toyota highlander vs 4runner: An In-Depth Comparison
When choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota 4Runner, potential buyers are often faced with a dilemma. Both SUVs offer distinct features and advantages that cater to different needs and preferences. This comprehensive comparison will help you understand the differences and similarities between these two popular models, aiding you in making an informed decision.
Overview
The Toyota Highlander and the Toyota 4Runner are two of Toyota’s most popular SUVs, each serving different segments of the market. The Highlander is known for its comfort, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. In contrast, the 4Runner is celebrated for its rugged off-road capabilities and durability.
Design and Dimensions
Toyota Highlander
The 2024 Toyota Highlander features a sleek, modern design with a focus on comfort and practicality. It measures 194.9 inches in length, 76.0 inches in width, and 68.1 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 112.2 inches. This SUV offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families​​.
Toyota 4Runner
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, has a more robust and traditional SUV design. It is slightly shorter in length at 190.2 inches but maintains a similar width at 75.8 inches and stands taller at 71.5 inches. The wheelbase is slightly shorter at 109.8 inches. The 4Runner’s design prioritizes off-road performance, which is evident in its higher ground clearance and tougher exterior​​.
Performance
Engine and Powertrain
The Highlander comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, there is a hybrid variant featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with electric motors, offering a total of 243 horsepower​.
The 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine generating 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine setup is designed to handle tough terrains and heavy loads, making the 4Runner a go-to choice for off-road enthusiasts​​.
Fuel Efficiency
Toyota Highlander
Fuel efficiency is a significant advantage of the Highlander. The gas model achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 24 mpg for the front-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel-drive version offers slightly lower numbers at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The hybrid model excels with 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Toyota 4Runner
In contrast, the 4Runner’s fuel efficiency is lower due to its larger engine and off-road capabilities. It averages 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway for the 4×2 model, with the 4×4 version slightly lower at 20 mpg on the highway​​.
Interior and Comfort
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander’s interior is designed for comfort and convenience. It offers seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, with features such as a modern infotainment system, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and advanced safety features. The cargo space is generous, providing up to 84 cubic feet with the rear seats folded​.
Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner focuses on durability and functionality. It can seat up to seven passengers with the optional third row but is generally more utilitarian inside. The interior includes practical features designed for off-road use, such as water-resistant fabric seats. The cargo capacity is impressive, offering up to 90 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down​.
Technology and Safety
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander is packed with advanced technology and safety features. Standard equipment includes Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5+ suite, which offers adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen with navigation, and premium models add features like a panoramic sunroof and a premium audio system​​.
Toyota 4Runner
While the 4Runner also includes essential safety features such as Toyota’s Safety Sense P, its technology offerings are more basic compared to the Highlander. It includes features like a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but it focuses more on off-road-specific technologies like a multi-terrain select system and crawl control in higher trims​.
Off-Road Capability
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander offers all-wheel drive, but it is primarily designed for on-road comfort and light off-road use. It is capable of handling snow and moderate trails, making it suitable for families who occasionally venture off the beaten path​.
Toyota 4Runner
The 4Runner is built for serious off-roading. It comes with features such as a body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, skid plates, and available four-wheel drive with a locking rear differential. Higher trims, like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro, include additional off-road enhancements such as upgraded suspension systems and off-road tires.
Pricing
The 2024 Highlander starts at around $39,270, with higher trims reaching up to $50,000. The hybrid models start slightly higher due to their advanced powertrains​​.
The 2024 4Runner has a starting price of approximately $40,155, with the TRD Pro model exceeding $50,000. These prices reflect the 4Runner’s specialized off-road capabilities and rugged construction​.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota 4Runner depends on your needs and lifestyle. The Highlander excels in comfort, fuel efficiency, and family-friendly features, making it a great choice for daily commuting and family road trips. On the other hand, the 4Runner is unmatched in off-road performance and durability, ideal for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.
By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model, you can make an informed decision that best suits your requirements. Whether you prioritize comfort and technology or ruggedness and off-road prowess, both the Highlander and 4Runner have something valuable to offer.
