Can’t make up your mind between a pickup or an SUV? Toyota offers a solution with its oldest and newest off-road capable models.
The revamped 2024 Toyota Tacoma makes a grand entrance with a full redesign, its first since 2016, overshadowing the aging 2024 Toyota 4Runner. The 4Runner, due for a redesign in 2025, is the last of Toyota’s truck-based vehicles to receive updates following recent revamps of the Tundra full-size pickup truck, the Sequoia full-size SUV, and the revival of the Land Cruiser. The revered 4Runner, one of the few genuine body-on-frame SUVs on the market, has not seen a redesign since 2010, but that is also part of its appeal.
The contrast in their TCC Ratings highlights the distinction between old and new. For buyers not seeking the latest technology but valuing Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the 4Runner appears to be the obvious selection. On the other hand, a glance at the new Tacoma reveals all the features you would miss out on, and that’s not limited to just a truck bed. So, which one suits you better?
Toyota 4Runner versus Tacoma trims and pricing
- The base 4Runner SR5 is priced at $42,100
- Opting for a Tacoma SR with a regular cab and 6-foot bed will set you back $32,995
- Top choices: Tacoma TRD Sport, 4Runner TRD Off Road
Both the Tacoma and 4Runner are offered in SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro variants, although the Tacoma broadens this range with a base SR grade and a base TRD PreRunner. A Tacoma XtraCab sold on SR, SR5, and TRD PreRunner models may be misleading, as it features only two seats and no rear seats, and is compatible solely with the 6-foot bed.
Both the Tacoma and 4Runner come equipped with 8.0-inch touchscreens featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless in the Tacoma), power amenities, and cruise control. The Tacoma boasts a more contemporary array of options, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, cooled seats, and other modern conveniences. Both trucks include a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty with two years or 25,000 miles of scheduled maintenance.
How much does a Toyota Tacoma cost? Which Tacoma is the best choice?
Upgrading from the XtraCab to a proper double cab with five seats and a 5-foot bed adds an extra $2,200, pushing the Tacoma SR price above $35,000. This price range becomes costly for a basic work truck, even with the addition of a new 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine. Including four-wheel drive will cost an additional $3,200. If you prefer at least the extended cab, consider the $41,000 TRD Sport for the optimal equilibrium of features and value.
How much is a Toyota 4Runner? Which variant of the Toyota 4Runner should I opt for?
If you prioritize the 4Runner for its enhanced off-road capabilities compared to other SUVs, then we recommend a TRD model, specifically the 4Runner TRD Off Road. It comes with a rear differential and low-range gearbox, akin to the Tacoma TRD Pro, and offers the option to upgrade with a leather interior or a suspension featuring electronic anti-roll bars. Priced at $46,000, it includes four-wheel drive with a 2-speed transfer case.
Winner: Toyota 4Runner; the new Tacoma has become pricey.
Toyota 4Runner versus Tacoma performance
The Tacoma offers two 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine choices
The 4Runner persists with a 270-hp 4.0-liter V-6 engine mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission
Consider at least TRD Off-Road models for enhanced trail capability
Are the Tacoma and 4Runner equipped with 4WD?
Rear-wheel drive comes standard on both models, but this feature will cost you an additional $3,200 on the Tacoma and $1,885 on the 4Runner. It’s standard on 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro variants, with the option to upgrade these models with an electronic disconnecting anti-roll bar. The Tacoma provides more variety, such as the full-time all-wheel-drive system on Tacoma Limited hybrid models. The Tacoma hybrid variants, labeled i-Force Max, are equipped with a standard part-time 4WD system featuring a center differential lock on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro grades.
How capable is the Toyota Tacoma?
Despite bidding farewell to the V-6 engine, the Tacoma now offers two 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine choices for improved efficiency and power. The base engine incorporated in SR trims is a detuned 2.4-liter turbo-4 generating 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque with an agile 8-speed automatic transmission. Most buyers will prefer the upgraded turbo-4 adopted from the Toyota Highlander SUV, delivering 278 hp and 317 lb-ft with the 8-speed automatic. While a 6-speed manual transmission is available with the extended cab (referred to as Double Cab by Toyota), it’s limited to 270 hp and 310 lb-ft to prevent axle windup. Trucks featuring the superior turbo-4 boast a progressive throttle and brake response, ensuring smoother city driving. Extended cab models also benefit from a multilink rear suspension setup, which reduces bouncing in the empty truck bed and enhances passenger comfort.
