The Toyota 4Runner is one of the oldest car designs still in production. The current 4Runner version reached dealerships in 2009 when Barack Obama was just taking office.

That has its advantages – Consumer Reports recently found it the most reliable car on the road. After all, Toyota has had a lot of time to iron out any problems.

The 4Runner appeals to off-roaders. Our expert test driver says, “Its performance ranges from acceptable to exceptional, depending on what’s under the wheels.”

It’s useful as a reliable midsize family SUV, but its body-on-frame design, available 4-wheel-drive, and long-proven platform mean it’s most at home on mud or sand.

The 4Runner’s age limits its appeal, particularly as other automakers introduce more rugged SUVs. Even the Hyundai Santa Fe now fancies itself an off-roader. Toyota may need to update its most rugged model to keep it in the running.

That update is on the way. Toyota used its Instagram page to tease what is likely a 2025 4Runner late last week. A teaser photo doesn’t show much beyond the lower end of the tailgate and the trailer hitch.

I expect it to share many parts with the recently released 2024 Tacoma, including an available hybrid drivetrain. I’m most curious, however, to see the price. Toyota re-introduced its other off-road SUV, the Land Cruiser, last year. In the process, they lowered that model’s price to 4Runner territory.

It might be too much to ask to hope for a 4Runner price cut. But, without one, Toyota risks cannibalizing some sales with two off-road SUVS similar in size and price.