2025 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

Hey everyone! So, you’re probably as excited as we are about the arrival of the redesigned 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the all-new Land Cruiser. These two off-road-oriented mid-size SUVs from Toyota have been generating a ton of buzz, and for good reason! But, with all the hype, it can be tough to figure out which one is the right fit for you. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed comparison, diving into all the important stuff to help you make the best choice. We’ll be looking at everything from price and performance to off-road chops and tech features. And, get this, they actually share the same platform and the powerful i-FORCE MAX powertrain! Let’s get started!

The Basics: Overview of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner

Alright, let’s kick things off with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner. This is the sixth generation of the 4Runner, and it’s sporting a fresh redesign. It’s all about giving you choices, with a bunch of different trim levels to pick from. You’ve got the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and the Trailhunter. That’s a lot of options!

When it comes to power, you have a couple of choices. The base engine is a non-hybrid 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (called the i-FORCE), which delivers a solid 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. If you want more oomph, there’s the optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain that cranks out 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. As for how the power gets to the wheels, you can choose between 2WD, part-time 4WD, and full-time 4WD. Plus, there’s an automatic limited-slip differential and an electronic locking rear differential on some of the trims. Basically, the 4Runner is all about giving you lots of versatility and options to match your needs.

The Basics: Overview of the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser

Now, let’s talk about the 2025 Land Cruiser. This version has been downsized and made more affordable, which is a pretty big change. The Land Cruiser also comes in a few different trims, but it’s a simpler lineup compared to the 4Runner: the Land Cruiser 1958, the Land Cruiser, and the First Edition.

Under the hood, every Land Cruiser comes standard with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, which means you’re getting that 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. And, no matter which trim you choose, you’ll get full-time 4WD with center and rear locking differentials. The Land Cruiser is definitely aiming for a more premium feel and is built for serious off-road adventures.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Key Differences

Okay, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and see how these two SUVs stack up against each other.

Dimensions and Size: Both share the same 112.2-inch wheelbase. However, the Land Cruiser is more than five inches taller, while the 4Runner is a bit longer.

Weight and Payload: The 4Runner is lighter, coming in at 4,850 pounds, while the Land Cruiser weighs 5,445 pounds. But, the 4Runner has a higher payload capacity of 1,390 pounds, compared to the Land Cruiser’s 1,280 pounds. The Land Cruiser has a higher gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) at 6,725 pounds, compared to the 4Runner’s 6,240 pounds.

Off-Road Capability:

Approach, Departure, and Breakover Angles: The Land Cruiser has a much better approach angle at 31 degrees, while the 4Runner has a 32 degree approach angle. The 4Runner’s departure angle is 24 degrees while the Land Cruiser’s is 22 degrees.
4WD Systems: The Land Cruiser has a full-time 4WD system, whereas the 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium i-FORCE MAX comes with part-time 4WD.
Sway Bar Disconnect: Only the Land Cruiser comes with a front sway bar disconnect.
Shocks: The 4Runner TRD Off-Road uses Bilstein shocks, while the Land Cruiser uses unbranded Tokico twin-tube shocks.

Powertrain and Performance: The Land Cruiser requires premium fuel, but the 4Runner can use regular fuel. The 4Runner also offers a non-hybrid engine option, but both have the same eight-speed transmission and the same power output with the hybrid powertrain. The hybrid-only Land Cruiser gets 22 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, while the non-hybrid 4Runner gets up to 26 mpg on the highway.

Fuel Tank and Range: The 4Runner has a slightly larger fuel tank (19 gallons) compared to the Land Cruiser’s 17.9 gallons, giving it a longer average range. The 4Runner gets about 437 miles of range, while the Land Cruiser gets about 412 miles.

Towing Capacity: Both SUVs can tow up to 6,000 pounds.

Interior and Cargo:

Passenger Space: The Land Cruiser has more front head, shoulder, and legroom, but the 4Runner has more rear legroom.
Cargo Space: The 4Runner has more cargo space at 90.2 cubic feet behind the first row and 48.4 behind the second row, compared to the Land Cruiser’s 82.1 and 46.2 cubic feet, respectively.
Seating: Some 4Runner models can be optioned with seven seats, while the Land Cruiser is limited to five.

