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 Highlander is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Toyota 4runner delivers 278hp @ 6000 while the Toyota Highlander produces 265hp @ 6000. Pricing starts at $56,270 for the 4runner and $53,225 for the 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 4runnerTRD Off Road Premium 4WD (Natl) 2026 - From $56,270
Toyota HighlanderPlatinum AWD (Natl) 2026 - From $53,225
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 w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
8
Drive Wheels
Four Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
—
24 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
—
21 (Est)mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
—
28 (Est)mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
19gal
17.9gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
194.9in
194.9in
Width (in)
77.9in
76in
Height (in)
73.6in
68.1in
Wheelbase (in)
112.2in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4850lbs
4453lbs
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
Rear Parking Aid
—
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ 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
Highlander
Practicality
4runner
Pros & Cons
Toyota 4runner
Higher towing capacity (6000lbs)
Higher starting price
Toyota Highlander
Lower starting price ($53,225)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the 4runner or Highlander?
The 4runner produces 278hp @ 6000 and 317lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the 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 Highlander?
The 4runner starts from $56,270 and the Highlander from $53,225. The Highlander is cheaper by $3,045 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the 4runner or Highlander?
The 4runner has a braked towing capacity of 6000lbs and the Highlander can tow 5000lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the 4runner or the 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.