Toyota 4Runner vs Toyota Grand Highlander

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented a significant evolution in design rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation but with a bulkier, more industrial look. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases that blended seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the 4Runner a broad-shouldered stance suitable for an off-road SUV. Paying homage to its predecessors, the new model included a slanted rearmost window reminiscent of the first-gen 4Runner. Inside, the cabin echoed the beveled styling motif, offering a purposeful yet comfortable environment. While hard plastics were prevalent to withstand rugged use, the materials were of higher quality than those found in competitors like the Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander came in various trims, with the top-spec Hybrid Max Platinum being the focus of our test drive. Its exterior styling was functional rather than flashy, with a wide, flat-bottomed grille and boxy silhouette. The interior was practical, featuring a brown color scheme with leather and Ultrasuede-trimmed seats, bronze accents, and fake wood trim. The cabin felt spacious and airy, thanks to ambient lighting and a panoramic glass roof. The third row offered ample legroom, making it comfortable for taller passengers. The Grand Highlander prioritized practicality, with features like a storage shelf in the dash, a removable center console in the second row, and a power liftgate for easy cargo access.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The entry-level trims came with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup promised improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation's V6. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option. The more off-road-oriented models came standard with 4WD. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, based on the same four-cylinder engine, delivered 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid variant provided stronger power at lower speeds, making it ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling was more composed on pavement, with reduced nosedive and body roll compared to its predecessor. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine distinct trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 265 horsepower in the non-hybrid version. The lower-level hybrid powertrain had a 2.5-liter inline-four producing 245 hp, while the Hybrid Max powertrain combined the 2.4-liter turbo-four with a hybrid system for 362 hp. Most models came with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional. The Hybrid Max had full-time all-wheel drive, providing stability and agility. While not a performance vehicle, the Grand Highlander accelerated quickly, and the brakes felt firm. The Hybrid Max included Toyota's Multi-Terrain Select system for maximum traction, but it wasn't recommended for serious off-roading.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase. While this typically resulted in more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped and lacked thigh support. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and grouped off-road controls for easy operation. Storage options included slatted door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, further reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the hybrid due to the raised floor.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander offered three-zone climate control with physical buttons and knobs. The third row was spacious, with over five inches more legroom than the standard Highlander. The second row accommodated rear-facing car seats easily, and retractable window shades were available on most trims. The interior featured a storage shelf in the dash, a cubby in front of the shifter, and multiple cupholders. Cargo space was generous, with 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 58 cubes with the rear seats folded, and nearly 98 cubic feet with the second row stowed. The gas and Hybrid Max powertrains could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were offered. Off-road-focused models included external camera views for precise tire placement on trails. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system was available, along with a portable center speaker. Remote monitoring and control were accessible through a smartphone app, and a digital key function allowed phone-based keyless entry.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander came with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen on all trims, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was responsive, though some menus were confusing. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster allowed for customization. The Platinum trim included a digital rearview camera mirror and a 360-degree camera system with a see-through bird's-eye view. A 10-inch head-up display showed speed, road signs, and navigation. Every trim had seven USB-C ports and two 12-volt outlets, with wireless charging pads on most trims.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the Tacoma pickup on which it was based received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. All 4Runner models came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane centering, and adaptive cruise control. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert was standard. Traffic jam assist was available on top trims, providing control inputs at low speeds. Proactive Driving Assist was best turned off due to its non-committal nature. The NHTSA gave the Grand Highlander a five-star safety rating, while the IIHS awarded it mostly top "Good" scores.