2025 Toyota 4Runner: i-FORCE vs i-FORCE MAX Engine Comparison

[TRD JON]

So, the i-FORCE engine is solid for everyday driving. It’s got a good mix of power and efficiency that’s hard to beat.

But, if you’re looking for more towing power, extra torque off the line, and maybe even a little better gas mileage, then the i-FORCE MAX hybrid might be the way to go.

It's definitely the beefier option if you’re planning on hitting some serious trails or need that extra muscle for hauling or towing. Below is the spec sheet for the i-FORCE vs i-FORCE MAX Engine Comparison but let us know your thoughts below. Which one are you going with?

[/HEADING]

Engine Type & Technology​

• i-FORCE (2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine):
  • Engine Type: 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Turbocharged, Double Overhead Cam (DOHC)
  • Fuel System: D-4ST Fuel Injection
  • Ignition System: DIS (Direct) with iridium-tipped spark plugs
  • Fuel Type: Regular
• i-FORCE MAX (2.4L Hybrid Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine):
  • Engine Type: 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Hybrid Turbocharged, Double Overhead Cam (DOHC)
  • Fuel System: D-4ST Fuel Injection
  • Ignition System: DIS (Direct) with iridium-tipped spark plugs
  • Fuel Type: Regular

Performance​

• i-FORCE:
  • Horsepower: 278 hp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
• i-FORCE MAX:
  • Horsepower: 326 hp @ 6,000 rpm
  • Torque: 465 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm

Fuel Economy (MPG)​

• i-FORCE (EPA Estimated):
  • 2WD:
    • City: 20 MPG
    • Highway: 26 MPG
    • Combined: 22 MPG
  • 4WD:
    • City: 19 MPG
    • Highway: 25 MPG
    • Combined: 21 MPG
• i-FORCE MAX (EPA Estimated):
  • 4WD:
    • City: 23 MPG
    • Highway: 24 MPG
    • Combined: 23 MPG

Powertrain & Towing​

• i-FORCE:
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Max Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs (SAE J2807)
• i-FORCE MAX:
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission with Hybrid powertrain
  • Max Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs (SAE J2807)

Torque & Efficiency​

• i-FORCE:
  • The i-FORCE engine delivers solid performance with 278 horsepower and a torque output of 317 lb-ft. It's efficient for everyday driving with good fuel economy for a non-hybrid engine.
• i-FORCE MAX:
  • The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain significantly boosts torque to 465 lb-ft, offering superior low-end power and towing capacity. This makes the i-FORCE MAX an excellent choice for those who need additional power for off-road adventures or heavy towing, all while maintaining impressive fuel economy.

 

[Trail4R]

Does the added cost of the i-FORCE MAX justify the benefits for everyday driving or off-road use though? We need to see you wheeling the crap out of one of these Hybrids Jon. Don't let us down. haha

 

[rustytaco]

Does the added cost of the i-FORCE MAX justify the benefits for everyday driving or off-road use though? We need to see you wheeling the crap out of one of these Hybrids Jon. Don't let us down. haha

New Tacoma owners that have had both report good things. The power is way better and more enjoyable to drive. I would think the torque would be very helpful off-road as well. More hp and tq. And better MPG. And better resale. How could you go wrong?

 

[TRD JON]

Does the added cost of the i-FORCE MAX justify the benefits for everyday driving or off-road use though? We need to see you wheeling the crap out of one of these Hybrids Jon. Don't let us down. haha

Ya, I'd say it is the power and the enjoyable driving you get out of the hybrid vs the insane MPG. The around-town MPG is solid compared to the nonhybrid, especially for the OR.

 

[Riviera]

New Tacoma owners that have had both report good things. The power is way better and more enjoyable to drive. I would think the torque would be very helpful off-road as well. More hp and tq. And better MPG. And better resale. How could you go wrong?

Hybrid should have better resale only because its costs a few grand more to begin with. These aren't huge but there are a couple downside factors to consider re: total cost of ownership of hybrid vs nonhybrid: Insurance is higher, and in states where registration is based on value, that's higher every year too. I'd bet the resale increase won't be 1-for 1 though, but time will tell.

Unless I'm mis-reading the price numbers, adding the hybrid to the '25 4Runner is about $900 cheaper than adding hybrid to the Tacoma (for '24 it cost $3700 to add hybrid to a taco). Any ideas why adding the hybrid would cost less for the 4Runner? I thought they were essentially the same platform.