2023 Toyota 4Runner Vs. Toyota Highlander: Specs, Dimensions, & Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Discover How These Two Toyota Midsize SUVs Compare
Drivers or families searching for a new midsize SUV will want to consider our Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner comparison to see how these popular Toyota sport-utes stack up against one another. Selecting between these two well-equipped Toyota SUVs for sale may seem daunting, but with a little research, we're confident you'll find the right option for you and your family.
Continue reading as we compare the 2023 Toyota 4Runner vs. Toyota Highlander to help SUV shoppers like you find the ideal Toyota crossover or SUV to suit your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
2023 Toyota Highlander vs. Toyota 4Runner Dimensions
Let's begin by discussing the exterior and interior dimensions since these are two areas where these Toyota SUVs differ substantially. The 2023 Toyota Highlander measures 194.9 inches long, 76 inches wide, and 68.1 inches tall. In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner stands 71.5 inches tall, 75.8 inches in width, and features a length of 190.2 inches.
Since the new Toyota Highlander is longer than the 4Runner, it can easily accommodate a third row of seats. Its standard three-row seating invites up to eight occupants along for the ride. The Toyota 4Runner offers an optional third row but comes standard with two-row seating for up to five.
Regarding cargo space, the 4Runner impresses with 47.2 cubic feet behind its second row and up to 89.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity. The longer Toyota Highlander offers slightly more standard cargo volume, rated at 48.4 cubic feet, but a bit less in maximum cargo space at 84.3 cubic feet.
| 2023 Toyota 4Runner | 2023 Toyota Highlander | |
| Maximum Cargo Space | 89.7 cubic feet | 84.3 cubic feet |
| Length | 190.2 inches | 194.9 inches |
| Width | 75.8 inches | 76 inches |
| 71.5 inches | 71.5 inches | 68.1 inches |
Toyota 4Runner vs. Highlander Performance Specs and Fuel Efficiency
Confident and dependable performance come standard with the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner SUVs. Still, these midsize sport utility vehicles offer different powertrains, performance specs, and fuel economy ratings, meaning that one might be the better option for your lifestyle.
A 4.0-liter V-6 engine powers every 2023 Toyota 4Runner, providing robust performance for taking on all roads and terrain. Choose from the standard rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive when selecting your ideal new 4Runner SUV. The projected EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2023 Toyota 4Runner peaks at 16/19/17 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1
Shop for a Toyota Highlander midsize crossover SUV, and you'll find a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine under the hood powering the front wheels or all four wheels via an available AWD system. The 2023 Toyota Highlander L offers an impressive projected EPA-estimated 22/29/25 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 rating.
| 2023 Toyota 4Runner | 2023 Toyota Highlander | |
| Engine | 4.0-liter V-6 | 2.4-liter I-4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 270 | 265 |
| Torque | 278 pound-feet | 310 pound-feet |
| Drivetrain | RWD, 4WD | FWD, AWD |
| MPG (City/Highway/Combined) | 16/19/17 MPG 1 | 22/29/25 MPG1 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 gallons | 17.9 gallons |
4Runner vs. Highlander: Interior Features and Technologies
New SUV shoppers will find that the Toyota Highlander and 4Runner models share many similarities inside regarding their features and technologies. Since they're both new Toyota SUVs, they each offer the latest Toyota tech, including advanced driver-assist systems, an intuitive touch-screen interface, embedded navigation, and a rearview backup camera.
However, they have different trim levels, which you will have to explore individually if you want to find which contains heated leather front seating or a heated steering wheel. While they both have the available option of a panoramic moonroof, the slightly longer Highlander can also come with a panoramic glass roof for even more impressive natural light infusion.
Toyota Highlander or Toyota 4Runner: Which Is Right for You?
The team at Tom Wood Auto Group hopes that our Toyota Highlander vs. 4Runner comparison has helped you in your SUV search. Drivers looking for a classically rugged midsize SUV with V-6 power, high ground clearance, and off-road pedigree will likely be attracted to the Toyota 4Runner. Large or growing families might prefer the Toyota Highlander for its smooth and compliant ride, roomy standard three-row interior, and highly efficient performance.
If you happen to be in our area and looking to lease or finance your new vehicle, contact our sales and finance folks for further assistance with your upgrade to a new Toyota SUV.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Toyota Highlander and the 4Runner?
The new Toyota Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV that comes standard with three-row seating for up to eight passengers, while the new Toyota 4Runner midsize SUV features standard five-passenger seating in two rows. These Toyota SUVs also offer different powertrains, with every new Toyota 4Runner powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine and the new Highlander featuring a turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine.
Is a Toyota 4Runner bigger than a Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander is bigger, measuring nearly five inches longer than the Toyota 4Runner. While both of these new Toyota SUV models are offered with three-row seating, only the Highlander comes standard with a third row of seats. If you're looking for the bigger of these two Toyota SUVs for transporting passengers, see the Toyota Highlander. However, the Toyota 4Runner does have a slightly larger maximum cargo capacity.
Which gets better gas mileage: the Toyota Highlander or the 4Runner?
The Toyota Highlander gets better gas mileage than the Toyota 4Runner. While the new Toyota 4Runner for sale features a powerful V-6 engine, the Highlander utilizes a turbocharged four-cylinder engine designed to deliver highly efficient performance. If gas mileage is a crucial factor in your Toyota SUV buying or leasing decision, you will likely prefer the fuel-sipping Toyota Highlander over the 4Runner.
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12023 projected EPA-estimated mpg rating estimates as determined by manufacturer. EPA estimates not available at time of posting. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
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