Review: 2025 4Runner Trailhunter vs. Tacoma Trailhunter - POV Off Road Driving Impressions

[Trailhunter4R]

TLDW version (via AI summary)

Platform & Shared DNA

• Both the 4Runner and Tacoma Trailhunters share a core platform and off-road DNA—especially in their use of the i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain (323 hp, 465 lb-ft of torque) and extensive off-road tech like:
  • Crawl Control
  • Locking rear differential
  • Multi-Terrain Select
  • Disconnectable front sway bar
• They also both use Old Man Emu (OME) dampers, which prioritize low-speed control and comfort for rock crawling and trail driving.

Design & Function Differences
4Runner Trailhunter:

• Feels tighter and more composed off-road, thanks to a shorter wheelbase—leading to better maneuverability.
• Offers better rear seat space, making it more family-friendly.
• Includes more interior comfort features and has a slightly more premium feel inside.
• More refined on-road, with lighter steering at low speeds and a smoother overall ride.
• Has a higher cargo floor due to the hybrid battery, which could be a minor limitation when overlanding.

Tacoma Trailhunter:

• Longer wheelbase gives it slightly more stability on flat, high-speed off-road surfaces.
• Offers 5ft and 6ft bed configurations, which increase its appeal for overlanding setups (e.g., rooftop tents).
• Less rear seat legroom, making it feel more cramped, especially for taller passengers.
• Comes with ARB recovery gear, a steel rear bumper, and optional ARB bed accessories, adding serious trail readiness.
• Better suited for those needing payload versatility and cargo-carrying capability.

Trail Feel and Use Cases

• The 4Runner is positioned as the more agile and versatile of the two, particularly for tight trails, family trips, and mixed-use driving.
• The Tacoma Trailhunter, on the other hand, edges out in overlanding utility and rugged use cases due to its larger bed and higher payload.

Bottom Line from the Video

• The reviewer sees the 4Runner Trailhunter as better for those who want a more comfortable, composed ride with family practicality.
• The Tacoma Trailhunter is viewed as the choice for hardcore off-roaders and overlanders who value gear-carrying capacity and trail durability.

 

[run4eb]

TLDW version (via AI summary)

Platform & Shared DNA

• Both the 4Runner and Tacoma Trailhunters share a core platform and off-road DNA—especially in their use of the i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain (323 hp, 465 lb-ft of torque) and extensive off-road techlike:
  • Crawl Control
  • Locking rear differential
  • Multi-Terrain Select
  • Disconnectable front sway bar
• They also both use Old Man Emu (OME) dampers, which prioritize low-speed control and comfort for rock crawling and trail driving.

Design & Function Differences
4Runner Trailhunter:

• Feels tighter and more composed off-road, thanks to a shorter wheelbase—leading to better maneuverability.
• Offers better rear seat space, making it more family-friendly.
• Includes more interior comfort features and has a slightly more premium feel inside.
• More refined on-road, with lighter steering at low speeds and a smoother overall ride.
• Has a higher cargo floor due to the hybrid battery, which could be a minor limitation when overlanding.

Tacoma Trailhunter:

• Longer wheelbase gives it slightly more stability on flat, high-speed off-road surfaces.
• Offers 5ft and 6ft bed configurations, which increase its appeal for overlanding setups (e.g., rooftop tents).
• Less rear seat legroom, making it feel more cramped, especially for taller passengers.
• Comes with ARB recovery gear, a steel rear bumper, and optional ARB bed accessories, adding serious trail readiness.
• Better suited for those needing payload versatility and cargo-carrying capability.

Trail Feel and Use Cases

• The 4Runner is positioned as the more agile and versatile of the two, particularly for tight trails, family trips, and mixed-use driving.
• The Tacoma Trailhunter, on the other hand, edges out in overlanding utility and rugged use cases due to its larger bed and higher payload.

Bottom Line from the Video

• The reviewer sees the 4Runner Trailhunter as better for those who want a more comfortable, composed ride with family practicality.
• The Tacoma Trailhunter is viewed as the choice for hardcore off-roaders and overlanders who value gear-carrying capacity and trail durability.

Awesome, looking forward to watching!