2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Cadillac Escalade

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since 2010. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged, stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this tough persona with skid plates, all-terrain tires, and a robust roof rack. Inside, the 4Runner showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment screen. While some might find its retro vibe charming, others could mistake it for a well-kept older model.

In contrast, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade embraced modern luxury with a refreshed design that set it apart from its GM siblings. The new front end, with vertical headlights and massive 24-inch wheels, gave it a commanding presence. Inside, Cadillac focused on high-tech sophistication, replacing the previous display with a 55-inch screen spanning the dashboard. The Escalade offered a luxurious interior with real leather options and curated motifs, making it hard to believe it shared a platform with other GM SUVs.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While its power was adequate for off-roading, the five-speed automatic transmission limited its on-road performance. The TRD Pro model came with standard 4WD and a two-speed transfer case, but the 4Runner felt sluggish on highways, with noticeable body roll and a noisy engine. Its soft suspension was great for off-road articulation but resulted in a bouncy ride on paved roads.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade offered a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, while the Escalade-V boasted a supercharged version with 682 hp. The 10-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and efficient cruising. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4WD optional, and the Escalade-V featured a performance-oriented AWD system. Despite its power, the Escalade's handling couldn't match luxury rivals, though its ride quality was impressive for a body-on-frame SUV. The brakes, however, lacked confidence, with an optional Brembo upgrade available.

The 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls and excellent visibility. It offered ample space for front passengers, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel lacking in adjustment. The second row provided good legroom, but headroom was limited. Cargo space was generous, with up to 89.7 cubic feet available, though accessing it required manual seat adjustments. The 4Runner's sliding rear window and party speakers added unique functionality.

The Escalade, available in standard and extended ESV versions, provided abundant space, especially in the ESV's third row. It offered best-in-class cargo capacity, with power-folding seats and a power liftgate for convenience. The Escalade's towing capacity reached 8,100 pounds, though it lacked some advanced towing aids found in competitors. Its interior was luxurious, with options for second-row captain’s chairs and extensive creature comforts.

The 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its small screen and lack of off-road apps were drawbacks. The TRD Pro's JBL audio system was powerful but often drowned out by road noise. Additional terrain controls were available, though their pictogram labels required consulting the manual.

The Escalade's tech was cutting-edge, with a 55-inch display integrating multiple functions. It retained wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 19-speaker AKG audio system standard and a 36-speaker upgrade available. The interface was user-friendly, though some controls were touch-based. The optional Executive Second Row Package added screens and controls for rear passengers, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA and varied scores from IIHS. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and a blind-spot monitor, though some alerts were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade came with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and Super Cruise for hands-free driving. The Safety Alert Seat provided tactile warnings, and teen-driver monitoring was available. Crash-test ratings were not yet published.