When you're looking for a highly capable SUV that's also great for your family's needs, a Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4Runner are sure to be two top choices. Both offering three rows of seats and powerful performances, along with advanced tech and safety features, the Highlander and 4Runner offer a reliable and comfortable ride for all your traveling needs. So, which Toyota SUV should you buy? Compare the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner so that you can decide between these two Toyota models today.

In this Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner comparison, you can see what makes these two SUVs similar as well as what makes each Toyota model stand out. Compare Highlander vs. 4Runner interior dimensions, horsepower, features, and more, here!

2023 Toyota Highlander vs. 2023 4Runner Dimensions

Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner Engines & Performance

Whether it's taking an off-road adventure or packing up your belongings and going on a road trip with your family, the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner both have dependable and strong performances. Check out the differences between the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner performances below.

Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner Engines

Equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Toyota Highlander has an impressive 265 horsepower that it offers, along with 310 pound-feet of torque. Under the hood of the Toyota 4Runner, you get a 270-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine that can deliver 278 pound-feet of torque.

See a breakdown of performance specs for both the 2023 Highlander and 2023 4Runner here, where you can compare horsepower, torque, and towing capacity.

2023 Toyota Highlander:

• Max Horsepower: 265hp
• Max Torque: 310lb-ft
• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000lbs

2023 Toyota 4Runner:

• Max Horsepower: 270hp
• Max Torque: 278lb-ft
• Max Towing Capacity: 5,000lbs

Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner Trim Options

Both the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner give you plenty of options for trim levels, where you can select from a variety of exterior and interior color options, along with different materials, like leather-trimmed seats. The Highlander has 6 trims to choose from for gas models. However, if you look at the Highlander Hybrid, you will find an additional 5 trims offered. For the 4Runner, there are 8 trims available.

Highlander Trims

• Highlander L
• Highlander LE
• Highlander XLE
• Highlander XSE
• Highlander Limited
• Highlander Platinum

4Runner Trims

• 4Runner SR5
• 4Runner TRD Sport
• 4Runner SR5 Premium
• 4Runner TRD Off-Road
• 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium
• 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition
• 4Runner Limited
• 4Runner TRD Pro

Compare the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner Features

When exploring features of the Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner, you will find that both share some of the same standard features such as: LED headlights and taillights, backup camera, 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Star Safety System™, along with eight airbags.

There are many features that make each model unique, however. The Highlander has Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ standard and three-zone automatic climate control, as well as an available 12.3-in. MultiInformation Display. On the 4Runner, you will find the Toyota Safety Sense™ P system, and distinct off-roading features available, like: Multi-Terrain Monitor, Electronic Locking Rear Differential, Crawl Control, and a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

Check Out the Toyota Highlander and Toyota 4Runner at DARCARS Toyota of Frederick

After you compare the Highlander vs. 4Runner, you see that you can't go wrong with either the Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4Runner, but one may be more aligned with your everyday driving needs. If you're interested in an SUV that can tackle off-road terrain with ease, as well as offers a lot of cargo space, go for a new Toyota 4Runner. If you want to see premium comfort in the interior of your SUV, along with plenty of advanced tech, a new Toyota Highlander may interest you more. Whichever new Toyota you want to buy or lease, you can check out our Toyota dealership today to find a new Toyota Highlander and 4Runner for sale in Frederick, MD.

Frequently Asked Questions