Believe it or not, in 2025, many Ford Bronco owners are switching to Toyota 4Runner over reliability and safety concerns. This model year is witnessing intriguing trends, from brand swaps to the return of square and boxy cars and the electrification of 1970s and 1980s design.
A growing number of Ford Bronco owners are making a surprise shift towards the all-new Toyota 4Runner. This is not just about switching brands. It is about real-world stuff like reliability, safety, overall ownership experience, and, in many cases, frustration.
So, what exactly is happening, and should you also make the switch? Let’s find out.
Bronco Owners Share Why They’re Choosing the 2025 4Runner
Many Bronco owners and potential buyers are swapping it for 4Runner due to several recalls, mechanical failures, and rising repair costs. This beloved Ford SUV model has always been the ultimate off-roader.
It made a comeback in 2021 and was greeted by the community with excitement and nostalgia. Almost every adventurer was eager to get behind this ride and explore the toughest terrain America has to offer.
But fast forward to 2025, and you will find some owners facing frustration with their Bronco instead of adventure. The people who have always been true to Ford are now switching to Toyota. What’s truly intriguing is that this has not happened in a day. Several factors are pushing US buyers to reconsider their SUV loyalty:
Recalls and Safety Concerns
The Bronco made a comeback, as expected from a legend. Like many other Bronco fans, I was on cloud 9. However, the sailing has not been as smooth as you want it to be. In May, Ford recalled over 1 million vehicles, including the 2021-2024 Bronco, due to a rearview software glitch that could lead to accidents.
Even more alarming things happened when Ford issued a “Do Not Drive” advisory for certain latest Bronco models. Defective suspension parts that were prone to breakage were the culprit, making me feel good about owning a Kia Telluride.
These incidents have shaken the confidence of the owners, something everyone can understand. One Highway Pulse user shared: “I know 3 people personally who had engine or transmission failures on their Bronco within the first 3 months. I’ve never seen anyone with issues like that in a 4Runner. Ever.”
Reliability Expectations
The early Bronco buyers have reported widespread issues: oil leaks, crooked bumpers, rattling windows, transmission troubles, and suspension problems. It does not only raise safety concerns but also its long-term reliability.
One buyer even shared across a forum how his model had a crooked bumper, bad transmission, and rattling windows. Although all the issues were fixed under warranty, the rattles in the window come and go.
For drivers who use their SUVs for long road trips, camping, or overlanding, reliability is a necessity. This becomes a non-negotiable if you live in off-road-heavy states like Colorado and Arizona. Great reliability is what will keep you from getting stranded on a dirt trail in the middle of nowhere. It is a way of life, something Toyota has embodied over the years.
What Makes the 2025 4Runner More Appealing?
While the Bronco is gaining traction for all the wrong reasons, the newly redesigned 4Runner is turning heads for all the right ones. For the new model year, Toyota’s 4Runner boasts a worthy redesign not only in terms of looks but also in terms of power and performance.
I even found one Denver buyer saying how happy they are that Toyota finally gave its fanatics a modern 4Runner, which checks every box from off-road capability and reliability to everyday driving comfort.
Key Highlights
- Looks tougher but drives even smoother.
- Better aerodynamics and visibility actually make a difference on rough roads.
- Better fuel economy with more hauling power.
- Upgraded infotainment system
- More cargo space.
- Use of premium materials within the cabin.
- Off-roading gets smarter with multiple terrain modes and more.
Major Redesign After 15 Years
The 4Runner was due to a change in the last 15 years, and Toyota finally gave it one. The latest release is built on the TNGA-F platform body-on-frame platform, which it shares with the heavy-duty pickup Tacoma and five-seater SUV Land Cruiser. This Japanese vehicle now offers more refinement, structural strength, and tech-forward build.
New Engine Options
Toyota sweetened the deal by offering not one but two engine options. You can now choose between a turbocharged gasoline engine and a hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain. Both options deliver more power, torque, and better gas mileage than the outgoing V6 variant.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Just because a vehicle is built for off-roading does not mean it is totally okay if it lacks in other matters. Comfort and advanced tech are paramount in modern cars, but sometimes they cost off-road vehicles their rawness.
