When you compare the Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner, you'll discover several key differences, including the Highlander's standard three-row seating and more fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, which stands in contrast to the 4Runner and its standard two-row interior, larger V-6 engine, and more capable all-terrain performance.
If you dream of driving a new Toyota SUV with powerful performance, advanced tech, and a spacious interior, consider our comparison of the Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner.
SUV Showdown: Toyota 4Runner vs. Highlander
McGee Toyota of Hanover has compiled a thorough review of the Toyota 4Runner vs. Highlander models to help SUV shoppers determine which of these Toyota models is better suited to their preferences.
We're comparing the 2024 Toyota Highlander vs. 2024 Toyota 4Runner in various editions, including the base models of each SUV, noting the differences in dimensions, specs, capabilities, and features.
Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner Specs
As you shop and compare the Toyota 4Runner vs. Highlander SUVs, you'll discover that these models offer similar power output and general specs but their performance and capabilities are targeted toward slightly different buyers.
The Toyota Highlander is powered by an advanced, turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 265 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed to the front wheels in the Highlander crossover SUV's base configuration, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is available.
Its 2.4-liter turbo engine is coupled to a Direct-Shift eight-speed automatic transmission. With its standard FWD layout, this fuel-efficient powertrain enables the 2024 Highlander to reach an EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined):1 an impressive feat for an eight-passenger SUV.
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is a classically styled and engineered midsize SUV featuring standard V-6 performance and authentic off-road SUV credentials. Its larger, 4.0-liter engine develops slightly more power, at 270 horsepower, plus 278 pound-feet of torque. So, its V-6 engine specs are similar to the Highlander model's smaller turbo engine.
Comparing the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner towing capacity, we find that both of these SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. In fact, whether you opt for a two-wheel-drive base model or a fully loaded version with power to all four wheels, these two Toyota SUVs maintain the same peak tow rating.
In contrast to the Toyota Highlander SUV's FWD or AWD layout, the 4Runner is built on a rear-wheel-drive platform. It starts with two-wheel drive, but part-time or full-time four-wheel drive is available.
Whether you select a 2WD or 4WD Toyota 4Runner, this all-terrain SUV is equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission. With its larger V-6 engine and fewer forward gears, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner manages up to an EPA-estimated 16/19/17 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 rating, falling significantly short of the high-efficiency Highlander.
However, the rugged Toyota 4Runner SUV offers off-road performance capabilities the Highlander crossover simply can't match. It helps that the 4Runner starts with nine inches of ground clearance and offers up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance in certain trims. The Highlander sits a little lower, with eight inches of ground clearance.
|
2024 Toyota Highlander LE |
2024 Toyota 4Runner SR5 |
| Engine |
2.4L I-4 Turbo |
4.0L V-6 |
| Horsepower |
265 |
270 |
| Torque |
310 lb-ft |
278 lb-ft |
| Transmission |
8-speed automatic |
5-speed automatic |
| Drive Type |
FWD or AWD |
RWD or 4WD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty/Hwy/Cmb) |
22/29/251 |
16/19/171 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity |
17.9 gal |
23 gal |
| Towing Capacity |
5,000 lbs2 |
5,000 lbs2 |
Comparing Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner Size & Seating Capacity
The size and seating capacity of the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner differ substantially. So, selecting your ideal new Toyota SUV may also come down to your needs and preferences around their cabin size and passenger capacity.
The 2024 Toyota Highlander SUV's exterior dimensions are larger than the 2024 Toyota 4Runner, as the Highlander is longer, wider, and rides on a longer wheelbase. Its larger dimensions help accommodate standard three-row seating, with space for up to eight passengers. There's also a seven-passenger seating configuration for those who prefer second-row captain's chairs instead of bench seating.
The Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV features a classic two-row, five-passenger layout across its trim levels. However, while this Toyota SUV is typically imagined only as a five-passenger model, it does offer an optional third row as part of the seven-passenger seating package.
|
2024 Toyota Highlander LE |
2024 Toyota 4Runner SR5 |
| Length |
194.9 in |
190.2 in |
| Width |
76 in |
75.8 in |
| Height |
68.1 in |
71.5 in |
| Wheelbase |
112.2 in |
109.8 in |
| Ground Clearance |
8 in |
9 in |
| Seating Capacity |
8 |
5 or 7 |
| Standard Cargo Space |
16 cu ft |
47.2 cu ft |
| Max Cargo Capacity |
84.3 cu ft |
89.7 cu ft |
Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner Interior Space & Cargo Capacity
Classic two-row models of the 2024 Toyota 4Runner feature 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 89.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.
If you opt for a 4Runner SUV with the optional third row, you'll get a 9-cubic-feet cargo area behind the seats. Fold the third row for 46.3 cubic feet or the two rows behind the front seats for up to 88.8 cubic feet for cargo in the seven-passenger version.
The Highlander SUV's 16 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind its third row tops the 4Runner three-row model. However, with the second and third rows lowered, the 4Runner model's 89.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume beats the Highlander and its 84.3 cubic feet.
Find Your Preferred New Toyota SUV at McGee Toyota of Hanover
Given the size, specs, and capabilities of the Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner, which of these Toyota SUVs do you prefer? No matter which model you love more, McGee Toyota of Hanover provides access to the latest Toyota vehicles in various trim levels, packages, and configurations.
We encourage you to shop our Toyota inventory, see our new vehicle specials, and contact our sales specialists to discuss your ideal new SUV in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toyota Highlander bigger than the 4Runner?
The Toyota Highlander is bigger than the 4Runner. The new Highlander SUV is longer and wider, at 194.9 inches long and 76 inches wide, compared to the 4Runner at 190.2 inches long and 75.8 inches wide. However, the 4Runner is taller, at 71.5 inches in height, compared to the Highlander SUV's height of 68.1 inches. Compare their sizes at your Toyota dealer.
Is a Highlander as reliable as a 4Runner?
A Toyota Highlander is considered as reliable as a Toyota 4Runner. Both of these Toyota SUVs for sale have a sterling record of reliability over the years, so you can count on either model to deliver dependable daily transportation, provided you treat them to proper routine maintenance. Enjoy reliable performance and affordable cost of ownership with the Highlander or 4Runner.
Why is the Toyota Highlander so popular?
The Toyota Highlander is so popular because it meets the needs of many large and growing families through its spacious three-row interior, advanced cabin technologies, and fuel-efficient performance. In short, the Highlander midsize crossover SUV is the ideal family vehicle, as it offers comfortable seating for up to eight, a large cargo hold, and robust performance you can count on.
Is a Grand Highlander bigger than a 4Runner?
Yes, a Toyota Grand Highlander is bigger than a 4Runner. The Grand Highlander is a larger version of the popular three-row Highlander, which is already larger than the 4Runner. With its longer body and wheelbase, the Grand Highlander is larger than both the Highlander and the 4Runner and provides more passenger volume and cargo space than the other Toyota SUVs.
