The long-awaited 4Runner is here!

As we delved into this week’s newsletter, we couldn’t help but notice something: heavy-duty trucks, especially RAM, have been long overdue for a refresh. 

Not only that, but the rumor mills are turning. What will the 2025 Ram HD bring to the table? Perhaps, a 40,000-pound towing capacity? Fans are asking questions, and so are we. 

We discuss many new cars in this issue, and we’d love to hear your thoughts!

Key Takeaways

Don’t have much time? Here’s the summary of what we’re talking about

• The 2025 Toyota 4Runner promises a lot, including a more refined suspension and an optional third-row, while its new powertrain offers a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. However, it comes with a major sacrifice.

• The durability of RAM trucks is highlighted by a vehicle surpassing the 2-million-mile mark, showcasing the brand's longevity.

• Understanding towing regulations and the GVWR is crucial for heavy-duty truck owners to navigate the requirements for a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

KERN’S CORNER

Does The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Live Up To The Hype?

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is finally here, and everyone is talking about it. So, is all this hype with good reason? Let’s find out. 

For decades, the Toyota 4Runner has been a fan favorite. People love the rugged versatility this SUV offers. It combines reliability, great ground clearance, and excellent off-roading abilities for a complete package. 

However, in recent years, the 4Runner felt outdated. The fifth generation came in 2009, and there have been few improvements since then.

Not only that, but that platform was unrefined, using a robust yet unrefined transmission and a suspension that was similar in its lack of decor. 

We’ve written about the 4Runner’s excellent reliability but disappointing lack of upgrades.

So, when Toyota teased the new model, we were as eager as anybody else. Plus, other Toyota lineup vehicles like the Tundra had undergone significant changes, so we were excited. 

The New 4Runner Is a Complete Package

First things first, the 2025 4Runner keeps its essence, and that’s priceless. In a time where a rugged SUV is hard to find, the 4Runner reminds us that you can still buy an off-roader from the dealership and take it on an adventure. 

If you want to geek out on the 4Runner specifications, read this article.

Its looks are what you’d expect (and want) from a 4Runner–boxy and aggressive. However, this SUV grew up, having the same length as the Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Lexus GX.

Another new powerplant

For what seems an eternity (or 2002), the Toyota 4Runner relied on the trusty, durable 4.0L V6. There’s no denying that it worked, but we always wanted a bit more. 

Now, they stripped the V6 and installed the 2.4-liter iForce inline-four engine, which makes 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque—not bad.

You can also opt for the hybrid version, which puts out 346 hp, but more on having a hybrid later in this article. 

By the way, the guys at The Fast Lane cover the 4Runner Trail Runner, the most extreme version, and it’s incredibly cool.

Do we love the 4Runner?

In short, yes. It’s a great option for those looking for an adventure SUV and has Toyota reliability. Also, Toyota seems to do a great job aiming at the Bronco and Wrangler. 

Carscoops even says it can take them head on.

However, this doesn’t mean the car is perfect. Some issues raise our eyebrows, especially with the hybrid option. 

Our founder, Kern, has a new hybrid Sequoia, and you will first notice the reduced cargo room. These vehicles should be versatile, and a massive battery pack won’t help much. 

After all, you buy a big SUV to have cargo room, right? 

The same applies to the 4Runner. In what way?

The third-row option, which is incredibly handy, isn’t included in the hybrid version. 

That wasn’t the only question mark looming above the 4Runner and Toyota. 

The 4Runner has a new powertrain, excellent offroad ability, killer looks, and you can opt for third-row seating.

So, what’s the purpose of the new Land Cruiser then? 

It seems that Toyota could be cannibalizing its market, and that’s never a good thing. 

What do you think? Here’s a survey below!

BEST AND WORST

Are RAM high-mileage heroes?

This RAM surpassed the 2-million-mile marker, and that’s no easy feat. 

However, if one brand can do it, it’s RAM.

Our article covers everything you need to know about how long RAM trucks usually last and how to break the million-mile marker.

PS: If you replace the engine, will it still count? Let us know.

Deal of the week!

Those living in New York can land some great deals on the 2023 Ford Bronco! Here are some of them!

• Jeep Competitive Conquest Bonus Cash - $1,000 cash back (Expires: 07/09/24)

• Bonus Customer Cash - $1,000 cash back (Expires: 07/09/24)

• 2024 College Student Recognition Exclusive Cash Reward Pgm - $750 cash back (Expires: 01/03/25)

• 2024 Military Recognition Exclusive Cash Reward - $500 cash back (Expires: 01/03/25)

• 2024 First Responder Recognition Exclusive Cash Reward - $500 cash back (Expires: 01/03/25)

• UAW Member Offer - $1,500 cash back (Expires: 01/01/26)

Check out the information right here!

TIPS AND KNOW-HOW

How big a trailer can I tow without a CDL?

Here at FWT, we love heavy-duty trucks and we know towing is a critical factor in them. 

The RAM 3500 tops out at an astounding 37,090 lbs, but it’s not like you can start your truck, hitch a trailer and drive off. That’s because of one limiting factor: the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). 

So, how big a trailer can I tow without a CDL? The answer isn’t as straightforward. 

You need one essential information: the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). If you want to know more about GVWR, read this cool guide!

If you’re towing a trailer with a GVWR of less than 10,001 pounds, you don’t need a CDL. 

Any combination of vehicles with a Combined Gross Vehicle Weight Rating under 26,001 pounds does not need a CDL.

So, if your truck has a GVWR of 8,800 lbs and your trailer has a GVWR of 14,000 lbs, the total combination is 22,800 pounds. Thus, you don’t need a CDL. 

Everything changes when you exceed 26,000 pounds! Check out our explanatory diagram.

If you want to know more about this, read our in-depth article!

NEWSBITES

Every week, we scour the web for the most essential news. Here’s what you need to know this week:

• The US surpassed one million cars stolen in 2024

• The US new-car inventory reaches its highest mark since 2020

• Maybe, Americans just don’t want EVs?