VS
At a Glance
Power
278hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque
317lb-ft @ 1700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Fuel
—
24 mpg est.
Towing
6000lbs
5000lbs
Engine
2.4 L/146ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the Toyota 4runner and the Toyota Grand Highlander is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Toyota 4runner delivers 278hp @ 6000 while the Toyota Grand Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $42,070 for the 4runner and $42,260 for the Grand Highlander. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Specification
Toyota 4runnerSR5 2WD (Natl) 2026 - From $42,070
Toyota Grand HighlanderLE AWD (Natl) 2026 - From $42,260
Performance
Power Output (hp)
278hp @ 6000
265hp @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft)
317lb-ft @ 1700
310lb-ft @ 1700
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.4 L/146ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
—
24 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
—
21 (2025)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
—
27 (2025)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
19gal
17.8gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.9in
201.4in
Width (in)
77.9in
78.3in
Height (in)
72.6in
70.1in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
116.1in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4455lbs
4440lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
6000lbs
5000lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
—
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Toyota 4runner
2 / 4 categories
Performance
4runner
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Tied
Practicality
4runner
Pros & Cons
Toyota 4runner
Lower starting price ($42,070)
Higher towing capacity (6000lbs)
Few notable weaknesses
Toyota Grand Highlander
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 4runner or Grand Highlander?
The 4runner produces 278hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the Grand Highlander delivers 265hp @ 6000 and 310lb-ft @ 1700 of torque. The 4runner is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the 4runner and Grand Highlander?
The 4runner starts from $42,070 and the Grand Highlander from $42,260, a difference of just $190, which is negligible. At this price point the two are essentially tied on starting price. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the 4runner or Grand Highlander?
The 4runner has a braked towing capacity of 6000lbs and the Grand Highlander can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the 4runner or the Grand Highlander?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.