2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Highlander

The 2024 Toyota SUV lineup features some of the most sought-after vehicles on the market. And for good reason. Toyota SUVs have always been known for their reliability and the latest models feature some of the best technology, interior and safety features that you can find on the market. Two of the most popular SUVs are the Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Highlander. Both of these vehicles are mid-size SUVs and are perfect for those families who need a little more room for passengers and cargo. But what are the similarities and differences between these two popular vehicles? In this article, we’ll compare the 2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Highlander to help you choose which is best for you and your needs. 

Capability and Performance Comparison

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is the perfect vehicle for the adventure-seeking drivers or those looking for more capability in various driving conditions. Featuring a 4.0L V6 engine which produces up to 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque and can allow for towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The 4Runner also comes with both full-time Four-Wheel Drive and part-time Four-Wheel Drive which allows drivers to navigate even the toughest terrains while also providing enhanced traction for daily driving. Other capability features include an electronic locking rear differential, crawl control and multi-terrain select drive modes for ultimate traction control. All said, the Toyota 4Runner is one of the most capable SUVs on the market. 

On the other hand, the 2024 Toyota Highlander features everything you’re looking for in a family-friendly SUV. Starting off, you’ll get a 2.4L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which provides up to 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Highlander also comes in a Hybrid engine option which gets up to an impressive 36 combined MPG. Like the 4Runner, you can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough to tow lighter trailer loads and small boats. While a four-wheel drive option is not available, the Highlander does get an available torque vectoring All-Wheel Drive system to deliver improved responsiveness and stability when you need it most. You’ll also get the multi-terrain select drive modes that are available on the 4Runner. 

Exterior and Design Comparison

The Toyota 4Runner has always been known for its rugged exterior and the 2024 model is no different. The 4Runner features a commanding front-grill, a boxy exterior design and LED headlights and fog lights. Opt for the coveted TRD Pro trim level to get upgraded badging, all-terrain tires and enhanced exterior color options. 

Conversely, the Toyota Highlander features a more aerodynamic exterior design. The Highlander boasts a sculpted and contoured exterior design whereas the 4Runner is generally seen as having a boxy, straight-edged look. The Highlander also sports a bold front-grille focused around the Toyota logo badge. Power-folding side mirrors and an eye-catching twin-tip exhaust are other features that stand out on the Highlander exterior. Premium alloy wheels and LED headlights cap off the Highlander’s modern look.

Interior and Comfort Comparison

The 4Runner features a practical and durable interior that goes perfect with the capability-centered design. Available SofTex-trimmed seats, power tilt/slide moonroof and heated and ventilated front seating provides a luxurious touch to the practical interior. Also available on the Limited trim are wooden interior accents for those looking for the traditional luxurious feel. The 4Runner also comes in both a two-row and three-row configuration.

The interior of the Highlander is focused on comfort and convenience for passengers and drivers alike. Unlike the 4Runner, the Highlander gets third-row seating for up to 8 passengers as a standard feature on all trims. You’ll also enjoy a panoramic moonroof, heated and ventilated front seating and a Qi-wireless smartphone charging pad. The 2024 Highlander is built for the long-family road trip and daily driving alike. 

Technology and Entertainment Options Comparison

Both the 4Runner and Highlander come loaded with all of the available technology you would expect in a modern SUV. The centerpiece of the 4Runner is an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You’ll love the 15-speaker JBL Premium Audio System with an amplifier and subwoofer. An available panoramic view monitor uses multiple cameras to give you a 360-degree view of your surroundings. 

The Highlander gets one important upgrade over the 4Runner – a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia Touchscreen Display. The larger screen also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Another difference is in the audio system. The Highlander gets an 11-speaker surround sound system compared to the 15-speaker system on the 4Runner. Both vehicles feature USB charging ports throughout the vehicle.

Safety and Security Comparison

Toyota is known for its commitment to safety and both the 4Runner and Highlander come loaded with available safety features. Both vehicles get the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ suite of features which include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and more. The 2024 Toyota Highlander also boasts the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick designation. This helps give the Highlander the edge in this category.

Price and Warranty Comparison

The 4Runner and Highlander both come with competitive pricing and warranty coverages. The starting MSRP and trim level pricing vary, with the Highlander generally starting at a slightly higher price point than the 4Runner, given its additional luxury and advanced technological features. Both vehicles offer comprehensive warranty packages, ensuring peace of mind for new owners.

The 4Runner and Highlander both come with competitive pricing and warranty options. Both vehicles get the 36-month/36,000 mile basic warranty and 60-month/60,000 mile powertrain warranty. As you would expect, the pricing will vary based on trim levels and additional features and options that are included in your vehicle. The 2024 4Runner starts at a slightly higher MSRP of $40,705 for the base level SR5 trim level. This compares to the 2024 Highlander LE which starts at $39,270. At the top of the range, the price variance increases with the Runner TRD Pro starting at $55,170 versus the Highlander Hybrid Platinum which starts at $51,425.

Conclusion

Deciding between the 2024 Toyota Highlander and the 2024 Toyota 4Runner will likely boil down to which options are most important to you and your family. If you are looking for capability and handling, the 4Runner stands out. However, if you are looking for an efficient, family-friendly ride, then the Highlander may be the best choice for you. However both options offer reliability that you won’t find outside of the Toyota brand.   

2024 4Runner and 2024 Highlander at Westside Toyota

Thanks for reading our article on the 2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Highlander. Westside Toyota is proud to offer both the 2024 Toyota 4Runner and 2024 Toyota Highlander for sale to customers. Our Toyota Sales Professionals are standing by to help you in your purchasing decision. Call, click or stop by our Toyota dealership today!