Toyota Highlander vs 4Runner
There are few classes of vehicles as exciting as the SUV class. SUVs offer an exciting driving experience, meeting key needs in areas such as power and performance, MPG, interior space, safety, and more. For drivers near Hyannis, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, MA, two available SUVs that will perform exceptionally well in these categories are the Toyota Highlander and Toyota 4Runner.
How do these two rides compare? Find out in this piece from our team at Ira Toyota of Hyannis, where we compare the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner!
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4Runner: Performance Under the Hood
An important area to examine on any SUV is the powertrain working under the hood. Fortunately, both the Highlander and 4Runner come with impressive powertrain configurations and corresponding performances. Furthermore, the Highlander and 4Runner both come standard with powerful V6 engines. However, there is a slight difference between the two. The Highlander’s engine comes with 3.5L of displacement, while the 4Runner’s comes with 4.0L of displacement.
As these engines are slightly different, you will find slightly different output offerings. The Highlander pumps out 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, while the 4Runner generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Either way, you’ll have a powerful SUV.
These SUVs also both offer impressive fuel economy figures when considering their size and class. The 4Runner earns an EPA-estimated 16 city/19 highway MPG.1 Meanwhile, the Highlander earns an EPA-estimated 21 city/29 highway MPG.2
Highlander vs 4Runner: Capabilities
Aside from raw engine power, both of these SUVs are very capable in several categories. Taking a look at towing, you’ll see both afford you the ability to tow a significantly sized trailer with gear for the weekend adventure. In this department, you’ll find both SUVs come ready to tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
For added versatility, both SUVs also offer available upgraded drivetrains. The Highlander offers available All-Wheel Drive, while the 4Runner offers available Four-Wheel Drive. Either of these systems will provide added capability when looking to conquer adverse driving conditions.
The Highlander and 4Runner are also quite capable when it comes to their interior space. Both offer the ability to seat seven or eight passengers. However, you will find that the Highlander comes standard with third-row seating, while you’ll need to add the optional third-row seating in the 4Runner to achieve this capacity. Take a look at some of the interior dimensions you’ll find in the Highlander and 4Runner.
Highlander Dimensions:
- Headroom (front/second/third): 41.2 inches/39.4 inches/36.1 inches
- Legroom (front/second/third): 42 inches/41 inches/27.7 inches
- Shoulder Room (front/second/third): 59 inches/58.7 inches/55 inches
- Hip Room (front/second/third): 57.2 inches/57 inches/45.6 inches
4Runner Dimensions:
- Headroom (front/second/third): 39.3 inches/38.6 inches/34.3 inches
- Legroom (front/second/third): 41.7 inches/32.9 inches/29.3 inches
- Shoulder Room (front/second/third): 57.8 inches/57.8 inches/57.7 inches
- Hip Room (front/second/third): 56.5 inches/55.7 inches/43.3 inches
Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4Runner: Technology and Safety
While the space available in these two SUVs lays the groundwork for supreme comfort and confidence behind the wheel, it is the technology features that take your driving experience over the top. In terms of safety, you’ll find both SUVs feature similar Toyota Safety Sense™ systems.
|
Highlander TSS 2.5+ |
vs. |
4Runner TSS-P |
|
Standard |
Pre-Collision System w/ Pedestrian Detection |
Standard |
|
Standard |
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control |
Standard |
|
Standard |
Lane Departure Alert |
Standard |
The Highlander and 4Runner also both provide impressive multimedia capabilities. In this area, you’ll find very similar features, including:
- Apple CarPlay®
- Android Auto™
- Amazon Alexa
- 8-inch touchscreen
Using these features, you’ll be able to seamlessly connect your mobile device with your SUV on the go!
Toyota Highlander vs 4Runner: Two Great SUV Options!
After reviewing this Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner comparison, it should be clear that these two SUVs offer very comparable performances. The truth is, both are great options for drivers near Hyannis, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, Massachusetts. Contact us to get behind the wheel of both and see which one you prefer at Ira Toyota of Hyannis today!
1 EPA-estimated 16 city/19 hwy/17 combined mpg for 2021 4Runner. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
2 EPA-estimated 21 city/29 hwy/24 combined mpg for 2021 Highlander; 20 city/27 hwy/23 combined for 2021 Highlander AWD; 36 city/35 hwy/36 combined mpg for 2021 Highlander Hybrid. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.