Electric Cars

Toyota has introduced a compelling lease promotion for its newest and most robust off-road SUV, the 2025 4Runner Trailhunter, available this September. This exclusive offer aims to make the highly capable vehicle more accessible to enthusiasts looking to conquer challenging terrains. The lease structure and the vehicle's advanced features position it as a strong contender in the adventure vehicle market.

The September lease deal for the 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter is structured around a 36-month term with an annual mileage limit of 12,000 miles. Under these conditions, the monthly payment stands at $1,068, requiring an initial payment of $4,016 at signing, excluding taxes and other associated fees. For those with different driving habits, an option with a 10,000-mile annual limit is available, which, when combined with college or military rebates, can slightly reduce the monthly cost to $1,051. A notable inclusion in both offers is complimentary ToyotaCare scheduled maintenance for two years or up to 25,000 miles, adding value to the lease package. These figures are estimates and prospective lessees are advised to consult with a Toyota dealership or use Toyota's online payment estimator, ensuring their specific ZIP code is entered for precise local information.

For those considering a lease with no upfront payment, an estimation reveals that spreading the initial $3,739 down payment over the 36-month lease term would add approximately $112 to the monthly payment, bringing the total to $1,180. It is crucial to remember that this is an unofficial estimate, and actual zero-down offers or adjusted monthly payments should be verified directly with a Toyota dealership. Such calculations serve as a guide, providing a clearer picture of potential financial commitments.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter distinguishes itself as a factory-optimized adventure vehicle. Unlike its standard counterparts, this model is equipped with a turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 323 horsepower and a substantial 465 pound-feet of torque. Its foundation includes standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, complemented by a suite of serious off-road enhancements. These include OME off-road dampers, 33-inch Toyo tires, and an ARB roof rack, among other specialized components. The Trailhunter also boasts an elevated stance, sitting two inches higher at the front and being 3.2 inches wider than the base model, making it an ideal choice for serious off-road adventurers.

While the September lease offer shows a slight improvement over August's terms, prospective buyers might consider waiting to see if the fourth-quarter rates bring even more favorable conditions. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter carries a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $68,895, a price point comparable to some luxury sports sedans. However, its specialized design and robust features are tailored for traversing challenging wilderness, offering a distinct value proposition. Ultimately, the September lease deal presents a compelling opportunity for those ready to fully utilize the Trailhunter's formidable capabilities for outdoor exploration.

Ram has recently announced the cessation of development for its full-size, purely electric pickup truck, the Ram 1500 REV. This decision marks a significant change in the company's electrification strategy, initially unveiled at the 2023 New York Auto Show. The cancellation stems from an observed deceleration in demand for battery-electric trucks across North America, prompting Stellantis, Ram's parent company, to reassess its product roadmap. Consequently, the \"REV\" moniker will be repurposed for the hybrid Range-Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV), the Ramcharger, which will now assume the name Ram 1500 REV. This pivot highlights the dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the ongoing adjustments manufacturers are making in response to market trends and consumer preferences for electric and hybrid vehicles.

The initial reveal of the Ram 1500 REV positioned it as a direct competitor to other electric pickups, such as the Chevrolet Silverado EV and the Ford F-150 Lightning. It was set to be Ram's inaugural all-electric truck, with a planned launch in 2024. However, reports in May indicated a delay in its release until 2026, as the company began to prioritize the development of the Ramcharger hybrid.

A statement from Ram articulated the reasoning behind this strategic modification: \"As demand for full-size battery-electric trucks slows in North America, Stellantis is reassessing its product strategy and will discontinue development of a full-size BEV pickup.\" This highlights the challenges some automakers face in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle sector, where consumer adoption rates and infrastructure development play crucial roles.

Adding another layer to this shift, Ram has concurrently reintroduced the Hemi V-8 engine into its 1500 pickup lineup. Tim Kuniskis, the CEO, openly acknowledged the error in discontinuing this popular powertrain, stating, \"We screwed up.\" The return of the V-8 has been met with positive reception from buyers, underscoring a continued strong market preference for conventional, powerful engines, even as the industry navigates towards more sustainable options.

Ram's adjustment is not an isolated incident but rather indicative of a broader industry trend. Several other major automakers are also recalibrating their electric vehicle strategies. Audi, for instance, has reportedly called off the production of its forthcoming RS6 EV. Similarly, Honda has abandoned its plans for a large electric SUV, and Lamborghini is said to be re-evaluating its long-anticipated electric vehicle program. These collective actions signal a period of cautious reassessment within the automotive sector, as companies strive to balance innovation with market realities and profitability.

In summary, Ram's decision to discontinue the development of its all-electric 1500 REV pickup and reassign the name to its hybrid model reflects a responsive strategy to shifting market dynamics. This move, coupled with the reintroduction of the Hemi V-8, underscores the complexities of transitioning to electric powertrains while catering to diverse consumer demands. The automotive industry continues to adapt, with many manufacturers, including Audi, Honda, and Lamborghini, also revising their EV objectives in response to current market conditions.