Suv showdown: toyota highlander vs. 4runner – which rules the road?

When it comes to midsize SUVs, two Toyota titans stand head-to-head: the Highlander and the 4Runner. Both offer a blend of capability, comfort, and reliability, but which one is the better choice for your needs? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to determine which Toyota SUV reigns supreme.

Performance and Capability

Highlander: The Highlander prioritizes comfort and efficiency with its 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth shifting, while the available all-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction in slippery conditions.

4Runner: The 4Runner, on the other hand, is a true off-road warrior. Its 4.0-liter V6 engine generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner’s body-on-frame construction and advanced four-wheel drive system with a locking rear differential make it an unstoppable force in rugged terrain.

Fuel Economy

Highlander: The Highlander’s fuel economy is superior to the 4Runner’s, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel drive model. The all-wheel drive version sees a slight decrease to 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

4Runner: The 4Runner sacrifices fuel efficiency for off-road prowess, with an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway for the two-wheel drive model. The four-wheel drive versions get 15 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway.

Interior Comfort and Space

Highlander: The Highlander offers a spacious and comfortable interior with three rows of seating. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, providing ample room for passengers. Its infotainment system features an intuitive touchscreen interface, navigation, and smartphone integration.

4Runner: The 4Runner’s interior is more rugged and utilitarian, with a focus on durability rather than luxury. The seats are firm and supportive, but may not be as comfortable for long drives. Its infotainment system is less advanced than the Highlander’s, but still offers basic functionality.

Cargo Capacity

Highlander: The Highlander boasts a generous cargo capacity of 16.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 48.4 cubic feet behind the second row, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows folded down.

4Runner: The 4Runner’s cargo capacity is slightly smaller, with 9.0 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 89.7 cubic feet with both rows folded down.

Off-Road Performance

Highlander: The Highlander is not designed for serious off-roading, but its all-wheel drive system can handle light off-pavement adventures.

4Runner: The 4Runner is a true off-road beast. Its advanced four-wheel drive system, low-range gearing, and locking rear differential allow it to conquer challenging trails with ease.

Price

Highlander: The Highlander’s starting price is lower than the 4Runner’s, ranging from $36,420 to $50,525 for the 2023 model year.

4Runner: The 4Runner’s starting price is higher than the Highlander’s, ranging from $40,655 to $53,805 for the 2023 model year.

Which Toyota SUV is Right for You?

Highlander: If you prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and a spacious interior, the Toyota Highlander is the ideal choice. It offers a comfortable ride, plenty of space for passengers and cargo, and a solid blend of performance and efficiency.

4Runner: If you’re looking for an unstoppable off-roader with rugged durability, the Toyota 4Runner is your match. It sacrifices some fuel economy and interior refinement for its exceptional off-road capabilities.

Popular Questions

1. Which Toyota SUV has better towing capacity?

• The 4Runner has a higher towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, compared to the Highlander’s 3,500 pounds.

2. Which Toyota SUV is more reliable?

• Both the Highlander and 4Runner have excellent reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Associates.

3. Which Toyota SUV has a better warranty?

• The Highlander and 4Runner both come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

4. Which Toyota SUV is more fuel-efficient?

• The Highlander is more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the 4Runner’s 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.

5. Which Toyota SUV has a more comfortable interior?

• The Highlander has a more comfortable and spacious interior than the 4Runner, with well-cushioned seats and a more advanced infotainment system.