I’m looking at getting a 2025 4Runner and need some advice on whether to go with the hybrid or the non-hybrid version. I’ve managed to bring the price down to $60.5k for the non-hybrid, and I’ve already driven the non-hybrid Tacoma, which felt pretty good and definitely has more power than the V6. Also, I managed to get an 80k miles or 6-year bumper-to-bumper warranty for the SUV. Am I making a mistake by picking the non-hybrid? I’m mostly focused on longevity and reliability, and I’m not keen on worrying about the battery.
Get rid of that paint protection stuff, it’s not worth it.
6 gallons of gas? That’s not even a full tank!
Aeron said:
6 gallons of gas? That’s not even a full tank!
I was like what?! 
Prices are crazy right now.
Bruh…$589 for cargo lights? For LEDs? You can get those on Amazon for $15.
Vey said:
Bruh…$589 for cargo lights? For LEDs? You can get those on Amazon for $15.
It’s crazy how Toyota is adding every little thing they can. Luckily, I got the price down to the base MSRP of $55-$56k and I’m just paying for taxes and title. Plus, I got a really good trade-in offer for my M2.
Vey said:
Bruh…$589 for cargo lights? For LEDs? You can get those on Amazon for $15.
I had the same reaction. $589 is insane for LEDs.
That’s the model I have, and the engine performs really well. It’s much better than my V6 2017 Tacoma. I’ve had it for a month now, and I’m loving it.
I’d go non-hybrid for the reasons you mentioned. Let us know how the test drive goes!
Keegan said:
I’d go non-hybrid for the reasons you mentioned. Let us know how the test drive goes!
I’ve already driven the non-hybrid and it felt great for what I need, but I’m still curious about the hybrid.
@Keir
Toyota’s been doing well with hybrids, especially with the Prius, so they’ve probably figured it out for the trucks too.
@Keir
I just test drove a TRD Sport gas, a Land Cruiser hybrid, and a TRD hybrid, and I liked the hybrid 4Runner the most. My current car feels underpowered, and I don’t want that in 13 years. I like the extra power from the hybrid. The cargo space is a bit less, but I see it more as a fun car rather than a family car.
I have the iForce Max (hybrid) and often the engine isn’t even running, whether I’m driving, parked, or coasting downhill… that definitely saves gas and reduces wear on the engine. I’d guess the hybrid could be more reliable in the long run.
@Payne
That’s a good point!
I’d expect the hybrid battery to cost around $4k to replace in 15 years. By then, battery costs may go down as more hybrids are on the road. Treat it like a timing belt. If you keep the vehicle long enough, you’ll probably be able to afford it without too much trouble.
@Payne
I think the battery might cost more than that. For example, the Camry hybrid battery swap costs around $7k.
Brett said:
@Payne
I think the battery might cost more than that. For example, the Camry hybrid battery swap costs around $7k.
You can actually change a Toyota hybrid battery yourself with regular tools. I watched someone replace a Prius battery, and it wasn’t too crazy—just a lot of bolts and trims to remove and put back.
@Payne
I saw a video of a Camry battery swap, and it looked like a huge job. They had to remove the entire back interior to get to the battery. Plus, getting a new battery and disposing of the old one is a hassle. These cars are meant to be used up around 100k miles.
@Brett
There are still plenty of Priuses on the road with over 250k miles and original batteries that are 20 years old.