Toyota made sure that didn’t happen. Its new SUV comes with a large touchscreen, a quieter cabin, and premium materials. It gets modern with time but does not sacrifice its rugged roots.
Is the Toyota 4Runner More Reliable Than the Ford Bronco?
Yes. According to Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, the 4Runner consistently ranks higher in reliability and long-term ownership cost than the Ford Bronco. And while the official scores for this year are still rolling out, early owner feedback already favors the 4Runner.
Toyota did not get its reputation for impressive reliability overnight. It has been built over the years on the back of strong vehicles, especially the 4Runner and Tacoma model lineups.
The 4Runner is known for lasting 200,000+ miles, with many US drivers keeping theirs for a decade or more. In contrast, the Ford Bronco is still struggling to find its place after its reintroduction.
Resale value and cost of ownership are other key points where the Toyota family ride shines over Ford’s adventure hauler. Kelly Blue Book has regularly listed the 4Runner as a top SUV for resale value. The vehicle even topped for having the best resale value in the best off-road SUV or Crossover category in 2025 Best Resale Value Award.
While the Toyota SUV is writing history, Ford is having trouble with Bronco’s declining value mainly due to recurring mechanical issues. As one Missouri-based auto tech put it, ” The 4Runner is the kind of vehicle you pass down to your kids. The Bronco is fun, but fun doesn’t always last.” Words of wisdom I might say.
Should You Switch from a Bronco to a 4Runner?
It depends on your preference and what kind of driver you are. If you are an off-road fanatic, both SUVs are capable, but Toyota’s reliability edge makes it a safer choice for the long term.
However, for daily commuters, 4Runner offers a smoother ride. Its hybrid option might make it more pocket-friendly in terms of fuel consumption and maintenance, like engine oil changes, topping off fluids, tire replacement, and more.
But this does not mean Bronco has nothing to offer. This American SUV offers removable doors and roofs, a more engaging driving experience, and a unique personality that can easily make you stand out.
If you prefer the adventurous lifestyle Bronco associates with and are honestly okay with a few bumps that you may encounter, go for it. However, if your priority lies in getting a more dependable driving partner, the latest 4Runner is a compelling upgrade worthy of your time and money.
To help you understand better, here is a table that gives an overview of which SUV is better for which kind of driver.
| Driver Profile | Better Choice |
| City Commuter | 4Runner (Availability of Hybrid Option) |
| Weekend Off-Roader | Tie (But 4Runner Is More Proven) |
| Customization Enthusiast | Bronco (Better Aftermarket Support) |
| Long-Term Family SUV Buyer | 4Runner (Reliable, Spacious, Excellent Resale Value) |
| First-Time SUV Buyer | 4Runner (Lower Investment Risk) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can the 2025 4Runner tow?
Up to 6,000 pounds. It is enough for you to tow a camper, a small boat, or even a couple of ATVs. Just make sure it’s well-equipped before you hit the road.
Is the Bronco under recall again?
Yep. This year alone, Ford recalled over a million vehicles, including Broncos, due to a glitch in the rearview camera system and faulty suspension parts.
Does the new 4Runner come in a hybrid?
Yes. Toyota finally added a hybrid option called the i-FORCE MAX, which offers more power and helps you save in these times of rising gas prices. There is no compromise with off-road capabilities.
Is the new Bronco still a good off-roader?
Absolutely. It comes with serious off-road gear, including Goes-Over-Any-Terrain Modes, has high clearance, and even a front stabilizer bar that disconnects for gnarlier trails. Ford has only strengthened its roots.
Final Thoughts
The Ford Bronco is plagued with mechanical setbacks and recurring recalls, making its buyers look for a more secure option. Toyota 4Runner, with its comprehensive redesign and enhanced reliability, is already taking advantage of the opportunity.
But before making a switch, I recommend weighing the pros and cons of both vehicles, taking them for a test drive, and digging up more on the real-world experiences of fellow drivers.
Putting in a little bit of effort can help you understand which SUV truly fits your lifestyle and driving needs.
