I picked up my 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport this October, finished in Underground. I’m coming from a 2019 Tacoma, and the jump to the new 4Runner feels like a major upgrade. From the power delivery to the way the new body lines catch the light.
There’s a Toyota dealership near me, and I drive past the lot a few times a week. The new 2025 4Runner TRD Sport kept catching my eye until I finally pulled in. Seeing it up close sealed the deal. The stance, the interior, the color. One test drive and that was it for me.
What I Bought (Stock TRD SPORT)
Powertrain: i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 — 278 hp @ 6,000 rpm / 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) with Automatic Limited-Slip Differential (Auto LSD)
Induction & Cooling: Twin-scroll turbocharger with wastegate valve control and air-cooled intercooler
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Drive Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport (Drive Mode Select)
Wheels & Tires: 20-in. dark-gray painted & machine-finished alloy wheels with TRD center caps, 265/55R20all-season tires
Color: Underground (deep, stealthy gray that makes the body lines pop at golden hour)
First Impressions (Why It Already Feels Right)
The new 4Runner’s proportions and surfacing are a big step forward. In person, the character lines along the fenders and doors read clean and athletic. The i-FORCE turbo brings torque in early, making street driving relaxed but responsive. With Auto LSD on this RWD setup, it’s confident in bad weather while staying efficient and simple.
My Build Aesthetic
I’m going aggressive but sleek with a clean blackout aesthetic that lets the factory design do most of the heavy lifting. Subtle, OEM+ touches that enhance the stance and silhouette without fighting the bodywork.
Living With It vs. My 2019 Tacoma
The Tacoma was a workhorse and a huge part of my brand—but the ’25 4Runner blends capability with a more refined ride and a design that photographs beautifully. From daily errands to weekend shoots, it’s checking the boxes. I’m excited to see where this build goes and plan to own it for years.
Quick Answers for Buyers
What engine is in the 2025 4Runner TRD Sport? i-FORCE 2.4L turbo I-4 (278 hp / 317 lb-ft).
Does the TRD Sport have drive modes? Yes—Eco, Normal, Sport via Drive Mode Select.
Wheel and tire size on TRD Sport? 20-in. alloys with 265/55R20 all-season tires.
RWD or 4WD? Mine is RWD with Auto LSD (some buyers will opt for 4WD).
Why pick TRD Sport? Sporty, clean look with great daily drivability and a solid foundation for an OEM+ build.
I’ll keep adding photo dumps here as the build evolves. You can also follow the build and progress on TikTok here. All of the images you see in this blog were taken with the Sony a1 paired with the Tamron 16-30 lens. You can learn more about the Tamron 16-30 lens here.
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Based in Pittsburgh and need product, food, or brand photography? I’m Ian Jones, a commercial photographer serving Pittsburgh and Western PA. Come check out my work! or follow me on Instagram