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Don’t get me wrong, I’ve driven 4Runners on and off since my teenage years, and loved every one. But at these prices (a fully-loaded, brand-new 4Runner might run buyers a hot $75,000), many of us need to look elsewhere. Here’s a lineup of new SUVs that might actually be more appealing.

For context, I found a used 2022 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4WD listed on CarMax today for $41,998. While that’s considered a fair price, it’s still a three-year-old body-on-frame model costing more than many brand-new SUVs that offer better fuel efficiency, fresh tech, and full factory warranties. Let’s get going.

Want the off-road flair of a 4Runner, or at least some certain performance?

First up is the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport. The base Big Bend trim starts around $30,995, and even the off-road-ready Badlands lands just over $40,000 with a 2.0L turbo engine, all-wheel drive, and terrain modes. It’s perfect for those who want rugged looks and fun handling without the used price premium.

The 2025 Nissan Rogue Rock Creek, starting at about $34,880, brings VC-Turbo power, AWD, and rugged styling touches like all-terrain tires and hill descent control.

Then there’s the 2025 Mazda CX‑30 Turbo Premium Plus, priced around $36,950. As its name suggests, it delivers a 2.5 L turbo engine with up to 250 hp, standard AWD, crisp handling, and a “surprisingly” upscale interior.

If you seek efficiency…

Check out the 2025 Honda CR‑V Hybrid and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Both are priced under $42k. Edmunds highlights the CR-V for its spacious interior and safety features. The Santa Fe adds a third row option and strong fuel economy in one package.

As far as electric SUVs, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV is tempting. It starts at $33,600 and offers around 356 miles of range.

For compact crossover shoppers craving fuel efficiency and who have half a 4Runner budget, the 2025 Nissan Kicks starts at about $21,830 and now offers AWD, 12.3‑inch screens, and good safety ratings. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax, starting around $20,500, gets an 11‑inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay. The Buick Envista, built on the same platform as the Trax, starts in the $25k range.

All of these fresh-from-the-factory SUVs give you new tech, full warranties, and a cleaner history. All without paying more than a three‑year‑old 4Runner. You might lose some rugged towing, but you’ll gain efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind.

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Editor-in-Chief

Sarah Kennedy

Sarah Kennedy is the Editor-in-Chief of MotorBiscuit. She joined the team as Managing Editor in 2021 and has more than 20 years of automotive and operations expertise. She held ASE certifications as an Automotive Service Consultant and Parts Specialist and was a licensed car salesperson for many years. Sarah often focuses on helping drivers navigate used car buying and vehicle ownership. She created “Shop Smarts,” a column for MOTOR Magazine, and was a contributor there for eight years. Her work earned her a Gold Medalist award from the American Society of Business Publication Editors in 2014 and Bronze Medalist awards from the International Automotive Media Competition in 2014 and 2015. She attended the Automotive Management Institute and earned her bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University.

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