If the 4Runner nameplate was a person, it’d be the friend who always shows up when you need them most — reliable, comfortable and unflappable. Add the “Hybrid” designation, the Trailhunter’s off-road focus, and Toyota’s thoughtful refinements for 2025, and what we drove wasn’t just an SUV with heritage … it was a modern-day utility player capable of tackling both the daily grind and weekend adventure without breaking a sweat.

Our week with this 4Runner came during the busy holiday rush — commuting to and from work, schlepping packages, handling grandkids, navigating holiday traffic and even escaping for a spontaneous day hike up one of Utah’s scenic mountain trails while the weather cooperated. Here’s how it went.

First impressions — The Everest Trailhunter stance

The 2025 4Runner Hybrid with Trailhunter trim wore an imposing but purposeful design. The Everest color, a mix of neutral tone with a hint of outdoor grit, set the tone for how this truck-based SUV approached its day: ready, capable and somehow still refined.

Photo supplied, Toyota

From the bold front grille and distinctive Trailhunter badging to the muscular wheel arches and rugged all-terrain tires, there was a clear visual message — this was a 4Runner that wanted to roam where paved roads ended. But even before the engine fired, it was obvious this was not a purely retro tribute; the stance and detailing suggested that modernity lurked beneath the classic silhouette.

Hybrid power — Everyday efficiency meets off-road muscle

Under the hood, the 4Runner Hybrid’s powertrain mated a gas engine with Toyota’s proven hybrid system. Mileage expectations in previous nonhybrid 4Runners were always serviceable, but during a week full of stop-and-go errands, highway stretches to Salt Lake City, and a chilly mountain trailhead hike, the hybrid system proved a game changer. Daily commuting felt smoother and noticeably more efficient than any previous 4Runner we have spent quality time with.

Around town, the hybrid system’s seamless assistance meant that quick pickups from stoplights and merges onto I-15 felt eager without guzzling fuel. What’s more, we consistently saw better than anticipated numbers on real-world trips — a quiet victory this time of year when everyone seems to be driving more than usual.

Even in Trailhunter’s more aggressive off-road gearing, the hybrid’s torque curve was forgiving and confidence-inspiring. Where nonhybrid 4Runners occasionally felt like they were working hard, this 2025 felt like it was thoughtfully applying power where needed, smoothing over both commute and trail.

Photo supplied, Toyota

Interior comfort — Functional, thoughtful, and holiday ready

Getting inside and the Trailhunter did not disappoint. Toyota’s interior designers had clearly balanced rugged utility with the kind of comfort that made a week of driving enjoyable.

Seating proved to be supportive with enough cushion for long drives, and the materials struck a pleasant balance of durability and refinement. The dashboard layout kept everything intuitive — this was essential during a week where half our brains were on our route and the other half was on figuring out how to wrap gifts and get everything ready for the holiday while driving home.

The infotainment system was modern and responsive, with navigation that reliably found alternate routes when Christmas traffic had other ideas. Integration with smartphones was straightforward, and the sound system kept spirits bright,

Storage throughout the cabin was intelligently placed. Small items, a pair of gloves, receipts from holiday shopping — nothing felt like it needed its own cargo box. And speaking of cargo, the rear space behind the second row swallowed more than its fair share of groceries, gear and a couple of awkwardly shaped packages without complaint.

Photo supplied, Toyota

Daily driving — Smooth commuting through holiday chaos

For most of the week, the 4Runner handled typical Utah County traffic and errands with ease. Morning commutes to work felt relaxed behind the wheel, the steering providing the perfect amount of feedback. The suspension soaked up potholes and uneven surfaces on local roads, an attribute we appreciated far more than expected given all the holiday distraction.

City driving at night — with lights, crowds and a need to be ultra-alert — felt secure thanks to a suite of standard safety systems that quietly helped us stay centered in the lane and brake when necessary. It’s the kind of tech that doesn’t call attention to itself unless you need it. Nicely done, Toyota!

Off the pavement — A spontaneous mountain hike

When the forecast continued to call for warmer weather, a pre-Christmas mild and inviting day, we took advantage. With gear packed in the generous cargo bay and the Trailhunter’s front and rear locking differentials engaged, we headed up toward one of our favorite trailheads nestled in the Wasatch mountains.

Photo supplied, Toyota

Although not an extreme route, the unpaved access roads offered enough challenge to show off the 4Runner’s capabilities. The hybrid torque delivery was smooth and encouraging, delivering power where it was needed without hesitation.

Once parked, the hike itself was refreshing — a perfect winter day that felt more springlike than winter. Returning to the 4Runner, the cabin temperature quickly warmed thanks to a responsive climate system that chased off the chilly mountain air. It felt like a well-earned reward after a brisk hike and a peaceful break from holiday hustle.

At the end of the week

At its core, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid 4WD Trailhunter is still the 4Runner we’ve known and enjoyed for decades — dependable, rugged and ready for adventure. But it’s also evolved in ways that make it genuinely more capable for everyday life. The hybrid powertrain delivers welcome efficiency without dulling the personality that long attracted buyers to this SUV. The Trailhunter trim brings serious off-road chops without sacrificing on-road comfort.

In a season that’s all about making memories and navigating life’s many lists, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Trailhunter proved it’s more than just a vehicle. It’s a holiday helper, a weekend warrior and a daily driver — all rolled into one capable and confident SUV.

Photo supplied, Toyota

Base price: $66,900

Destination charge: $1,450

Price as driven: $69,598