2025 4Runner Towing Test (on IKE Gauntlet) -- Outperforms Land Cruiser

[MG-OR]

TFL's 2025 4Runner TRD Off-Road 6th gen towing test vs. Land Cruiser. Tow Haul Mode was used and the 4Runner towed better than the LC!




TLDW text summary:

Summary

• Introduction of the All-New 2025 Toyota 4Runner
  The video showcases the improved towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs, tested on the challenging Ike Gauntlet towing route.
• 🛻 Initial Setup and Towing Conditions
  The towing test involves a 5,500 lb trailer, featuring a Honda Acti K truck, with a Big Tex steel car hauler. The team compares the 4Runner’s performance with the new Toyota Land Cruiser.
• Brake Application Analysis
  The team observes eight official brake applications, significantly fewer than the Land Cruiser's 12. Fewer applications indicate better control and reduced brake overheating.
• Performance Stability on Steep Grades
  Despite the shorter wheelbase, the 4Runner maintains impressive stability with minimal trailer sway, thanks to its full-time 4WD.
• Engine and Transmission Overview
  Equipped with a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 278 HP and 317 lb-ft torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the 4Runner proves reliable for steep hill climbs.
• Efficient Uphill Performance
  Accelerates smoothly with minimal strain while towing the maximum weight. The climb to 11,158 ft was completed in 7:53 minutes—better than the Land Cruiser.
• Vehicle Adjustments for Towing
  The team highlights Toyota’s recommendation for using a weight-distribution hitch for enhanced stability, though they tested without one to gauge performance.
• Comparative Insights on Pricing and Features
  The 4Runner’s model is priced around $58,000, comparable to the Land Cruiser. However, differences in features, such as trailer brake controllers, affect practicality.
• Driver Feedback and Interior Features
  Mirrors and instrument layouts are sufficient for this towing test but lack detailed numerical readouts. The cabin remained quiet at around 60 dB.
• Surprising Overall Results
  The 2025 4Runner surpassed the Land Cruiser in brake performance and achieved similar uphill efficiency, proving that it can effectively tow heavy loads when needed.

Insights Based on Numbers

• 8 Brake Applications vs. 12: The 4Runner required 8 brake applications compared to the Land Cruiser’s 12 during the downhill test, highlighting its improved braking efficiency and control.
• 7:53 vs. 8:13 Uphill Timing: The 4Runner’s 7-minute 53-second uphill climb outperformed the Land Cruiser's 8:13, demonstrating its efficient power and torque balance despite lower output.

 

[KTRAN]

So the 2025 4Runner has now bested the Land Cruiser off-roading at Moab and now on the IKE towing test, that's damn impressive. Definitely makes the LC a harder buy now, unless you prefer its styling.

 

[mars001]

What's the payload of the LC? The 4Runner's 895 lbs payload - 500 lbs tongue weight = 395 lbs left over. If carrying some camping gears, there is room for 1 lone driver

 

[ncrunner]

What's the payload of the LC? The 4Runner's 895 lbs payload - 500 lbs tongue weight = 395 lbs left over. If carrying some camping gears, there is room for 1 lone driver

Clearly you need a heavier duty vehicle then. A lot of people don't need to tow a trailer and load a thousand pounds of passengers and cargo.

 

[qtb007]

Eh, Ike’s gauntlet is an edge case. I expect on day to day towing, the LC / 4R hybrid is more pleasant because it won’t be carrying around effectively 450lbs of dead weight (due to the dead battery) like it is on an extended climb.

 

[Fhb]

i think theres a couple errors in the summary. They say they are in a TRD OR model therefore no full time 4wd. Also the wheelbase of 4R is identical to the Land Cruiser . Not a big deal though as the video shows good towing capability