The differences between the Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4Runner (2023)

If you are looking for spacious and reliable midsize SUVs, you have certainly heard about the Toyota Highlander vs Toyota 4Runner. Although they both belong to the same segment, they are truly different!

Your Longueuil Toyota dealership, on the South Shore of Montreal, helps you see more clearly.

Toyota Highlander vs 4Runner: Trim Levels and Prices

The Highlander vs 4Runner present a wide variety of trims and prices. On the one hand, you will find the Highlander in 5 different trim levels at your Toyota dealership:

• Highlander LE: $ 48,579 (starting at)
• Highlander XLE: $ 51,279 (starting at)
• Highlander XSE: $ 53,579 (starting at)
• Highlander Limited: $ 56,819 (starting at)
• Highlander Platinum: $ 58,479 (starting at)

On the other hand, the 4Runner offers package options that are similar to what we would find on a truck, like:

• 4Runner SR5 7- passenger: $ 54,819 (starting at)
• 4Runner TRD Sport: $ 58,039 (starting at)
• 4Runner 40^thAnniversary Special Edition: $ 58,149 (starting at)
• 4Runner TRD Off Road: $ 59,229 (starting at)
• 4Runner Limited 7- passenger: $ 62,269 (starting at)
• 4Runner TRD Pro: $ 69,989 (starting at)

2023 Toyota Highlander Limited

Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition

Interior and Exterior Design

When it comes to design, we are dealing with two very different Toyota SUVs. The 4Runner clearly boasts an adventurous spirit that focuses more on off-road driving, and with a rather square silhouette. As for the Highlander, it is an SUV with a more elongated and slender shape.

The 4Runner also has a higher ground clearance (244 mm) than the Highlander (203 mm), given how design is more geared toward adventure. The TRD Pro is the most aggressive, with:

• Protection plates
• Protection rails
• 5- inch all-terrain tires
• Fox shocks
• Etc.

The Highlander also includes practical elements like optional roof rails, along with bumper protectors, mud guards, etc. It also offers amenities like a foot activated tailgate.

Inside, the 4Runner offers enough space for 5- or 7- passengers, while the highlander offers enough room for 7- or 8-. The first truly focuses on a functional design, while the second has a more modern and user-friendly approach.

2023 Toyota Highlander

2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary

Highlander vs 4Runner: Dimensions

How do the Highlander vs 4Runner compare in terms of dimensions? Here is a summary table to make this clear:

As you can see, the Highlander is longer and slightly wider, while the 4Runner is higher, mostly thanks to the higher ground clearance.

Moreover, Toyota Canada has just announced the upcoming all-new Grand Highlander, for those who are looking for even more space.

2023 Toyota Highlander Turbo

2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary

Performance and Powertrains

In both cases, you will have access to powerful vehicles. The 4Runner is standard equipped with a 4.0 L V6 with 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft. maximum torque.

As for the Highlander, it offers a 2.4 L 4- cylinder turbo or a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5 L engine. The first will provide you with 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. maximum torque; the second gives you 243 horsepower and 263 lb-ft. maximum torque. The hybrid SUV stands out with its combined fuel consumption of only 6.4 L/100 km.

The 4Runner does require more fuel, but in exchange, it offers remarkable off-road performance with a part-time or full-time 4- wheel drive system, an optional multi-terrain ABS system and even more.  

If you would like to read our detailed blogs on these models, take a look at:

• The Toyota Highlander Spec Sheet
• The Toyota 4Runner Spec Sheet

Towing Capacity and Cargo Space

The 4Runner and Highlander both offer the same towing capacity, reaching up to 5,000 pounds! The Highlander hybrid has a slightly inferior towing capacity, which still reaches up to 3,500 pounds.

If you want to find out more, take a look at Toyota SUVs and trucks, and their towing capacities.

When it comes to cargo space, the Highlander offers between 453 and 2,387 liters of cargo. With the 4Runner, this will depend on the selected configuration. The 5- passenger model offers a total of between 1,337 liters and 2,540 liters. The 7- passenger model has a smaller trunk, with 255 liters, but total amount of cargo space is the same.

Comfort and Technologies

Inside, both Toyota models offer similar comfort features such as:

• A standard offered 8- way power driver’s seat
• Heated front seats
• SofTex upholstered seats or optional leather upholstery
• Ventilated front seats with the Limited trim

When it comes to the different technologies, both offer a standard 8- inch touch screen with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, etc.

The Highlander offers a little bit more by integrating Siri Eyes Free and a larger optional 12.3- inch screen. Both offer an optional JBL sound system for higher sound quality.

2023 Toyota Highlander

2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary

Highlander vs 4Runner: Prices

Prices for the Highlander are between $ 48,579 and $ 58,479, while 4Runner prices are slightly higher, between $ 54,819 and $ 69,989. This can easily be explained with the 4Runner’s mechanical components that provide you with superior off-road capabilities.

In both cases, you can opt for an advantageous financing plan.

Specs: Highlander vs 4Runner

Without further ado, here is how they compare:

All in all, the Highlander is more geared toward family transportation by offering cutting-edge technologies and amenities, while the 4Runner is perfect for those who are more adventurous and love to drive off the beaten path.

Find out more with Toyota Canada or come and take advantage of our Toyota special offers in Longueuil! We are looking forward to meeting you in dealership, close to Brossard and Boucherville.