4runner vs. grand highlander: the ultimate comparison guide for off-road enthusiasts

The midsize SUV market is a fiercely competitive one, with two of the most popular options being the Toyota 4Runner and the new Toyota Grand Highlander. Both vehicles offer a blend of capability, comfort, and style, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we’ll put these two SUVs head-to-head and compare them in several key areas to help you decide which one is the right choice for you.

Performance and Capability

The 4Runner is known for its off-road prowess, with a rugged body-on-frame construction and a powerful V6 engine. It comes standard with four-wheel drive and a variety of off-road features, such as a locking rear differential and hill descent control. The Grand Highlander, on the other hand, is more focused on on-road comfort and performance. It has a unibody construction and a choice of two V6 engines or a hybrid powertrain. While it’s not as capable off-road as the 4Runner, it still offers all-wheel drive for added traction in slippery conditions.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Grand Highlander has a clear advantage in terms of interior space. It’s longer and wider than the 4Runner, which gives it more room for passengers and cargo. The Grand Highlander also has a more modern and upscale interior, with features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, heated and cooled seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The 4Runner’s interior is more utilitarian, with a focus on durability and functionality. It has a smaller touchscreen, fewer soft-touch materials, and less legroom in the second row.

Fuel Economy

The Grand Highlander is more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner, especially in its hybrid form. The hybrid Grand Highlander can get up to 36 mpg in combined driving, while the 4Runner gets only 19 mpg in combined driving. If fuel economy is a top priority for you, the Grand Highlander is the clear choice.

Safety Features

Both the 4Runner and the Grand Highlander come standard with a full suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Grand Highlander also offers a few additional safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Price and Value

The 4Runner has a lower starting price than the Grand Highlander, but it also has less standard equipment. The Grand Highlander comes standard with features that are optional on the 4Runner, such as a sunroof, leather seats, and a larger touchscreen. Overall, the Grand Highlander offers better value for money, especially if you’re looking for a well-equipped SUV.

Which SUV is Right for You?

The Toyota 4Runner and the Grand Highlander are both excellent SUVs, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The 4Runner is the better choice if you need a rugged off-road vehicle, while the Grand Highlander is the better choice if you’re looking for a more comfortable and fuel-efficient SUV with more interior space.

Final Note: The Ultimate Choice

Ultimately, the best way to decide which SUV is right for you is to test drive both of them and see which one you prefer. Both the 4Runner and the Grand Highlander are excellent vehicles, and they both offer a lot of value for money. The 4Runner is a great choice for off-road enthusiasts, while the Grand Highlander is a great choice for families and anyone who wants a comfortable and fuel-efficient SUV.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which SUV has more off-road capability, the 4Runner or the Grand Highlander?
A: The 4Runner has more off-road capability than the Grand Highlander, with a body-on-frame construction, four-wheel drive, and a locking rear differential.

Q: Which SUV has more interior space, the 4Runner or the Grand Highlander?
A: The Grand Highlander has more interior space than the 4Runner, with more legroom and cargo space.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the 4Runner or the Grand Highlander?
A: The Grand Highlander is more fuel-efficient than the 4Runner, especially in its hybrid form.

Q: Which SUV has more safety features, the 4Runner or the Grand Highlander?
A: Both the 4Runner and the Grand Highlander come standard with a full suite of safety features, but the Grand Highlander offers a few additional features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Q: Which SUV is a better value for money, the 4Runner or the Grand Highlander?
A: The Grand Highlander offers better value for money than the 4Runner, especially if you’re looking for a well-equipped SUV.