The highly awaited 2025 Toyota 4Runner has finally arrived and is already generating plenty of buzz among off-road enthusiasts. This all-new sixth-generation model uses a Tacoma truck platform, which enhances its off-road performance and towing rating. While it has maintained its fifth-gen predecessor’s rugged aesthetics and adventurous spirit, its interior has been massively upgraded for an improved in-cabin experience.
But how well does this off-roading icon hold up against fellow top dogs in the segment? Join our team at Longo Toyota of Prosper in this ultimate showdown as we stack the new 4Runner against the 2025 Ford Bronco to determine which is the better adventure SUV.
Engine Specifications and Powertrain Comparison
Let’s start by checking out the Toyota 4Runner vs. Ford Bronco specs. For the 2025 model year, Toyota offers the 4Runner in two potent engine choices. The base powerplant, standard on all gas models, is an i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive. Toyota also offers an electrified version of this powerplant, dubbed i-FORCE MAX, on higher models. This more powerful hybrid engine churns out a maximum of 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
The 2025 Bronco’s base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four, which Ford pairs with a seven- or 10-speed transmission. This powerplant delivers an impressive 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. While the Bronco doesn’t offer hybrid capabilities like the new Toyota 4Runner, two V-6 engines are available for those seeking additional power. The optional 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 cranks out a maximum of 330 horsepower, while the more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbo makes an astonishing 418 horsepower.
Performance and Handling
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner’s robust engines offer plenty of power to conquer the great outdoors. The Trailhunter model, which comes equipped with the i-FORCE MAX engine, has an impressive 0-to-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds. Handling has also significantly improved since the last model year, and the gear shifts are smoother than ever.
In addition to its formidable powertrain, the new 4Runner offers plenty of off-road-ready equipment to enhance performance and drive quality on rugged terrain, including a locking rear differential and disconnecting stabilizer bars. Higher models feature even more off-roading features, including a sport-tuned suspension and Bilstein monotube shocks.
The new Ford Bronco is as capable as ever, thanks to its high-output engine lineup. Models equipped with the V-6 engine record impressive acceleration, making the 0-to-60 mph dash in 7.3 seconds. Steering is also stable and responsive, courtesy of an independent front suspension.
Like the 2025 4Runner, the Bronco offers an array of standard and optional off-roading gear, making it easy to take on any terrain. Notable features and equipment include 17-inch beadlock capable wheels, 35-inch rugged terrain tires, electronic-locking front and rear axles, and high clearance fender flares.
Towing Capacity and Utility
Both the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the 2025 Ford Bronco use pickup truck platforms, which has massive benefits for their towing capabilities. Even so, the 4Runner is the superior hauler of the two, boasting a maximum towing rating of 6,000 pounds when equipped with the i-FORCE engine. In comparison, the most formidable hauler in the 2025 Bronco line, the Raptor, with a standard 3.0-liter V-6 engine, can tow loads of up to 4,500 pounds.
Nevertheless, both SUVs offer numerous standard and optional towing equipment to facilitate safer and easier hauling. All 2025 4Runner models come with an integrated towing receiver hitch, while an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller system and a Trailer Backup Guide system are standard on higher models and optional on the base models.
Meanwhile, all Bronco models feature Trailer Sway Control and front tow hooks. The more towing-oriented Raptor model comes with additional standard features, including a Trailer Module and a hitch receiver.
Design, Features, and Comfort
Inside the new Toyota 4Runner you’ll find a swanky cabin with premium features everywhere you turn. The base SR5 trim offers fabric-trimmed cloth seats with six-way manually adjustable driver and front passenger seats. SofTex- and leather-trimmed seats are available on higher trims. Other noteworthy available comfort amenities include heated and ventilated front seats, a leather tilt/telescopic steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner also comes with an upgraded and user-friendly infotainment system for a more connected driving experience. An 8.0-inch Toyota Multimedia display is the standard infotainment touch screen on the model. However, there’s an optional 14.0-inch touch screen for those who prefer a larger display. Both screens offer wireless smartphone integration, allowing access and control of communication, entertainment, and navigation apps from the infotainment system. Additional standard and optional features include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, head-up display, Sirius XM, and a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system.
The new Ford Bronco offers an equally compelling cabin with a driver-centered layout and plenty of amazing comfort and tech features. Its easy-to-remove frameless doors and hard top allow for an open-air driving experience. Meanwhile, cloth-trimmed seats provide excellent support and plenty of adjustments to keep fatigue at bay during long drives. Models higher in the lineup offer leather upholstery and additional comfort features such as heated front seats with ventilation and a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Inside, the Bronco also comes with a 12.0-inch infotainment display with the latest SYNC 4 infotainment software. Standard features integrated into this sophisticated infotainment system include voice recognition, real-time traffic updates, and wireless smartphone connectivity.
Test-Drive the 2025 Toyota 4Runner at Longo Toyota of Prosper
Still undecided about whether you should consider the Bronco or 4Runner for your next SUV purchase? Come and see the 2025 Toyota 4Runner firsthand at our dealership in Prosper, Texas.
At Longo Toyota of Prosper, we offer a wide range of new Toyota models including sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. Browse our inventory to see the 2025 4Runner models we currently have in stock and schedule a test-drive to experience its unmatched off-roading capabilities.
Connect with us
