Toyota 4Runner enters a new era
After over a decade in production, the fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner finally bows out, with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner kicking off the sixth generation of the off-road SUV. The all-new model uses the Tacoma pickup’s platform, but it includes more modern amenities, as well as a rugged exterior style that helps it blend in with other off-road rivals. The truck-based SUV does more than just look the part. It comes with a list of standard and optional features designed for off-road prowess.
Kristen Brown
The Honda Pilot receives a handful of major changes to its range for the 2025 model year, just two years following the SUV’s redesign. First, the LX trim is no longer available, making the Sport model the new base Pilot. The new Black Edition trim takes the top spot at the opposite end of the range, complete with high-end features, like embossed leather front seats and standard all-wheel drive.
Exterior styling spotlight
The Toyota 4Runner makes its mark on the industry with a complete redesign that stays true to its rugged reputation. The sixth-generation model shares its platform with the Tacoma while retaining its squared-off styling and athletic stance. The power rear window makes its return on the list of standard equipment. The 4Runner rides on athletic 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels, depending on the model. All models include LED headlights and taillights, while TRD models get upgraded to a sport-tuned suspension, as well as other off-road features. Gas-only 4Runner models are priced from $41,270 – $55,900. Upper trims are limited to hybrid powertrains and start at $52,490.
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The Honda Pilot received a full redesign back in 2023 and carried over unchanged into 2024. For 2025, the SUV loses its base trim and gains a new range-topping model. Priced from $40,200 – $54,580, the Pilot rides on either 18- or 20-inch wheels, complemented by a blunt nose with a wide grille and standard roof rails. All but the base Sport model come with a power tailgate. Notably, the TrailSport trim boasts skid plates and a trailer hitch, among other off-road elements, that make it a great pick for hitting the trails and camping out.
Performance to tackle everyday terrain
Thanks to its redesign, the new Toyota 4Runner does away with the last generation’s outdated 4.0-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission. The 2025 model rolls out with a more impactful 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The updated powertrain produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, but drivers can opt for a full-time four-wheel drive system instead. The Toyota 4Runner earns 19 – 20 mpg in the city and 24 – 26 mpg on the highway. It’s also capable of towing up to 6,000 lbs. when properly equipped.
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No matter the model, the Honda Pilot comes stocked with a 3.5-liter V6 engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that pumps out 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard on most models, with the option to upgrade to AWD. The TrailSport model is the exception, with standard AWD. The 2025 Honda Pilot earns 19 mpg in the city with either drivetrain. On the highway, FWD models earn 27 mpg, while models equipped with AWD earn 25 mpg. The Trailsport earns one less mile per gallon in the city and two less on the highway compared to other trims equipped with AWD. As for towing capability, the Pilot tops out at 5,000 lbs.
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Interior design and features
Both the Toyota 4Runner and Honda Pilot put an emphasis on practicality when it comes to their interior designs. Both models seat up to five passengers in standard form and are available with a third row. Note, however, that the three-row 4Runner seats seven passengers, while the Pilot offers room for eight.
The 4Runner’s cabin shares some similarities with that of the Tacoma, with plenty of storage options throughout and a similar dashboard layout. At the base level, the 4Runner is a fairly standard SUV, with cloth seats and some leather trim. The updated model also comes with 12 cup holders. Stepping up to higher trim levels unlocks leather-trimmed, heated, and ventilated front seats, a leather-trimmed heated steering wheel, and SofTex upholstery. The 4Runner boasts up to 90.2 cu ft. of cargo space with the rear row stowed away. Available storage space falls to 84.4 cu ft. with the addition of the third row.
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The redesigned 4Runner comes equipped with a plethora of tech compared to the previous model, with a standard eight-inch infotainment display and a seven-inch gauge cluster. Drivers do have the option of upgrading to a 14-inch display and a 12.3-inch gauge cluster, though. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard across the board, while an eight-speaker audio system with a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system is available as an upgrade. A wireless smartphone charging pad is optional, too.
The Honda Pilot, while comparably equipped to the 4Runner, boasts a handful of notable amenities, like a dual-level cargo floor and tri-zone automatic climate control. The Japanese SUV boasts 10 cup holders when equipped with two rows, and gains four more cup holders with the addition of a third row. A leather-wrapped steering wheel comes standard across the range, along with heated front seats. Note that second-row captain’s chairs are standard on the TrailSport model. Folding down the rear seats results in 87 cu ft. of cargo space.
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In terms of tech, the Pilot is reasonably equipped, with a nine-inch touchscreen display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on all but the base model. All models come equipped with a seven-inch driver information display, but top-spec models get a 10.2-inch gauge cluster instead. A seven-speaker audio system comes standard, but higher trims get a Bose 12-speaker setup.
Final thoughts
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The 2025 Toyota 4Runner certainly makes a splash, with updated styling, a fresh interior, and a sporty new powertrain, all while retaining its rugged demeanor. The Honda Pilot, which was redesigned just a few years ago, boasts plenty of interior space, as well as seating for up to eight passengers. All 4Runner models are capable of heading off-road, with some more capable than others, while the Pilot TrailSport is the only model in the range dedicated to tackling trails. Both SUVs come similarly equipped and priced, so make sure to get behind the wheel of each model before you make your final decision!