The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is a highly anticipated SUV that comes with more off-road equipment and up to 326 horsepower from a new hybrid powertrain. However, it faces stiff competition from within the brand, particularly from the redesigned Toyota Land Cruiser. Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two models to see how they stack up against each other:
Both the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser come equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that delivers 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. They also have the same towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and share an 8-speed automatic transmission. When it comes to power and performance, these two SUVs are very evenly matched.
While the powertrains are identical, there are differences in the design and dimensions of the 4Runner and the Land Cruiser. The Land Cruiser is nearly six inches taller than the 4Runner, giving it a more imposing presence on the road. The 4Runner, on the other hand, has a lighter and more agile design, making it ideal for off-road adventures. The two vehicles have similar wheelbase, overall length, width, and ground clearance, but their overall height sets them apart.
According to Keita Moritsu, chief engineer for both the Land Cruiser and the 4Runner, each vehicle has a different mission and role to fulfill. The Land Cruiser is designed to support life, transport people and goods safely, and provide peace of mind to its occupants. On the other hand, the 4Runner is all about fun and excitement, offering a leisurely off-road experience for its adventurous customers.
Since the Toyota Land Cruiser has been redesigned to be more budget-friendly, with a starting price of $57,445, it now competes more closely with the 4Runner in terms of affordability. The 2025 4Runner’s pricing has not been announced yet, but it is expected to be within a few thousand dollars of the outgoing model, which started at $41,600 including destination. However, if you opt for all the optional hybrid systems and 4WD equipment on the 4Runner, the price might approach that of the Land Cruiser.
Despite the competition between the 4Runner and the Land Cruiser, Keita Moritsu believes that the 4Runner’s design, with its powerful silhouette and outstanding off-road performance, will appeal to a wide range of customers for years to come. By combining a blend of active design elements and heritage-inspired features, the 4Runner is poised to provide an enjoyable driving experience for the next 15 years.
In conclusion, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser are two capable and exciting SUVs that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Land Cruiser offers safety and reliability, the 4Runner provides a sense of adventure and fun for its drivers. As the competition heats up within the Toyota brand, customers have more options to choose from, each offering a unique driving experience that suits their individual preferences.