Toyota has long been considered a trusted name when it comes to rugged off-road SUVs. Their 2025 lineup boasts two mighty off-road warriors - the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and the newly revamped 2024 Land Cruiser - each serving different needs for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. This comprehensive comparison will help you select which SUV best meets your lifestyle requirements.
This article compares and contrasts the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, including their features, specifications, performance capabilities, price differences and overall market standings. Whether you're trying to decide between them or simply curious to know how they compare against each other - this comparison offers everything from specs and performance specifications to price differences and more. Ideally suited to help buyers choose between them or to see how these two legendary SUVs stand up against one another, we cover it all in this comparison article.
Prior to initiating any comparison between Toyota vehicles, it's essential to establish their place within their lineup.
For decades, the Toyota 4Runner has been revered for its off-road capabilities and durability. Over time it has evolved to meet the needs of adventurous drivers looking for a rugged body-on-frame design for navigating rugged terrain without compromising comfort on road. Now with 2025's editions adding modern tech features as well as expanded capabilities. Toyota has continued this legacy with innovative additions.
The Land Cruiser has become a beloved name in SUV world, known for its extreme off-road capability and premium luxury. Now in 2024, however, this icon of an SUV has undergone an extreme makeover reintroducing itself as more affordable yet highly capable vehicle with refined driving experience and off-road capabilities combined with ruggedness for those who value both sophistication on and off the trail.
One of the primary distinctions between these models lies in their platforms.
The 4Runner is known for its robustness and traditional SUV feel. It has retained many elements from its rugged roots such as its angular lines and aggressive stance. Specifically tailored towards off-road enthusiasts, offering trims like TRD Pro to enhance capability on challenging terrains.
Toyota has designed its 2024 Land Cruiser on its TNGA-F platform shared with Sequoia and Tundra models, improving on-road comfort, stability, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle design compared to older versions of Land Cruiser. While still highly capable off-road, this platform enables greater comfort on roads while improving on-road comfort, stability, and fuel economy compared to older versions of Land Cruiser. In addition, its modernized look also moves away from the bulkier designs seen before it. Interior Features and Technology (TNGA-F). Interior Features and Technology (Tundra).
Both SUVs come packed with modern tech features, but their levels of luxury and available features differ.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's interior remains functional and durable with an emphasis on practicality. It includes an 8-inch infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but overall interior design is less refined compared to Land Cruiser. Seat comfort focuses more heavily on rugged use rather than luxury features; TRD Off-Road and Pro trims offer features like all-terrain tires, locking rear differentials and advanced multi-terrain control systems for optimal off-roading performance.
The Land Cruiser takes luxury and technology to new heights, providing a more luxurious cabin experience than ever. The 2024 model offers a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a 14-speaker JBL sound system—not to mention advanced safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, pre-collision system, and more.
Performance is where these two SUVs begin to show their individual advantages.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission for smooth power delivery and decent off-road capability, but falls behind modern SUVs in terms of fuel efficiency and power. However, its off-road capabilities stand out thanks to options for full-time 4WD, skid plates, and high ground clearance.
The 2024 Land Cruiser features a modernized 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four hybrid engine that generates 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It also has an 8-speed automatic transmission for optimal fuel economy and smooth power delivery. Toyota's Multi-Terrain Select system also provides different driving modes to suit different surfaces, such as mud and sand, for optimal driving pleasure and towing and off-roading capabilities.
Both SUVs are built for off-road adventures, yet each brings unique strengths.
The 4Runner is an expert off-roader, boasting up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles. For added off-road capability, TRD Pro trim features additional off-road equipment like Fox shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires - with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making this vehicle suitable for hauling trailers or boats across rugged terrain.
The Land Cruiser is an icon among off-roaders, and this 2024 model continues this legacy with Toyota's advanced four-wheel-drive system. Offering up to 8,000 pounds of towing capacity and standard features such as locking center differential, Crawl Control, and adjustable suspension; making it even better suited to tough off-road conditions.
In terms of on-road performance, the Land Cruiser stands out due to its hybrid engine and modern platform. It provides a more comfortable experience on highways and urban roads alike while the 4Runner may feel rigid during long road trips due to its outdated powertrain setup and body-on-frame structure.
Both the 4Runner and Land Cruiser excel in terms of off-road capabilities; however, their methods vary. For dedicated off-roaders who prioritize rock crawling, trail adventures, and rugged terrain, the TRD Pro models of each vehicle excel. Meanwhile, the Land Cruiser leans more towards all-terrain comfort, with luxurious features suitable for both trail and city driving.
Now let's consider the price differences between these iconic SUVs:
2024 Toyota 4Runner Price: The base model starts at around $40,000. However, its more off-road capable TRD Pro trim can reach up to $55,000 in price.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Price: In comparison, the 2024 Land Cruiser starts at a higher price point, with its base model starting at around $55,000; fully-loaded luxury versions with more features can even exceed $70,000, making this model an extremely premium choice overall.
For off-road enthusiasts who value ruggedness over luxury, consider the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, which offers more budget-friendly trim levels without breaking your wallet.
Choose the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser if you want a versatile SUV that blends luxury, cutting-edge technology, and extreme off-road capability. Its hybrid engine and modern platform provide better fuel efficiency, comfort, and towing capacity - making it a more innovative option for those who value both performance and refinement.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner and 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser each shine in different ways, catering to distinct needs. The 4Runner is a rugged, off-road-focused SUV, ideal for adventurers seeking raw capability, durability, and affordability, especially with trims like the TRD Pro. Meanwhile, the Land Cruiser offers a more refined experience, blending impressive off-road performance with superior on-road comfort, luxury features, and a modern hybrid powertrain. It’s better suited for those who want a versatile vehicle that excels in both rugged environments and everyday driving. With a higher price, the Land Cruiser also offers greater towing capacity and upscale amenities, making it a premium option for families or individuals who seek both performance and refinement. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize off-road toughness or a balanced mix of luxury and capability.
This content was created by AI