22 MPG combined might sound modest on paper, but for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner 2WD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine, it marks a significant change. This isn’t the thirsty, naturally aspirated V6 4Runner of old. This new model offers practical and genuinely efficient operation for a truck-based SUV built to handle more than just the daily commute. It appeals to buyers who value Toyota’s legendary durability and capability but acknowledge the rising cost of fuel. The 4Runner has always been about adventure and longevity, and this powertrain ensures those adventures are a bit more wallet-friendly without changing the vehicle’s core identity. It acknowledges that even the most avid explorer appreciates fewer stops at the gas station.

City and highway performance

Looking closer at the EPA figures, the 2025 4Runner 2WD 2.4L 4-cylinder gets 20 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. That 20 MPG in the city shows what the modern 2.4L engine and its 8-speed automatic transmission can do, as they work to keep revs low and get maximum efficiency from every drop of fuel. Stop-and-go traffic, a notoriously draining scenario for larger vehicles, is handled with surprising skill. For a body-on-frame SUV that still offers substantial ground clearance and a strong chassis, hitting 20 MPG in urban environments is hardly an embarrassment; it’s a measured improvement over its predecessor. On the highway, the 26 MPG figure is where this new powertrain truly shines. That eight-speed automatic allows for low cruising RPMs, significantly reducing fuel consumption on longer trips. This is critical for the 4Runner’s target audience: people who frequently embark on road trips to trailheads, national parks, or simply cross-state journeys, often with gear in tow. The lower highway consumption means extended range and reduced travel costs, making those long drives less of a chore and more of an anticipation of the destination.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner 2WD 2.4L 4-cyl. This figure is calculated based on an assumed 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for buyers budgeting for ownership. That $2,000 annual outlay shows that while the 4Runner isn’t a Prius, it’s far from a fuel-guzzling behemoth. For a vehicle with its off-road pedigree, passenger capacity, and cargo versatility, this annual fuel expenditure is quite reasonable. It allows prospective owners to understand that their investment in capability won’t break the bank with every fill-up. This annual cost reflects a sensible balance, acknowledging the demands of an adventure-ready SUV while providing a tangible, manageable expense to its owner.

Real-world expectations

While EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can always fluctuate. For the 2025 Toyota 4Runner 2WD with the 2.4L 4-cylinder, owners can generally expect to hover close to the 22 MPG combined figure, provided they drive conscientiously. The typical 4Runner buyer is often an outdoor enthusiast, someone who loads up the cargo area with camping gear, bikes, or kayaks. Hauling extra weight, especially on roof racks, will inevitably decrease efficiency. Similarly, aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and sustained high speeds will pull the numbers down from the EPA’s estimates. However, for those who maintain reasonable cruising speeds and adopt a smooth driving style, the 4Runner is likely to impress. If you’re frequently towing or tackling challenging terrain that requires engaging the powertrain at higher loads, expect the numbers to dip, but for typical daily use and highway cruising, the 2.4L should prove consistently economical for its class. For more about this model’s efficiency across different generations, check out 4RUNNER MPG across all years.

How it compares

Comparing the 2025 4Runner 2WD 2.4L’s 22 MPG combined to its direct competitors shows an interesting landscape. Take the new Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, for instance, which is a unibody crossover, not a body-on-frame SUV. Its 2.0L turbo-four gets 23 MPG combined (21 City / 26 Highway). While slightly higher, the Bronco Sport also significantly differs in its underlying architecture and ultimate ruggedness. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 2WD with the 2.0L turbo-four only achieves 23 MPG combined (21 City / 24 Highway); a 4Runner buyer choosing the 2WD model often cross-shops the 2WD Wrangler for its aesthetic appeal, but the 4Runner still offers a considerable advantage in daily drivability and comfort. Even within the Toyota stable, a Highlander Hybrid FWD delivers a stellar 36 MPG combined, but it doesn’t offer the body-on-frame durability or the same level of off-road potential that the 4Runner is known for. The 4Runner’s 22 MPG combined puts it squarely in a commendable position for a truck-based SUV. It’s not just about matching others, it’s about delivering relevant efficiency for a vehicle built to a different, more robust standard. This specific 2WD, 4-cylinder configuration acknowledges a buyer who wants the 4Runner’s look and resilience without needing full-time 4WD or the higher running costs sometimes associated with more powerful engines. It provides genuine 4Runner capability with a newfound sensibility at the pump, offering an important option for a significant segment of Toyota’s loyal buyers. For a detailed look at other Toyota vehicles’ efficiency, dive into all Toyota fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to optimize your 4Runner’s fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure monthly, especially before longer trips.

Adopt a gentle driving style. Smooth acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions, rather than sudden braking, will significantly reduce fuel consumption. The 4Runner’s powertrain is designed for steady progress, not drag racing.

Minimize unnecessary weight. While the 4Runner boasts a strong payload capacity, extra gear that isn’t essential for your current trip adds to the vehicle’s mass, thereby decreasing efficiency. Remove heavy items from the cargo area when not in use.

Aerodynamics play a role too. If you have rooftop accessories like cargo boxes or bike racks, remove them when they are not actively being used. Even empty, they create drag that the engine must overcome, especially at highway speeds.

Regular maintenance, as outlined in your owner’s manual, ensures the engine and transmission are operating at peak efficiency. Clean air filters and properly serviced oil changes contribute to the longevity and fuel economy of your 2.4L 4Runner.