In the offroader scene, few models are as exciting as the Ford Bronco. It was revived in 2020, the Bronco has been wooing rugged SUV enthusiasts with its top notch performance and forward thinking tech, but can it keep its crown this year? Today, we’re comparing the Toyota 4Runner vs Bronco, with rock crawling, performance, and affordability all factored into this head to head to find out which provides the best all around model in the 2025 year.
Key Takeaways
- The Bronco goes retro this year, bringing a new Free Wheeling trim that harks back to the days of old.
- The 4Runner is newly revised, getting a new platform this year as it looks to take top honors in the class.
- The Bronco starts at under $40k as of writing, making it a strong choice for buyers looking to save big this year.
Is Ford releasing a 2025 Bronco?
Yes! For 2025, the Bronco lineup gains a nostalgic touch with the addition of the retro-themed Free Wheeling trim. This new package uses the Big Bend as a base, and builds onto it with a vibrant, 70s inspired livery that pays homage to the Ford styling of old. What’s more? An option exists to further enhance the Free Wheeling edition by opting for the available Sasquatch package, which equips the SUV with high-clearance fender flares, a lifted suspension, rugged mud-terrain tires, and upgraded Bilstein shocks for improved off-road capability. These changes considered, the new Bronco starts at an asking price of under $40k as of writing, with the Stroppe Edition topping the charts at $77,530. The full list of available trims reads as:
- Base - $39,890
- Big Bend - $42,265
- Free Wheeling - $44,760
- (Recommended) Black Diamond - $46,760
- Outer Banks - $49,835
- Heritage Edition - $51,370
- Badlands - $51,990
- Stroppe Edition - $77,530
The Big Bend trim serves as a solid entry point in the Bronco lineup, but if you're looking for more value and off-road readiness, the mid-tier Black Diamond or Outer Banks trims are better equipped. The Black Diamond model, a four door priced under $50,000, includes useful features like Ford's G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) drive modes, 32-inch all-terrain tires, a powder-coated steel front bumper, extra underbody protection, and access to a wide range of factory upgrades. For 2025, Ford also introduces a new entry-level base model, while at the top of the range, the new Stroppe Edition Bronco arrives with a bold tri-color livery inspired by the iconic Stroppe Baja racers of the ’60s and ’70s.
Is the 2025 4Runner out yet?
Yes! The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is upgraded for 2025, and introduces a host of new features as it transitions to the TNGA-F global truck platform. Toyota’s priorities for this year’s model are enhanced capability and refinement. Now running on the same platform as the Tundra, Tacoma, and Sequoia, the 4Runner receives fresh exterior and interior styling updates and now offers two inline-four engine options, including a hybrid variant.
Off-road performance gets a boost with the available Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism. Also new is the expansion of the lineup to include new trims such as the TRD Sport Premium, Trailhunter, and Platinum trims. Inside, a large 14.0-inch touchscreen is newly available, while all models benefit from the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, now featuring Proactive Driving Assist. Notably, the V-6 engine and SR5 Premium trim have been discontinued.
Summary
When it comes to these two offroad titans, the 4Runner has an impressive suite of changes that turn it into a versatile powerhouse. That said, the Ford Bronco is best suited for tackling all of your offroad needs. The best off-road machine is even more fine-tuned to specific terrains. Pairing tried and tested Bilstein dampers with classic Ford Toughness, the Bronco is the best off-roader you can get in the class this year. Stop by Jarrett Scott Ford in Plant City to test drive the Bronco today.