Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV is Right for Your Family?

Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV is Right for Your Family?

Posted on December 1, 2023

The Tоyota 4Runner and Highlander are both popular SUVs in Toyota's lineup. Each caters to different preferences and needs. Explore the key differences in the Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander comparison. 

Notable Changes From the Previous Year

The latest 4Runner and Highlander models come with two new exterior colours. The 4Runner's TRD Pro model offers the bold red-clay Terra. 

The new Highlander lineup sees the removal of the base L trim and Bronze editions of the Hybrid XLE and Hybrid. In their place, the LE Nightshade and XLE Nightshade trims are introduced for the hybrid model.

Infotainment and Technology Features

The Toyota Highlander features cutting-edge tech. This includes a standard 12.3-inch Toyota Multimedia system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SUV also offers Connected Services such as Remote and Safety Connect.

4Runners include an 8.0-inch touchscreen, steering-wheel controls, and Bluetooth connectivity. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, users can access phone functions, music, and navigation.

Exterior Design

The 4Runner is designed for off-road excursions. It boasts a rugged body-on-frame construction and a robust exterior. It incorporates alloy wheels, roof rails, running boards, LED headlights, and fog lamps. 

When looking at Highlander’s design, you see nothing short of excitement. The thoughtful design enhances the visual appeal and contributes to the Highlander's overall aesthetic charm. 

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

The 4Runner interior prioritizes comfort and flexibility. Heated front seats and SofTex seating are available. The expansive cargo space of 1,337 litres makes the 4Runner's interior comfortable and versatile.

The Highlander's interior emphasizes comfort and adaptability. You can find a spacious third row, a panoramic moonroof for an open feel, and optional second-row captain seats. The Highlander provides a cargo capacity of 453 litres. 

Performance Features

When reviewing the 4Runner’s engine options, we see that Toyota offers this model with only one engine, the 4.0-litre V6. This pоwertrain provides 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of tоrque.

The Highlander offers a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, producing 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. 

Both vehicles offer a tоwing capacity of 5,000 pounds. The Highlander exceeds fuel economy, beating the 4Runner with 11.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.6 L/100 km on the highway. While the 4Runner’s high fuel economy is 14.8 L/100 km in the city and 12.5 L/100 km on the highway.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

The Highlander comes equipped with advanced safety features. This includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection.

A complete package of cutting-edge active-safety systems is included in the 4Runner. Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) P is intended to improve awareness and handle a variety of road circumstances and emergencies with ease.

Reserve Your Choice! 

Reserve your choice today! Go to the Toyota West Edmonton Mall dealership for more details on the Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander comparison. Don't miss out on the opportunity to reserve the SUV that fits your journey. Explore the safety, performance and technology features of both models today!