First 4runner. First post. First Trip Report.

Hey everyone — wanted to share my first real experience with the new 6th gen for anyone who is cross-shopping or considering the SR5, and also to get some input from other owners. This is my first 4Runner, first long trip in it, and I paid close attention to what it’s like in actual use, not just in a test drive or spec sheet.

Vehicle:
2025 4Runner SR5
Cutting Edge (silver), 4x4, 3-row
On Nitto Ridge Grapplers (265/65R17)
Running Premium (93/91) for now

We bought it as a family surf and travel vehicle. Something reliable that can soak up miles, drive beaches and trails occasionally, and complement my 2019 Golf R (which fills the “precision / performance” role).

The Trip
850 miles round-trip to Disney and back. Mostly highway, FL posted speeds are 70 mph and I kept it around there. I didn’t pin cruise for super long stretches — varied speed naturally with traffic and break-in in mind. The car had about 340 miles on it when I started the trip.

Fuel economy:
24.2 mpg down (tailwind) / 23.3 mpg back up (headwind)
For a 4x4 SUV on all-terrains, I’m happy with that.

Ride and Driving Feel
Ride is comfortable enough. Impacts still come through but in a soft, brushed-over way. Very similar to our RAV4, just heavier and calmer. Compared to my Golf R, obviously a different world — but no surprises. Highway stability is good. Easy to settle into. Passing power at 70–80 mph was better than I expected.

Noise Impressions (No Music Playing)
We were talking in the cabin most of the trip, so I heard the vehicle clearly.

Engine/Turbo Sound: The turbo is definitely audible. Slight diesel-van vibe. I don’t dislike it, but I wouldn’t say I’m a “fan” of the tone either. I know the SR5 comes without the hood insulator, so I expected that. Curious how much improvement the OEM hood pad makes if added.
Tire Noise: Nitto Ridge Grapplers add some texture. Not intrusive — just present.
Wind Noise: Normal SUV levels.
Subtle Rhythmic hiss When Cruising: This is the one I’d really like input on. At steady highway speed with no music, I noticed a light hiss. Not loud, and not constant, but noticeable (every 20 seconds or so for about 3 seconds). Almost like a soft air release ("psssssssssssss" ... lol).

If any 6th gen owners recognize that characteristic, I’d love to compare notes.

Comfort & Interior

• Seats were comfortable the entire trip.
• Layout makes sense for family travel.
• The base SR5 stereo is actually decent. Better than our RAV4 XLE base system.

Overall Takeaway
This is exactly what I bought it for:

• Simple, capable travel companion
• Easy long-distance comfort
• Stable and predictable on the highway
• Enough personality that it feels like a purpose-built vehicle, not a generic appliance

Not trying to be sporty. Just good at being a 4Runner.

Looking for Input

1. Has anyone added the OEM hood insulator to the SR5? Worth it?
2. Anyone notice a cyclic hiss under steady highway cruising with no music on?

Happy to answer any questions about the trip, comfort, tires, 3-row setup, etc.

Looks awesome!

OffRoadUSA.com said:

Looks awesome!

Click to expand...

Thanks!
I am planning to do some mods, but I want to get used to the truck first.