How does the Toyota Tacoma hybrid perform?
Known as i-Force Max, the hybrid model incorporates a 48-hp permanent magnet synchronous motor with the turbo-4 engine, achieving 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. The focus of this powertrain is more on off-road capabilities than fuel efficiency, with the TRD Pro variant adding suspension enhancements and all-terrain tires to bolster its off-road prowess, while the Trailhunter model is equipped with features ideal for rock crawling.
Both the 4Runner and Tacoma are available in trims catering to luxury needs as well as trims emphasizing hardcore off-roading aspects, including low-range gearboxes, locking differentials, and robust tires on TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models. Toyota presents both trucks in Limited trim levels aspiring towards luxury, however, neither achieves a truly luxurious interior. Their peak performance is showcased in TRD Off-Road and Pro versions, thriving on challenging remote terrains.
How capable is the Toyota 4Runner?
The 4Runner feels sluggish on roads and exhibits more wander on highways compared to crossover SUVs, demanding enhanced corrections and driver attention. Equipped with a 270-hp 4.0-liter V-6 engine, the 4Runner maintains its enduring reputation but struggles with efficiency when pitted against rivals. Coupled with a 5-speed automatic transmission, it falls behind in performance and maneuvers similar to a traditional truck.
Winner: Tacoma.
Tacoma turbo-4s can tow 6,500 pounds; whereas the hybrid has a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The 4Runner can tow up to 5,000 pounds, similar to many other modern SUVs
The Tacoma XtraCab with a 6-foot cab leads in towing capacity, rated at 6,500 pounds. The extended cab versions drop slightly to 6,300 pounds, while the hybrid model is rated at 6,000 pounds. All are suitable for towing watercraft and small trailers. However, for those seeking additional power, the XtraCab is the best choice. Conversely, the payload differs, with hybrids capable of carrying around 1,680 pounds, whereas other 5-foot-bed models can carry up to 1,610 pounds. The XtraCab takes a substantial drop to 1,230 pounds. On the other hand, the heavier 4Runner can tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds, a capacity comparable to most unibody crossover SUVs in this segment. Its payload can accommodate up to seven individuals and their belongings.
Winner: Tacoma.
Toyota 4Runner compared to Tacoma in terms of fuel efficiency
The 4Runner has fuel consumption rates of 16 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined with rear- or all-wheel drive
The Tacoma hybrid models with 4WD achieve 20/26/23 mpg, equivalent to the XtraCab turbo-4 with RWD. Tacoma 4WD models offer a combined fuel efficiency of 21 mpg. Tacoma 4WD with manual transmission delivers 20 mpg combined
Toyota does not prioritize the most luxurious interiors for the Tacoma and 4Runner. While the 4Runner boasts comfortable seats and good interior space, it lacks an open bed in the back. With the second row of seats in place, the 4Runner provides 48 cubic feet of cargo space. An optional third row can be added for an additional $305, but it may be uncomfortable and cramped.
The Tacoma’s seats are slightly firm, rear legroom is limited even in models with four full doors, and headroom is inadequate. The pickup’s bed space is constrained, suitable only for clearance in tight parking garages or under bridges. It comes with either a 5-foot or 6-foot bed, complemented by practical accessories like tie-downs, extra lighting, and bed liners.
Winner: Tie, balancing the 4Runner’s passenger comfort against the Tacoma’s practical bed features.
Both vehicles come equipped with a robust set of standard active safety features, such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, active lane control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitors. The Tacoma benefits from nearly a decade of safety system advancements.
While the NHTSA has not yet evaluated it, the Tacoma has been named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS due to its “Good” crash ratings and the effectiveness of its standard safety systems. On the other hand, the 4Runner received a “Marginal” rating from the IIHS for driver-side protection in a simulated crash with a tree or light pole, and the NHTSA awarded it only four out of five stars.
Winner: Tacoma.
Which Toyota model is more suitable for you?
The 4Runner, being 15 years old, displays signs of aging. The upcoming redesigned 2025 4Runner is anticipated to address its limitations. Presently, it holds a modest TCC Rating of 4.8 out of 10. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma benefits from hybrid powertrains, favorable safety ratings, and modern technology, albeit at a slightly higher price point for a midsize pickup truck. It receives a rating of 6.3 out of 10.
We recommend considering the new model, although we acknowledge the appeal of one of the last traditional SUVs before the inevitable digital transformation.
Image Source: Yury Stroykin / Shutterstock
