2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, maintained a rugged charm with its two-box body design, flared fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches. Its appearance was more utilitarian than attractive, with most versions adopting a bold, aggressive front. The 4Runner's design had aged well, offering timeless styling and undeniable utility. It was available in various trims, including SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, with special editions like the Trail Special Edition. The interior featured hard plastics, a traditional dashboard with large knobs and buttons, and a manual air conditioning system, emphasizing simplicity and durability.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid presented a more modern and distinctive look. Its blunt and bulbous nose, along with black windshield pillars, gave it a unique appearance. The Highlander Hybrid was available in trims like LE, XLE, Limited, and Platinum, with the hybrid powertrain as an option. The interior offered a more upscale feel with leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a surround-view camera system. However, the cabin's design had some drawbacks, such as reflections on sunny days and a busy appearance at night.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was built for off-road adventures, equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD drivetrain. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its A-Trac traction control system and optional features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, it felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Fuel efficiency was a concern, with an EPA rating of 17 mpg combined.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, prioritized fuel efficiency with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and hybrid powertrain, delivering 243 horsepower. It achieved an impressive 36 mpg in combined driving. While the Highlander Hybrid offered adequate power for everyday driving, it lacked excitement and struggled on hilly terrain. The steering was lifeless, and the ride could be sloppy on uneven roads. However, it excelled in providing a smooth and quiet ride on highways, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with supportive front and rear seats. It provided ample legroom and visibility, along with features like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The sliding cargo deck was a practical addition, though it reduced cargo volume. With up to 89.7 cubic feet of cargo space, the 4Runner was well-suited for adventures.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort with features like power-adjustable seats, leather upholstery, and heated and ventilated front seats. While the second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, the third-row seat was cramped and uncomfortable. Cargo space was generous, with up to 84.3 cubic feet available. However, storage options were less accommodating compared to the previous generation.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The premium audio upgrade added features like dynamic navigation and voice recognition. While the system was user-friendly, it lacked sophistication.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a more advanced infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, JBL premium audio, and navigation. It offered a range of connected services and a user-friendly interface. The Highlander also included features like Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering basic safety features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Its safety ratings reflected its age, with some areas needing improvement.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid boasted Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included advanced features like intersection support and emergency steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Highlander received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS.