Toyota recently unveiled the revamped Land Cruiser and the all-new 4Runner, both sharing the robust TNGA-F platform with other Toyota trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra. This platform similarity has led some to question if the 4Runner and Land Cruiser are now too alike, potentially causing overlap in Toyota’s SUV lineup. After getting behind the wheel of both, we delve into a detailed comparison, focusing on their specs and intended purposes to help you decide which Toyota SUV best fits your needs.
Toyota positions the 4Runner as a North America-centric model, emphasizing sporty driving dynamics and styling tailored to American tastes. In contrast, the Land Cruiser is marketed as a global vehicle, drawing upon its rich heritage and catering to a broader, more premium-oriented market. This distinction in target audience is crucial in understanding their design and performance differences.
Aggressive styling of the Toyota 4Runner, designed for North American market appeal.
Toyota 4Runner: A Versatile Lineup
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner distinguishes itself with an extensive range of nine trim levels, offering a variety of choices from the base SR5 to the top-tier Trailhunter and TRD Pro. This wide selection allows buyers to pinpoint a 4Runner that aligns with their specific needs and budget, starting from approximately $42,220 and reaching up to $68,350.
- SR5 (Starting at $42,220 for 4×2)
- TRD Sport (Starting at $48,700 for 4×2)
- TRD Sport Premium (Starting at $54,060 for 4×2)
- TRD Off-Road 4×4 (Starting at $50,640)
- TRD Off-Road Premium 4×4 (Starting at $56,420)
- Limited (Starting at $56,850 for 4×2)
- Platinum 4×4 (Starting at $64,310)
- TRD Pro 4×4 (Starting at $68,350)
- Trailhunter 4×4 (Starting at $68,350)
The higher trims, including Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter, exclusively feature the potent 2.4-liter hybrid “i-Force Max” powertrain, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid engine, also found in the Tacoma and Land Cruiser, provides a significant boost in performance.
Conversely, the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, and Limited trims come standard with the 2.4-liter “i-Force” engine, producing 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. For those desiring hybrid power in the Limited, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Off-Road Premium models, it’s available as an optional upgrade for an additional $2,800.
Third-row seating is offered exclusively on the SR5 and non-hybrid Limited trims for an extra $600. The hybrid battery placement in the rear cargo area restricts the third-row option in hybrid models.
Platform and Suspension: Shared DNA, Different Tuning
Both the 4Runner and Land Cruiser are built upon the TNGA-F platform, sharing fundamental underpinnings with other Toyota trucks. This common architecture extends to the suspension design, featuring a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a coil-sprung solid rear axle.
While the fundamental suspension design is consistent, variations exist in control arms and link geometry, often depending on the specific trim level. However, the crucial suspension mounting points to the frame remain consistent across models utilizing the TNGA-F platform.
Dimensionally, the 4Runner and Land Cruiser are closely matched. The Land Cruiser measures 194 inches in length, 84.2 inches in width, and 73.2 inches in height. The 4Runner is approximately an inch longer and maintains a similar width. Height is comparable between the Land Cruiser and specific 4Runner trims like Limited, TRD Sport, and Platinum. Ground clearance also aligns between the Land Cruiser and these 4Runner trims.
Both SUVs share a 6,000-pound towing capacity and achieve a combined fuel economy of 23 MPG for hybrid models. Non-hybrid 4Runner versions slightly decrease in combined MPG.
On-Road and Off-Road Performance: Driving Dynamics Compared
Driving the 4Runner TRD Pro on city streets and highways reveals an interior layout mirroring the Toyota Tacoma, featuring a prominent 14-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster in higher trims. The interior design is robust and functional, with durable materials suited for off-road use.
While not designed for sharp handling, the 4Runner TRD Pro provides a decent ride quality, as expected for a large SUV equipped with 33-inch tires. The hood scoop on the TRD Pro, while visually aggressive, is non-functional and can exhibit some vibration at higher speeds, similar to the Tacoma.
The piano black plastic accents on the TRD Pro’s exterior, while stylish, are prone to swirl marks and may not be ideal for off-road environments.
