Do You Need the Toyota Tacoma or Toyota 4Runner?
When it comes to off-roading, two of the most iconic options include the Toyota Tacoma and the Toyota 4Runner. But which one is better? Do you need the mid-size truck or the three-row SUV? Let’s see how these Toyota off-roaders compare.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Toyota 4Runner
Let’s start with pricing. You can get started with the 2022 Toyota Tacoma for about $27,150, while the 2022 Toyota 4Runner starts at $38,501, which is a vast difference. But what’s the cost for the off-roading models?
The Tacoma TRD Of-Road increases the price to $35,340, while the 4Runner TRD Off-Road takes things up to $41,395. Also, the 4Runner TRD Pro rings in at $52,920. But it could come with more luxury.
Plus, the 4Runner can seat up to seven passengers, while the Tacoma seats up to five. However, the third-row seats are pretty small and often reserved for children. But the rear seats in the Tacoma are also tight.
Does the Tacoma or 4Runner have a better performance?
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma has a standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. We recommend upgrading to the 3.5-liter V6 engine for 287 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.7 seconds.
With the 2022 Toyota 4Runner, you get a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 7.6 seconds.
When properly equipped, the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and carry a payload of 1,685. The 4runner can tow up to 5,000 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,700 lbs.
The Tacoma has a 9.4-inch ground clearance while the 4Runner sits at 9.6-inches. Also, the Tacoma has a 32.0-degree approach angle and a 23.1-degree departure angle. The 4Runner has a 33.0-degree approach angle and a 26.0-degree departure angle.
Also, the Tacoma gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and up to 23 mpg on the highway. The 4Runner gets an EPA-estimated 16 mph in the city and up to 19 mpg on the highway.
The Tacoma features 42.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. You can opt for a five-foot or six-foot bed. The 4Runner provides 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 87.9 cubes total.
Does the Tacoma or 4Runner have better features?
Both options may seem a little dated. The Toyota Tacoma was last redesigned in 2016, and the Toyota 4Runner was updated in 2009. But new generations are on the way for 2024!
The Tacoma has a standard 7.0-inch infotainment screen, but you can upgrade to the 8.0-inch unit. The Toyota 4Runner has a standard 8.0-inch screen. Both SUVs have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both come with standard forward collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
According to The Car Connection, the 4Runner has more comfortable seats. Ut the Tacoma is a bit sportier than the 4Runner, and both options could have better breaks. Also, the 4Runner may have a quieter interior.
The Tacoma can tow more and store more equipment, but the 4Runner can fit more passengers and could be slightly more comfortable. It also has better off-roading dimensions.
