If you’re looking for a versatile SUV, the Toyota 4Runner is the best choice. This four-door vehicle is designed to handle a wide variety of terrain and is built with advanced technology that gives you the best off-road capability. The Toyota 4Runner can tow up to 5,000 pounds. However, its fuel economy isn’t the most impressive. For a two-door model, it gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 19 on the highway. It can also be fitted with a part-time 4WD system to maximize the power of the engine.
One thing that makes the Toyota 4Runner stand out is the 4.0 liter V-6 that produces 270 horsepower. Though this engine isn’t as powerful as the Jeep Wrangler’s 2.0-liter Direct Injection Turbo, it produces more torque.
In addition, the Toyota 4Runner offers an automatic torque distribution system that allows the engine to adjust throttle automatically. A locking rear differential is also available on select models. With this technology, the engine will automatically distribute its torque between the front and rear wheels to help you climb and descend hills.
As for safety features, the Toyota 4Runner offers a forward collision warning, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. You can also opt for a blind-spot monitor and a rearview camera. Some models offer active safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and steering assist. There are also standard features such as a driver knee airbag. Other features include traffic-adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and a 360-degree camera system.
In terms of space, the Jeep Wrangler is smaller. But, it also has a higher seating capacity. And the two-door model can tow up to 2,000 pounds. That’s more than the Toyota 4Runner’s 5,000-pound rating.
However, the Toyota 4Runner’s fuel economy is not as good as the Jeep’s. Two-door models have an EPA rating of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Three-doors get a bit better numbers at 14 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. Both vehicles are powered by a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
On the plus side, the Toyota 4Runner’s interior is a lot more quiet than the Jeep’s. Plus, it offers more leg room for its occupants. Also, the Toyota is easier to maneuver on the road and has a smoother ride.
On the other hand, the Toyota 4Runner doesn’t have many of the high-tech features that the Jeep Wrangler offers. It also has a much higher base price. Furthermore, the Toyota comes with a two-year, no-cost scheduled maintenance program. Although the Toyota can last for more than 250,000 miles, the Jeep Wrangler is limited in its reliability.
While both vehicles are capable of handling tough terrain, the Toyota stands out as the better overall option. It’s also a safer and more reliable vehicle. It’s got a high level of safety features and active technology that isn’t available in the Jeep.
The Toyota 4Runner is the best all-around off-road vehicle. However, the Jeep Wrangler has its place, particularly in the off-road community.
