There are many models in Toyota’s lineup; take the 4Runner and Land Cruiser, for example; as both SUVs are situated on the same platform, both resemble each other as far as design is concerned, and they tend to share a fair amount of capabilities. They are both suited for off-roading, strong enough to tow impressive loads, and offer a rugged appeal to drivers that adds an adventurous feel to any ride. It seemed as though Toyota realized this too, bidding adieu to the Land Cruiser after the 2021 model year, but alas! It’s back on the scene.
Passing by your local Toyota dealer, you may have seen both models positioned prominently on the lot. The 4Runner and Land Cruiser have been staples in the Toyota lineup for years, but what makes them stand out from each other? Why would drivers choose one over the other? These are all very good questions that deserve answers. So, should Toyota just pick one model and dedicate its time to it or do both deserve a place in this celebrated brand’s arsenal? To establish an answer to all of these questions, it’s time to compare them.
Off-Road Fun
Seeing as both of these SUVs are geared up for off-roading, let’s start there. Take the 2025 4Runner, for instance, as it can be armed with impressive off-road features with its new Trailhunter trim, which includes Old Man Emu off-road equipment, as well as an e-locking rear differential to tackle the terrain with confidence. The 4Runner also offers features, like Crawl Control to effortlessly climb over rocks and a Multi-Terrain Monitor to watch for obstacles surrounding you on the trails.
Not to be outdone, the 2025 Land Cruiser features a full-time four-wheel drive system to exhibit exceptional traction, no matter what environment it’s traveling in next. You’ll also find a locking center differential, Crawl Control, and even assistance on steep terrain. Plus, with its small and agile size, the Land Cruiser can easily hop from one obstacle to the next without hesitation.
New 4Runner models offer more ground clearance with a higher stance, as well as better approach and departure angles, which can really affect your off-roading experience. For buyers who are serious about off-roading, both the 4Runner and Land Cruiser are outstanding options. The 4Runner may just pull slightly ahead here, however, due to its higher stance and better angles.
On-Road Demeanor
The 2025 4Runner is armed with a selection of new i-FORCE powertrains, including a 2.4L i-FORCE turbocharged four-cylinder or an i-FORCE MAX turbocharged variant, which makes 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, offering a pleasant blend of excitement and power. It can tow up to 5,000 lbs, which makes it an ideal choice for those looking to pull their camper out into the woods for the weekend or their boat to the lake for some time on the water.
In the past, it’s reported to have been a bit harsh on the road, driving more like a truck than an SUV, which could also deter drivers searching for an off-roader that can quickly transform into a daily driver. Now that it resides on the new TNGA-F platform, which offers better comfort and control on the road, the 4Runner may finally be able to keep up with others in its class as far as highway driving is concerned.
On the other end of the spectrum, the 2025 Land Cruiser is always a dream to drive. This famous Toyota nameplate is now a hybrid, showcasing a 2.4L i-FORCE MAX turbocharged four-cylinder paired with two electric motors, offering drivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. It’s powerful and lively to drive, and with a towing capacity of 6,000 lbs, it’s able to take on more than the 4Runner. When drivers are searching for a powerful, efficient, and enjoyable ride, the Land Cruiser outperforms the 4Runner in this aspect.
Interior Comfort
There are plenty of 4Runner trims to choose from, making it easy to create the ideal cabin ambiance. From leather-trimmed seats to a power tilting and sliding moonroof, wood interior accents to heated and ventilated front seats, the 4Runner maximizes the experience inside. For the first time, the 4Runner can be enjoyed in the Platinum trim, which features second-row heated seats, black accents throughout, and an overall upscale feel inside and out. Although top-level trims offer what seems like all the bells and whistles, entry-level trims lack a bit of the jena se qua that tends to be found in top-level options. You will find plenty of space inside for passengers, though, with fold-flat second and third row seating help make its interior highly accommodating, which makes up for the fact that some of its trims aren’t the fanciest.
The Land Cruiser doesn’t offer the wide array of trims that you’ll find in the 4Runner’s arsenal, which really limits what you’re able to enjoy as far as comfort is concerned. The new Land Cruiser is smaller than its predecessors, which limits its space for both passengers and cargo; however, its top-tier trim offers high-end features, like leather upholstery, heated seats, and a premium feel on board. This makes up for the fact that the Land Cruiser is vastly smaller than before. For drivers who want more space, choose the 4Runner; for those who want a bit more luxury, the Land Cruiser’s higher-level trim may be more in-tune with your needs.
Price Points
Despite the fact that both the 4Runner and Land Cruiser are very similar in various aspects, the difference in price is astounding. The 2025 4Runner currently has a starting price of approximately $43K for its base model. This gets you tech like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, and Toyota Safety Sense, in addition to comfort features like a leather steering wheel, fabric seat trim, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Top-level trims are expected to start around $54K and increase as you add more features and better-quality materials.
The 2025 Land Cruiser is on the more expensive end of the spectrum, with its base trims expected to start around $55K, offering drivers everything from heated seats to rear and center locking differentials. Top-tier models are expected to showcase a sticker price of approximately $75K, which is a big jump compared to the 4Runner arsenal. For drivers searching for a more affordable adventure mate, the 4Runner is a no-brainer.
Is There Room for Both Models?
It’s true that both vehicles offer a different experience to drivers. While they can both hold their own off-road, the Land Cruiser is able to offer a better on-road performance, but since the Land Cruiser is much smaller than before, the 4Runner is more capable of accommodating more people and gear comfortably. The 4Runner also offers a varied selection of trims for far less money than the lack of options offered in the Land Cruiser’s arsenal.
The fact that the Land Cruiser is a hybrid now is a good reason why it should stay in the lineup. Both models give drivers the chance to choose between a gas-powered off-road traveler and a hybrid option, and they have a variety of models to choose from in both camps offered at a wide range of price points. The reality is that both Toyota midsize SUVs are important to the lineup and offer a wide range of options regarding performance, efficiency, and modern tech. Ultimately, their varying price points may be the deciding factor for many drivers in the market for a rugged and reliable SUV.
