Give it up for the 2020 Jeep Cherokee. It just gained a narrow victory over the 2020 Toyota 4Runner. The Jeep Cherokee seems to be the more popular choice, even though both options have tons of excellent features to consider. 

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee vs. the 2020 Toyota 4Runner 

According to MarketWatch, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee serves as a more popular option than the 2020 Toyota 4Runner. In 2020 the Cherokee sold 135,855 units, and the 4Runner sold 129,052 units. 

On their list of the most popular SUVs on the market, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 claimed first place with 430,387 units sold, and the Chevrolet Blazer landed in last place with about 94,599 units sold. 

The Jeep Cherokee is popular on this list for having more off-road-oriented features than rivals. It’s well equipped for tackling trails but still provides a comfortable ride for daily commutes. The Toyota 4Runner is favored for having a durable V6 engine and serious off-roading chops, but it’s overdue for a redesign. 

Does the Cherokee or 4Runner have a better performance? 

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee offers three engines. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder base engine provides 180 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumps out 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. 

With the 3.2-liter V6 engine, you get 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque. When properly equipped, the Cherokee can tow up to 4,500 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,987 lbs. This is enough muscle to pull smaller campers, trailers, bikes, and boats. 

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner comes with a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. It can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,275 lbs. These SUVs seem pretty evenly matched so far. 

You may get a better off-roading performance from the Toyota 4runner TRD Pro with its TRD-tuned FOX high-performance shocks, aluminum skid plate, locking rear differential, and durable cabin. 

However, the Jeep Cherokee TrailHawk is also great for off-roading with the Jeep Active II 4×4 System that features a two-speed power transfer unit. It can lock the front and rear driveshafts for extra power. 

Does the 4Runner or Cherokee have better features? 

You can get started in a 2020 Toyota 4Runner for about $36,120. The 2020 Jeep Cherokee starts at about $25,840. The 4Runner offers third-row seating. The Grand Cherokee L is the more affordable Jeep with a third row, and the Cherokee only has two rows. 

The Cherokee has a smoother ride, but you may prefer the higher driver position of the 4Runner. Both options have a little wind and road noise in the cabin. The Cherokee is the sportier option, but the 4Runner has more cargo space for your kids and gear. 

Both options come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the software in the Cherokee feels a little more updated and easier to use. For 2020, the 4Runner gained updated graphics and simplified menus. 

The Jeep Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner both serve as great off-roading options. The Cherokee might be a more comfortable daily driver, but the 4Runner is a little more durable and provides more space.