Technology and Features:

Infotainment Screen: The 4Runner has a larger 14-inch infotainment screen, while the Land Cruiser has a 12.3-inch screen.
Audio: The 4Runner features a JBL premium audio system with a portable Bluetooth speaker, while the Land Cruiser comes with a standard 10-speaker system.
Climate Control: The Land Cruiser has a more premium three-zone climate control system, while the 4Runner has a single-zone system.
Charging: Both have a 12V center console auxiliary outlet and a cargo area 120V AC power outlet. The 4Runner has two 400W outlets, while the Land Cruiser has one 2,400W outlet. The Land Cruiser has six USB outlets, while the 4Runner has five USB-C ports and also has a wireless charging pad.
Power Rear Tailgate Window: Only the 4Runner has the handy power rear tailgate window.

Comfort and Convenience:

Steering: The Land Cruiser has quicker and more responsive steering.
Front Passenger Seat: The 4Runner has a better front passenger seat with eight-way power adjustability, while the Land Cruiser only has a six-way manual seat.
Rear Tailgate: The 4Runner has a power rear tailgate window, while the Land Cruiser has a manual lift-up glass window.
Cup Holders: Both have 12 cup/bottle holders.

Pricing and Value

Let’s talk about the money. The base 2WD 4Runner starts at $42,220, while the base Land Cruiser starts at $57,900. The Land Cruiser “Land Cruiser” model starts at $63,900, and the 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium i-FORCE MAX starts at $59,220. It’s worth noting that the 4Runner has seen some pretty big price increases compared to the previous generation. While the 4Runner has a lower starting price, once you get into the higher-spec models, it can actually become more expensive than the base Land Cruiser. You might also be able to negotiate a discount on the Land Cruiser. It is worth keeping an eye on the second-hand market, as the Land Cruiser’s price may drop in the future.

Real-World Experiences and User Feedback

So, what are people actually saying about these SUVs? Well, according to folks who have upgraded from older 4Runners to the new Land Cruiser, the Land Cruiser has better power, especially when loaded down with passengers and gear. The new Land Cruiser also has more responsive steering and better handling both on and off-road. Some users have also noted the new tech can be annoying, but it can be adjusted to your liking. In terms of real-world fuel efficiency, one owner reported that their 2024 Tacoma gets 18 mpg in the city, which is similar to their 2024 4Runner.

Which One Should You Buy?

Alright, so which SUV should you choose?

For Off-Road Enthusiasts: The Land Cruiser has a better approach angle and full-time 4WD, making it great for serious off-roading. However, the 4Runner is no slouch, with good clearances and available off-road features.

For Daily Driving: The Land Cruiser offers a more comfortable ride and better steering. The 4Runner also provides a good driving experience with more passenger room and the power rear window, and an optional portable speaker.

For Families: The 4Runner can be optioned with seven seats and has more cargo space, making it potentially better for families.

For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The 4Runner has a lower starting price and may have a lower long-term cost of ownership. Keep in mind that the higher trims of the 4Runner can be more expensive than the base Land Cruiser. There is also a possibility of negotiating discounts on the Land Cruiser.

Pros and Cons Summary:

Land Cruiser:
- Pros: Better approach angle, full-time 4WD, premium feel, quicker steering.
- Cons: Higher price, less cargo space, fewer seating options, requires premium fuel.
4Runner:
- Pros: Lower starting price, more cargo space, more seating options, available non-hybrid engine, a power rear window and a portable speaker.
- Cons: Part-time 4WD, single-zone climate control, less front passenger room.

Consider the Lexus GX550: If you want a luxury option with a third row, consider the Lexus GX550.

Conclusion

Okay, that was a lot, but hopefully, you now have a clearer picture of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser! At the end of the day, the “best” choice really depends on what you need and what you value most. The 4Runner is great for those who want a versatile and affordable off-roader, while the Land Cruiser is for those looking for premium features and serious off-road capabilities. We highly recommend you take both of them for a test drive before making your final call.

What do you think? Are you team 4Runner or team Land Cruiser? Let us know in the comments below!’

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