Now that the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is out, I’ve been reading up on its off-road features. Toyota is really pushing the Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism and the CRAWL Control function. It sounds like they’ve really packed this SUV with some solid features, but I’m curious if it’s worth the wait after 15 years. What do you guys think about the new features? Also, is the Trailhunter trim really necessary or are the other trims like SR5 and TRD Pro good enough?
I think the 2025 4Runner looks amazing for off-roading. That Stabilizer Bar Disconnect is going to be great for rock crawling, giving you more suspension articulation when you need it. I do wonder if it’s going to make a big difference compared to older models though.
@Macon
Yeah, the Stabilizer Bar feature sounds great on paper, but I want to see it in action before I get too excited. It’s hard to say if it’s going to be a game-changer or just a gimmick.
Moe said:
@Macon
Yeah, the Stabilizer Bar feature sounds great on paper, but I want to see it in action before I get too excited. It’s hard to say if it’s going to be a game-changer or just a gimmick.
Exactly. I think it’ll really help with preventing damage to the wheel wells during rough trails, but I agree, it’s all about how it works in the real world.
@Macon
Definitely. Toyota also included the Multi-Terrain Monitor system, which should help with spotting hazards. Could be handy when you’re crawling over some tricky terrain.
Anyone else think the CRAWL Control feature is going to be a game-changer? It’s like cruise control for rock crawling, so you just focus on steering and the system handles the speed. That sounds perfect for off-road trips where you’re dealing with obstacles.
@Amari
Yeah, CRAWL Control seems like a big plus. It’ll definitely save some effort when you’re on rocky terrain. No more worrying about keeping a steady pace, just point the 4Runner in the right direction.
@Corey
Exactly, plus it’ll reduce the chances of burning out the brakes, especially if you’re also using the Downhill Assist Control for steep descents. I think the 4Runner really shines with these new features.
@Corey
Good point. The Downhill Assist Control sounds like a smart addition, especially for steep hills. I’m wondering how it’ll hold up compared to similar systems in other off-road SUVs.
I’m pretty excited about the Trailhunter trim. It’s got the ARB Old Man Emu shocks and 33-inch tires with an extra lift. Plus, that high-mount air intake is going to help a lot with keeping the engine cool on those long dirt trails. Seems like it’s built for serious off-roaders.
@Aeron
The Trailhunter sounds overkill unless you’re doing hardcore stuff. For most trails, I feel like the TRD Pro or even the SR5 could get the job done just fine. The Trailhunter is cool, but do we really need all those extras?
@Flowky
Fair point. The ARB shocks are great for handling really rough terrain, but if you’re sticking to basic trails, the other trims will probably be enough. It just depends on how much off-roading you plan on doing.
@Aeron
Yeah, it really comes down to what kind of terrain you’re hitting. For me, the SR5 with the 4WD system and Multi-Terrain Select is probably enough. I just don’t see myself needing those extra inches of lift from the Trailhunter.
@Aeron
Same here. The Multi-Terrain Select is a great feature that should cover most types of terrain anyway, whether it’s mud, dirt, or sand.
Don’t forget about the approach and departure angles. A 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angle are really solid for tough terrain. That should help keep the bodywork safe when you’re crawling over rocks or other obstacles.
@Thanos
True, those angles are great. The part-time and full-time 4WD systems with the locking rear differential are also a big win for off-roaders. I’m thinking the TRD Pro with these features should be perfect for what I need.
@Monty
Yeah, the TRD Pro has everything you need unless you’re going all out. The locking rear diff alone makes a big difference in getting through tricky spots.
Thanos said:
@Monty
Yeah, the TRD Pro has everything you need unless you’re going all out. The locking rear diff alone makes a big difference in getting through tricky spots.
Exactly. I don’t think I’ll ever need the extras from the Trailhunter, but the TRD Pro’s got all the essentials for serious off-roading.
Has anyone mentioned the extra convenience features on the Trailhunter trim? The ARB roof rack, the 2400W inverter, and those pre-wired auxiliary switches are nice touches if you’re going on longer off-road trips. I don’t know if I’d use them, but they’re cool to have.
@Kelley
Yeah, I saw that too. I don’t know how often I’d use the roof rack or inverter, but having those options for charging accessories while camping or off-roading could be really handy.