Differences between 6th Gen 2025+ 4Runner TRD Pro vs. Trailhunter? Advantages / Purposes

[MudBug64]

Hi all,

After learning about the SDM (Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism), it put me between a TRD Pro or a Trailhunter. However, I am having trouble understanding really what makes them 'equals' in terms of value between their key features.

Putting the 'design features' aside (unique wheels, colors, and bumper colors), they are supposed to be equal in terms of what comes with them.

See photo attached. Do the unique things that the TRD Pro has, make it as equivalent to a Trailhunter? I think the scale tips more in favor of the Trailhunter, but I'd like to hear you guys' perspectives on it.

For example, since the TRD Pro does NOT have an ARB Roof Rack, are the FOX shocks much higher quality than the Old Man Emu's?

I know the TRD Pro has a moonroof and the Trailhunter doesn't to balance the scale, but we know a roof rack is more expensive than a moonroof.

The Trailhunter has the elevated air intake and air compressor, and the TRD Pro doesn't.

Basically, what is the TRD Pro bringing to the table to make it an equal to the Trailhunter?

Thanks!

 

[4running]

Basically, they're both highly capable off-road, but each trim excels over the other for more specialized purposes:

The TRD Pro is a desert runner built for high-speed off-road driving, vs. the Trailhunter which was designed for long-haul overland trips and crawling.

TRD Pro
Designed for high-speed desert driving:

• Suspension: Features Fox internal bypass 2.5-inch shocks with three manually adjustable settings
  
  
• Rear end: Has Fox internal Floating Piston bump stops to reduce impact harshness
  
  
• Skid plate: front skid plate and fuel tank skid plate; no transmission skid plate

Trailhunter
Designed for slower-speed off-roading, such as crawling over rocks / boulders and dealing with rocky or wooded terrain:

• Snorkel: Comes standard
  
  
• Suspension:: Features Old Man Emu shocks (the point of these shocks is not the wide-open desert-running ability of the TRD Pro; but more for overlanding. These shocks are made for technical rock crawling, simple washboard roads, and load carrying.
  
  
• Skid plate: rock sliders, front skid plate, fuel tank skid plate, transmission skid plate

 

[visually oriented]

If I was selecting between them it would come down to which features/style do I value or not, not which is the better value.

Me personally, I do like a sunroof. I don't want a roof rack. They increase noise and decrease fuel economy. The snorkel increases noise. Based on these factors I would pick the TRD Pro.

 

[Zaki]

If I was selecting between them it would come down to which features/style do I value or not, not which is the better value.

Me personally, I do like a sunroof. I don't want a roof rack. They increase noise and decrease fuel economy. The snorkel increases noise. Based on these factors I would pick the TRD Pro.

Exactly why I am leaning TRD Pro.
Also, I think I might find the Fox shocks of the Pro more useful as I do not intend serious rock crawling.

I find the A-pillar mounted air intake of the TH to be not visually appealing and it might contribute to increased sound in the cabin.

I find the hood of the Pro to be more handsome and imposing even though the intake is only a decoration and not functional.

I find the red fox shocks to be better looking in the wheel well.

I like the TRD PRO stamping on the tailgate.

I like the exclusive Mudbath color.

I like the glossy fender flares better as these look more dressy and will be easier to keep clean and if they get scratched, easier to buff out. I do not plan on serious rock crawling so scratches likely not a problem for me.

I like that I do not have to explain what trim I am driving. TRD Pro is self explanatory and the color is unique. Everest color is not exclusive.