Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner: Which SUV is Right for You?
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota 4Runner can be a challenge, as both SUVs are known for reliability, performance, and versatility. At DELLA Toyota, we break down the key differences and advantages of each model to help you decide which one best suits your lifestyle—whether you’re looking for a family-friendly ride or an adventure-ready vehicle.
Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner – Interior Space and Comfort
The Toyota Highlander is crafted with families in mind, offering three rows of seating for up to eight passengers. Its spacious cabin features quality materials and a modern design, making it ideal for long drives or carpooling. With fold-flat seats and up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space, the Highlander offers ample room for groceries, sports gear, or luggage, making it a versatile choice for daily life and weekend getaways.
In contrast, the Toyota 4Runner has a more rugged interior setup focused on adventure. With seating for up to seven passengers (in select trims), the 4Runner is designed for those who prioritize durability and functionality. The 4Runner’s spacious cargo area can expand to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, giving you enough room to store camping gear, bikes, or other outdoor essentials.
Highlander or Toyota 4Runner? Off-Road Capabilities
For drivers seeking off-road capabilities, the Toyota 4Runner is hard to beat. Built on a body-on-frame chassis, the 4Runner is designed to tackle challenging terrains, with features like Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and optional locking rear differential for added traction. This makes the 4Runner an excellent choice for those who love off-road adventures and need a vehicle that can handle dirt trails, rocky paths, or steep inclines.
The Toyota Highlander, while not as rugged, still provides a smooth and confident drive on different surfaces. With available all-wheel drive and an Intelligent Drive Mode selector, it offers extra stability for inclement weather or light off-road use. The Highlander is ideal for those who value comfort and need an SUV that can handle winter roads, rainy conditions, or the occasional gravel road without sacrificing a refined ride.
Performance and Power
The Toyota 4Runner comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, giving it strong towing capabilities of up to 5,000 pounds. This makes the 4Runner a great option for those who plan to tow boats, trailers, or other equipment for weekend excursions.
The Toyota Highlander, on the other hand, offers a more fuel-efficient engine lineup, including a 2.5-liter hybrid option with an impressive estimated 36 MPG combined. For drivers seeking a balance of power and efficiency, the Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6 produces 295 horsepower and is well-suited for everyday driving as well as longer road trips. While the Highlander’s towing capacity tops out at 5,000 pounds like the 4Runner, its focus is on efficiency rather than raw power.
Highlander vs 4Runner Technology and Safety
Both the Highlander and 4Runner are equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, including features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control for added peace of mind on the road.
The Toyota Highlander stands out with its tech-rich interior, offering an available 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. It also includes features like Wi-Fi Connect and five USB ports, ensuring everyone stays connected on the go. For families who prioritize in-car entertainment and connectivity, the Highlander’s tech suite is a big advantage.
The Toyota 4Runner also offers modern technology, but its interior is designed to focus on functionality and simplicity. Its available 8-inch touchscreen provides access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the 4Runner keeps the controls straightforward and durable—perfect for off-road enthusiasts who want a more rugged approach.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Toyota Highlander is ideal if you’re looking for a family-friendly SUV with a spacious, comfortable interior, advanced tech, and better fuel efficiency. It’s perfect for those who want a refined ride for both daily driving and road trips, and it can still handle light off-road conditions when needed.
The Toyota 4Runner, by contrast, is a better choice if you crave adventure and need a vehicle that can handle rough terrains. With its rugged design, powerful V6 engine, and off-road features, the 4Runner is built for outdoor exploration and is more suited for drivers who value capability over luxury.
Explore the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner at DELLA Toyota!
Whether you’re leaning towards the family-ready comfort of the Toyota Highlander or the adventure-ready resilience of the Toyota 4Runner, we invite you to visit DELLA Toyota to experience both models firsthand. Our team is here to help you find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle!
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