Battle for dominance: toyota 4runner vs tacoma – performance, features, and value revealed
What To Know
- Both the 4Runner and Tacoma offer a range of engine options, but the 4Runner has a slight edge in terms of power and torque.
- The Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma offer a range of interior features and technology, but the 4Runner has a slight edge in terms of comfort and convenience.
- The Tacoma’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 4Runner’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to rugged off-road vehicles, two names stand out: the Toyota 4Runner and the Toyota Tacoma. These legendary SUVs have earned their reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road prowess. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota 4Runner against the Tacoma to help you make an informed decision.
Body Style and Dimensions
The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV with a traditional body-on-frame construction. It offers a spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers. The Tacoma, on the other hand, is a compact pickup truck with a separate cab and bed. It’s available in extended cab and crew cab configurations, with seating for up to five passengers.
Engine Options and Performance
Both the 4Runner and Tacoma offer a range of engine options, but the 4Runner has a slight edge in terms of power and torque. The base engine in the 4Runner is a 4.0-liter V6 with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The Tacoma offers a choice of two engines: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the 4Runner and Tacoma are renowned for their off-road capabilities. However, the 4Runner has a slight advantage due to its longer wheelbase and more sophisticated suspension system. The 4Runner comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive system and an optional four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case. The Tacoma also comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but it offers a choice of two four-wheel-drive systems: a part-time system with a manual transfer case and a full-time system with an automatic transfer case.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The Toyota 4Runner has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds. The 4Runner’s maximum payload capacity is 1,550 pounds, while the Tacoma’s maximum payload capacity is 1,685 pounds.
Interior Features and Technology
The Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma offer a range of interior features and technology, but the 4Runner has a slight edge in terms of comfort and convenience. The 4Runner comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Tacoma comes standard with a smaller 6.1-inch touchscreen. The 4Runner also offers a wider range of available features, such as heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Safety Features
Both the Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma come standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and traction control. The 4Runner offers a slightly wider range of available safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Price and Value
The Toyota 4Runner has a starting price of $37,545, while the Tacoma has a starting price of $27,150. The 4Runner offers a higher level of standard equipment and features, but the Tacoma is more affordable.
Wrap-Up: The Best Choice for Your Adventure
Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a spacious and comfortable SUV with exceptional off-road capabilities, the 4Runner is the way to go. If you’re looking for a more affordable and versatile vehicle that can handle both on-road and off-road driving, the Tacoma is a great choice.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Tacoma has slightly better fuel economy than the 4Runner. The Tacoma’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 4Runner’s EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a better resale value?
A: The 4Runner has a slightly better resale value than the Tacoma. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 4Runner has a projected resale value of 60% after five years, while the Tacoma has a projected resale value of 55% after five years.
Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both the 4Runner and Tacoma are known for their reliability. According to J.D. Power, the 4Runner has a reliability rating of 83 out of 100, while the Tacoma has a reliability rating of 82 out of 100.