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When you’ve got your sights set on a Toyota SUV, you have a few options to consider. Most notably, drivers are often torn between the 2021 Toyota 4Runner vs. Highlander. Both of these vehicles offer similar features and space, but there’s some differences of note that you’ll want to consider to be sure that you’re making the right decision.
At Group 1 Toyota West Bank, we’re here to assist drivers throughout Harvey, New Orleans, and Metairie with learning more about the Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander. Keep reading to see which SUV is more your style and contact us today!
The Toyota 4Runner comes standard with a 4.0L V6 engine that’s mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine can produce 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The Highlander, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine. This engine comes paired with a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic and can produce 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque.
The major difference here is that the Highlander offers more options with the engine selection. On top of the base engine, the Highlander features an available 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 186 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. However, with a little help from the electric motor, this set up boasts a combined net 243 horsepower.
This engine adds a more efficient and eco-friendly performance to your trips across the Crescent City Connection and beyond!
Another factor that can certainly appeal drivers about the 4Runner and Highlander is the assortment of sophisticated features and amenities within their cabins. Each vehicle comes equipped with the Entune™ Audio Plus system. This system includes a 6.1-inch touchscreen in the center of the dashboard that you can use to access your assortment of media options. These screens even incorporate advanced voice recognition, so you can simply use your voice to select your features or phone contacts from the road.
Each SUV comes equipped with an AM/FM radio, USB/auxiliary inputs for portable devices, and even Bluetooth® technology that lets you make hands-free phone calls or stream audio entertainment from your phone into the vehicles’ audio system.
Although there are some interesting similarities between the 4Runner vs. Highlander with their respective media options and technology, there are a few differences. The 4Runner comes with HD Radio™, which delivers high-quality streaming from the AM/FM stations while eliminating any buzz or interference due to the band frequency. The 4Runner also offers compatibility to the Scout® GPS Link, as well as a 3-month trial to SiriusXM® Satellite Radio which provides access to more than 150 different commercial-free stations.
A major difference between the Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander is the safety technology. The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, which is a system that includes several driver-assisting features that work alongside exterior sensors that measure speed and distance.
Using these readings, these systems can detect an issue or a potential collision and warn you while utilizing selective braking to help reduce the severity of a collision and give you a window to react and prevent one entirely.
These features include the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, and even Dynamic Radar Cruise Control which will actually adapt to the flow of traffic without needing driver intervention. The 4Runner, while equipped with plenty of impressive safety features, includes the base Toyota Safety Sense™ P driver-assisting technology features.
Additionally, the Highlander offers features like Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist. These features aren’t available with the 4Runner.
At Group 1 Toyota West Bank, we hope that our Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander comparison gave you the details you need to tell these two great SUVs apart. While each vehicle offers their own set of advantages, you also took notice of their differences in a variety of expansive categories. If you’re still torn, you can always drop by for a visit and a closer look at these SUVs, so you can truly decide on the one that’s perfect for you!
Take a spin in the 4Runner or Highlander by scheduling a test drive with us at Group 1 Toyota West Bank! We’re here to help drivers near Harvey, New Orleans, and Metairie find the vehicle that’s right for them and their experiences on the road with their family and friends.
