Toyota Highlander vs 4Runner
Toyota Highlander vs 4Runner
Fort Dodge, IA
SUVs are incredibly popular in the United States, with Americans of all stripes purchasing them as quickly as they come onto the market. Because of this, most car manufacturers have multiple SUVs in their lineups.
Toyota is no different. This article is going to look at 2 of Toyota's SUV offerings, the Toyota Highlander and the 4Runner, both of which are sizable vehicles. That said, the two cars and uniquely suited to different roles. The Highlander is a comfortable three-row SUV that can seat as many as eight people. The 4Runner has an optional third row, and is optimized for off-roading. With this in mind, this post is going to go in-depth on these vehicles to help Fort Dodge, IA residents figure out which vehicle is right for them and their loved ones.
What's under the hood?
The Toyota Highlander enjoys a pair of different engine options. The standard one is a 3.5L V6 that makes 295 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission and either front- or all-wheel drive round out the powertrain.
The second option is an environmentally conscious hybrid! This is very rare for vehicles of this size. Toyota pairs a 2.5L four-cylinder with two electric motors; this team outputs 243 horsepower overall. It enjoys continuous variable transmission, front- or all-wheel drive, and great fuel economy. The hybrid gets an EPA estimated 36 miles per gallon in the city, and 35 on the highway.
The 4Runner, like the Highlander, comes standard with a V6. Unlike the other SUV, however, it does not have another engine option. The 4.0L V6 gets 270 horsepower and works with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner comes with rear-wheel drive which is paired with four-wheel-drive systems that vary by trim.
Both of these vehicles, when properly outfitted, can tow up to 5,000 pounds! If you're thinking of taking the family on a trip, perhaps along the Des Moines river, then both of these vehicles are up to the task of bringing a trailer or pop-up camper along for the ride.
What makes each SUV special?
The Toyota Highlander is designed to ferry families and other large groups around in style and comfort. This comfortable three-row SUV fits eight, with a pair of captain's chairs available for the second row on higher trims. It's easy for Webster County, IA residents to keep their passengers entertained in a Highlander because it enjoys a full suite of connectivity features. Toyota has integrated Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM radio, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot into the vehicle. An 8" touchscreen controls these features on the base model and lower-tier trims, while the Limited and Platinum models enjoy a 12.3" screen.
The 4Runner, as noted in the introduction, is optimized for off-road adventures. The SUVs high clearance pairs with a body-on-frame construction to provide a refined and fun experience when Iowans take it off the beaten path. The 4Runner is also designed to haul cargo efficiently, with lots of space in the trunk. Two-row models can be outfitted with a pull-out cargo deck that allows for easier loading and unloading, and which can serve as a bench. Fort Dodge residents who have brought their families or partners out into the wilderness can thus sit comfortably with them outside the vehicle - a nice touch on Toyota's part.
Toyota is well-known for including state-of-the-art safety features in all its vehicles, regardless of the trim. The Highlander and 4Runner are no exceptions. Both enjoy forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist as standard features. Other manufacturers charge hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars for these safety elements.
Different SUVs for Different Folks
Depending on your needs the Highlander or 4Runner will make more sense for you. Iowans with families to cart around town will appreciate the luxury features of the Highlander, especially at higher trims, while those who desire to venture off the beaten path more often will be pleased by the 4Runner's rugged dependability on the trail. Either way, you can't go wrong, between Toyota's durable engineering and full suite of safety features on every model.
Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota is your full-service family store, located in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Whether you're based in Fort Dodge, elsewhere in Webster County, Des Moines, or in another part of the great state of Iowa, we hope to see you at our dealership soon!
