Toyota is a Japanese automotive manufacturer that specializes in the production of a range of vehicles that include pick-ups, Hatchbacks, SUVs, and sedans that have been around for many decades.
Toyota is a legendary brand around the world for manufacturing durable, reliable, and powerful cars. The 4runner and Highlander are both SUVs that may seem similar but in reality differ in other features like engine, performance, exterior, and interior.
Toyota is so famous for its diversity of functional and everyday cars. Both 4runner and Highlander are larger than life and good for an adventure; you might be interested in the Toyota Highlander or the 4runner.
Here we compare the Toyota 4runner vs Toyota Highlander to learn how these two cars from Toyota fair against each other. Keep reading to the end to learn the ins and out of these two great SUVs.
N.B: Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD prices as of August 2022.
Toyota 4runner Toyota Highlander
Capacity/Doors 5 doors / 5 seater 5 doors / 8 seater
Torque 376 Nm – 382 Nm 239 Nm
Top Speed 180 kph 189 kph
0-100 km/h 8.2 sec 6.7 sec – 8.4 sec
Max Power 157 hp – 270 hp 155 hp - 295 hp
Engine 2.0L – 4.7L 2.0L – 3.5L
Fuel Tank Capacity 55L – 91L 68L
Key Features Crawl Control, Kinetic, Dynamic
Suspension System (KDSS),
Multi-Terrain.Toyota Safety SenseTM
2.5+(TSS 2.5+) – Pre-Collision
System with Low-Light,
Pedestrian Detection, Lane
Departure Alert, Steering Assist,
Full-Speed Range, Dynamic
Radar Cruise Control, Lane
Tracing Assist, etc. Blind Spot
Monitoring with Rear-Cross
Traffic Alert.
Fuel Consumption 6.8 km/l – 8.0 km/l 8.93 km/l – 12.33 km/l
Length x Width x Height 4.83×1.92×1.82 m 4.88×1.92×1.78 m
BE FORWARD PRICE USD 6,680 - 35,700 USD 5,540 – 29,710
Interior & Exterior Comparison
Toyota 4runner
The Toyota 4runner is an SUV and a five-door body style with 5 passengers seating capacity. The Toyota 4runner provides both part-time and full-time 4WD (four-wheel drive) systems.
(a) Cabin Storage
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The Toyota 4runner has many storage facilities used for keeping beverages, bottles, smartphones, coins, and handbags. In the front row, there is a glove box, two cup holders in the control panel, a center box, and door panel storage. In the rear row, there are two cup holders in the armrest when it flips down, door panel storage, and a storage compartment with 1 USB port.
The interior has some modern technology and features like a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, HD Radio, a rearview camera, satellite radio, 8 speakers, and navigation.
(b) Cargo Space
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With a height of 71.5 inches, a width of 75.8 inches, and an overall length of 191.3 inches, the Toyota 4runner has large boot space. Therefore the 4runner has a practically large boot.
Exterior
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On every trim level, the 4runner features its own distinctive look. On the exterior, the TRD Off-Road trim stands out from the rest with exceptional features including 17-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels with black-painted inserts and TRD badging. The standard Limited trim comes with a stylish front grille, 20-inch split 6-spoke alloy wheels, chrome door handles, and an exclusive front fascia. While offering you superior visibility, the 4runner complements the rugged design, with LED headlights and LED taillights adding a touch of style. The front suspension/engine and transfer case are protected by skid plates from damage when traveling across rough terrain on all 4X4 models.
Toyota Highlander
The Highlander, aka the Toyota Kluger, was introduced by Toyota in 2000 as a mid-size crossover SUV with 3-row seating. Before being exceeded by the smaller RAV4 in 2006 the Highlander is Toyota‘s best-selling SUV.
(a) Cabin Storage
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The cabin is well designed, its modern and roomy. You will find numerous storage booths that can store coins, documents, beverages, etc. inside the Highlander.
(b) Cargo Space
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In the front row, you will find the glove box, a center box, door panel storage, and two cup holders. In the second row, you will find the front seat pocket, two cup holders, door panel storage, and the third row has bottle holders and pockets on both sides of the rear wheel arches.
Exterior
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With proper headlights attached well with a front grille and bumper, the exterior appearance tries to look like the latest Toyota RAV4 that’s aggressive-looking. The headlights are well designed and placed. For all variants the fog lights are standard.
Engine, Performance & Fuel Consumption
Toyota 4runner
(a) Engine & Performance
The latest generation 4runner which is the 5th generation comes fitted with 2 engine options: a 2TR-FE I4 2.7L petrol engine which generates a maximum power output of 157 hp and a 1GR-FE V6 4.0L which produces a maximum power output of 270 hp. These engines are supported by a gearbox of a 5-speed automatic for a V6 engine or a 4-speed automatic for inline-four for the 2010 model only.
(b) Fuel Consumption
The 4runner’s fuel consumption rated 6.8 Km/L to 8.0 Km/L.
Toyota Highlander
(a) Engine & Performance
The Toyota Highlander’s latest generation comes fitted with different engine options such as a for 2022–present models T24A-FTS turbo 2.4L I4 gasoline engine, 2GR-FKS V6 3.5L for 2020–2022 models, for the hybrid version A25A-FXS 2.5L I4, and hybrid, China version A25B-FXS 2.5L I4.
The hybrid models are attached to an electric motor 2x Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors 5NM + that produces an additional 54 hp.
These engines are powered by 8-speed UA80F “Direct Shift” ECTi automatic or eCVT with sequential shift mode for the hybrid version.
(b) Fuel Consumption
Toyota Highlander fuel consumption claims to be 8.93 km/l – 12.33 km/l.
Final Verdict
Toyota is known by their prowess in building reliable and comfortable SUVs with enough power, and exciting interiors which can be witnessed on the 4runner and Toyota Highlander.
The Highlander and 4runner are car models that are uncountable in almost every detail. Both have luxury, comfortability, and good performance but the latest Highlander model seems to have a more premium interior and comfortability.
The Highlander seems to have a better fuel economy. The 4runner and the Highlander are extremely reliable and capable. Out of the two, the Highlander is family-friendly but the Toyota 4runner is more practical. You can have a wider choice to buy one of these two giant SUVs on BE FORWARD.
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I am a car enthusiast and experienced freelance car writer with over 5 years in automotive journalism. Recognized for delivering engaging and informative content across diverse websites and blogs, prominently featured on platforms like BE FORWARD. A passion for cars, coupled with a proven track record of insightful articles, showcasing a deep understanding of the industry.
With over 5 years of writing expertise in the automotive domain, I specialize in comprehensive coverage of car-related topics. My portfolio spans engaging reviews, up-to-date news, and in-depth features, showcasing a versatile understanding of the automotive landscape. This experience reflects my commitment to delivering insightful content that captivates readers across a broad spectrum of car enthusiasts and general audiences.
My favorite car is the Range Rover Sport for its luxurious design, powerful performance, and unparalleled comfort on and off-road.