The Base 4Runner SR5: Surprisingly Agile
The base 4Runner SR5, in a two-wheel-drive configuration, offers a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience. Weighing approximately 1,000 pounds less than the TRD Pro, the SR5 feels more nimble and responsive on the road. The 278-horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged engine provides ample power, making it feel as quick, if not quicker, than the more powerful TRD Pro in everyday driving.
The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine is functional and adequately powered, paired with a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission.
The SR5 features an eight-inch touchscreen, which some may find more integrated and less imposing than the larger 14-inch screen in higher trims. The cloth seats in the SR5 are comfortable and visually appealing.
Third-Row Seating Access and Space
The optional third-row seating in the 4Runner provides jump seats suitable for children or short trips. Access to the third row involves maneuvering past the second row, which can be slightly challenging due to the wheel arch.
Operating the third-row seats involves using handles and straps to release and raise the seatbacks and cushions.
Legroom in the third row is limited, and headroom can be restrictive for adults. The third row is best suited for children and shorter trips.
4Runner Trailhunter: Off-Road Prowess
The 4Runner Trailhunter, positioned as the overlanding-focused trim, boasts significant off-road upgrades. These include underbody protection, a sway bar disconnect for enhanced front axle articulation, 33-inch all-terrain tires, a rear locker, and a snorkel. The interior is also well-equipped.
Off-road trails proved to be easily manageable for the Trailhunter. While the independent front suspension limits extreme front axle articulation even with the sway bar disconnect, the coil-sprung rear axle flexes effectively. The front-facing camera enhances visibility during technical off-road maneuvers.
Despite its 10.1 inches of ground clearance, rear locker, and disconnecting front sway bar, the Trailhunter’s breakover and departure angles are decent but not class-leading compared to more specialized off-road vehicles like the Ford Bronco or Jeep Wrangler.
4Runner TRD Pro: High-Speed Off-Road Fun
The TRD Pro trim is geared towards higher-speed off-road driving. It features “3-way adjustable Fox 2.5-in internal bypass Q3S shocks with rear piggy-back remote reservoirs,” providing excellent suspension damping over rough terrain.
Toyota demonstrated the TRD Pro’s capabilities by performing jumps, showcasing its robust suspension and chassis.
However, similar to the Trailhunter, the TRD Pro also features piano black exterior cladding and the non-functional, vibrating hood scoop.
The underbody protection on the TRD Pro is less extensive compared to the Trailhunter.
TRD Off-Road: The Sweet Spot
The TRD Off-Road trim emerges as the “Goldilocks” option in the 4Runner lineup, balancing off-road capability with value.
Starting at $50,640, the TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium ($56,420) offer significant value compared to competitors like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, while maintaining Toyota’s reputation for reliability and refinement.
The TRD Off-Road provides ample off-road capability for most enthusiasts, featuring good forward visibility, especially with the optional front camera, and 9.1 inches of ground clearance. The matte-black fender flares are functional and understated.
While the TRD Off-Road lacks a sway bar disconnect and has basic underbody protection, these can be addressed in the aftermarket.
The base-model, non-hybrid TRD Off-Road, priced at $50,640, is considered the sweet spot, offering essential off-road features without unnecessary frills.
This model includes cloth seats, a rear locker, 33-inch tires, basic underbody protection, a gasoline 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, and a low-range transfer case—everything needed for capable off-roading without excessive cost.
Weighing 4,850 pounds, the base TRD Off-Road is lighter than the Trailhunter or TRD Pro, contributing to better performance with the non-hybrid engine. Skipping the hybrid powertrain in this trim offers weight savings, increased cargo space, and potentially long-term cost savings despite slightly reduced fuel economy.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road vs Toyota Land Cruiser: Head-to-Head
Comparing the 4Runner TRD Off-Road to the base Land Cruiser “1958” reveals key differences and overlaps. The 4Runner TRD Off-Road starts at $50,640, nearly $7,000 less than the base Land Cruiser at $57,400.
The base Land Cruiser includes a larger infotainment screen, a hybrid powertrain, and a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a locking Torsen center differential. The 4Runner TRD Off-Road features a smaller screen, a part-time four-wheel-drive system, and a non-hybrid powertrain.
