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The 2022 Toyota 4Runner is an off-roading beast. Toyota decided to pit it against the Jeep Wrangler to see which SUV is more capable off-road. Which SUV is the better buy for the money? Time for 2022 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2022 Jeep Wrangler.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner gives the Wrangler a run for its money

A red 2022 Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV is driving off-road.
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner | Toyota

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner starts at $38,105. It’s pricier than many of its rivals. The 2022 Kia Telluride is a better buy for the money, but the 4Runner is an entirely different type of midsize SUV.

You don’t buy a Toyota 4Runner for reliability. You buy one for capability and value over time. The Toyota 4Runner is No.1 on a list of most reliable, longest-lasting midsize SUVs compiled by ISeeCars.com.

The 4Runner retains its value incredibly well over time and outlasts the majority of its rivals. Sure, it’s pricey, but the 4Runner can easily last for 200,000 miles.

Kelley Blue Book claims that the average American drives 14,263 miles a year. Based on those numbers, the average driver could own a new 4Runner for 14 years without needing to change vehicles. ISeeCars.com claims drivers keep new vehicles for about 8.4 years. The 4Runner is available in eight different trim levels, including a Trail Special Edition and TRD Off-Road trim.

The Jeep Wrangler is an affordable off-road SUV

A red 2022 Jeep Wrangler
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler | Jeep

The Jeep Wrangler is the quintessential off-road SUV in many ways. It’s affordable for many Americans, and it’s extremely capable off-road. The Wrangler also comes in several different trims offering different degrees of capability.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler starts at $29,995. Car and Driver praises its capability and style. MotorTrend ranks the 2022 Jeep Wrangler as No.1 in off-road SUVs. So, which off-road SUV is the better buy, the midsize 4Runner, or the compact Jeep Wrangler?

2022 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2022 Jeep Wrangler

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2022 Jeep Wrangler seems like an apples to oranges comparison, but Toyota took the liberty of breaking down the matchup anyway. The Wrangler is logically the more affordable option, as it is smaller. The 4Runner has a better history of reliability over time.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner has 9.6 inches of ground clearance. The Jeep Wrangler has 9.7 inches of ground clearance. Both models are ideal for off-road adventures. Toyota gives the Jeep Wrangler its props but ultimately determines that the 4Runner comes with better standard features.

The Wrangler is an off-road legend, but it’s tough to argue with the incredible value that the 4Runner provides. If you’re looking for a family SUV that can also double as an off-road SUV, the 4Runner is the better choice.

Read about why the 4Runner may not be the best midsize SUV for you in the next article below.

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