Toyota 4runner vs bronco sport: which is the king of the trail?
What To Know
- The Bronco Sport has a more modern and tech-savvy interior, with a large touchscreen display, a SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a host of driver-assistance features.
- The three-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the four-cylinder engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- The 4Runner offers a more comprehensive suite of off-roading features and a more powerful engine, but the Bronco Sport has a more modern interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price.
When it comes to off-roading prowess and rugged reliability, the Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco Sport stand out as formidable contenders. These midsize SUVs offer a blend of capability, adventure, and everyday practicality, making them ideal choices for outdoor enthusiasts and urban dwellers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the 4Runner and Bronco Sport, helping you determine which beast reigns supreme.
Powertrains and Performance
The 4Runner boasts a potent 4.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, it provides ample power for tackling trails and towing heavy loads. On the other hand, the Bronco Sport offers a more diverse range of engine options. The base model features a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower, while the Badlands trim gets a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 250 horsepower. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Off-Roading Capabilities
Both the 4Runner and Bronco Sport are equipped with advanced off-roading systems. The 4Runner’s TRD Pro trim features a locking rear differential, crawl control, and a multi-terrain select system that optimizes traction on various surfaces. The Bronco Sport’s Badlands trim comes with a terrain management system, a locking rear differential, and trail control, which maintains a constant speed on steep inclines and descents. However, the 4Runner’s longer wheelbase and greater ground clearance give it an edge in severe off-road conditions.
Interior and Features
Inside, the 4Runner offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers. It features a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Bronco Sport has a more modern and tech-savvy interior, with a large touchscreen display, a SYNC 3 infotainment system, and a host of driver-assistance features. Both SUVs offer ample cargo space, with the 4Runner having a larger maximum capacity.
Towing and Payload
The 4Runner’s robust powertrain and rugged construction enable it to tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the Bronco Sport can tow a maximum of 2,200 pounds. The 4Runner also has a higher payload capacity, rated at 1,450 pounds compared to the Bronco Sport’s 1,400 pounds.
Fuel Economy
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Bronco Sport has a slight advantage. The three-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the four-cylinder engine gets 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The 4Runner’s V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Pricing and Value
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner has a starting price of $37,305, while the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport starts at $34,290. The 4Runner offers a more comprehensive suite of off-roading features and a more powerful engine, but the Bronco Sport has a more modern interior, better fuel economy, and a lower starting price.
Verdict: The Ultimate Off-Roader
The Toyota 4Runner and Ford Bronco Sport are both exceptional midsize SUVs with impressive off-roading capabilities. However, the 4Runner stands out as the ultimate off-roader due to its legendary reliability, robust powertrain, and superior ground clearance. While the Bronco Sport offers a more modern interior and better fuel economy, its off-roading prowess falls short of the 4Runner’s long-established reputation. Ultimately, the choice between these two beasts depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The 4Runner’s 4.0-liter V6 engine produces more horsepower and torque than the Bronco Sport‘s engines.
Q: Which vehicle has better off-roading capabilities?
A: The 4Runner’s TRD Pro trim offers more advanced off-roading features, including a locking rear differential and crawl control.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The 4Runner has a larger cabin with more seating and cargo space.
Q: Which vehicle gets better fuel economy?
A: The Bronco Sport‘s three-cylinder engine offers better fuel economy than the 4Runner’s V6 engine.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Bronco Sport has a lower starting price than the 4Runner.