However, the interior quality of the base Land Cruiser “1958” is not significantly superior to the 4Runner, with hard plastics still present in both. The hybrid powertrain in the Land Cruiser may not justify the price increase for all buyers, especially considering the reduced cargo volume compared to non-hybrid 4Runner models.
Interior styling of the base Land Cruiser “1958” presents a slightly more elegant design compared to the 4Runner TRD Off-Road.
Exterior styling also leans slightly in favor of the Land Cruiser, with a more squared-off roofline and a less “squished” front end compared to the 4Runner.
Off-road capability is remarkably similar between the two SUVs. Both feature a rear locker and basic skid plates. The Land Cruiser has a locking center differential, while the 4Runner, with its part-time 4WD, effectively locks the front and rear driveshafts when in four-wheel drive.
Tire sizes differ slightly, with the Land Cruiser using 245/70R18 tires and the 4Runner TRD Off-Road equipped with slightly larger 265/70R18 all-terrain tires, contributing to the 4Runner’s slightly higher ground clearance (9.1 inches vs 8.7 inches for the Land Cruiser).
However, off-road geometry reveals differences. The Land Cruiser boasts a 30-degree approach angle, 22-degree departure angle, and 25-degree breakover angle. The 4Runner TRD Off-Road has a 19-degree approach angle, 24-degree departure angle, and 24-degree breakover angle. The significantly better approach angle of the Land Cruiser is somewhat offset by its lower departure angle. There is some question about the accuracy of Toyota’s published approach angle for the 4Runner TRD Off-Road, as it may be underestimated.
The SR5 trim of the 4Runner, with its chin spoiler, has an even lower approach angle of 18 degrees. Removing the chin spoiler and considering the larger tires on the TRD Off-Road could potentially improve its approach angle significantly.
Cargo volume is another key differentiator. Non-hybrid 4Runner models offer significantly more cargo space (90.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded) compared to both the hybrid 4Runner and the hybrid-only Land Cruiser (around 82 cubic feet).
On-road driving dynamics are similar, with both SUVs prioritizing comfort over sporty handling. The Land Cruiser might offer a slightly softer ride, but both exhibit body roll and brake dive typical of body-on-frame SUVs.
Verdict: Choosing Between the 4Runner and Land Cruiser
While the similarities between the new Land Cruiser and 4Runner might initially raise eyebrows, Toyota has effectively created two distinct yet capable mid-size SUVs. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in both models is adequate, and the eight-speed automatic transmission performs well. Both SUVs represent worthy successors to their predecessors, offering modern features while retaining core Toyota attributes.
The Land Cruiser can be seen as a more premium, slightly more luxurious alternative positioned within the 4Runner lineup. It’s not as hardcore off-road as the 4Runner TRD Pro or Trailhunter but is more capable than the base SR5 or Limited trims. It closely matches the 4Runner TRD Off-Road in off-road ability but comes standard with a hybrid powertrain (sacrificing some cargo space) and a more upscale interior and exterior design.
Choosing the Right Toyota SUV:
- Toyota 4Runner SR5: Best for budget-conscious buyers needing basic SUV functionality, potentially with third-row seating.
- Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road: Ideal for off-road enthusiasts seeking excellent capability without top-tier pricing.
- Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter or TRD Pro: For serious off-roaders prioritizing maximum capability and features, regardless of cost.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: Suited for buyers wanting a blend of off-road capability, premium features, and a more refined image. For even greater luxury, consider the Lexus GX.
- Base Land Cruiser “1958”: A strong option for those prioritizing rugged looks and decent off-road ability at a slightly lower price point than the higher Land Cruiser trims.
Ultimately, for those prioritizing interior volume and value, the non-hybrid 4Runner TRD Off-Road is a compelling choice. However, if a more premium interior and distinctive styling are desired, the Land Cruiser, particularly non-base models, offers a compelling upgrade within the Toyota SUV family. Consider your priorities – practicality, off-road focus, luxury, or budget – to determine whether the Toyota 4Runner or Land Cruiser best suits your needs.
