The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is a stalwart model in the automaker’s SUV lineup, but it was last redesigned for the 2010 model year.
Despite using a 4.0-liter V6 that pales in performance compared to some rivals, it’s still a reliable off-roader with a cult following. The Toyota Sequoia is more updated but it likely appeals to a different crowd.
2024 Toyota Sequoia At a Glance
The 2024 Toyota Sequoia is in its second model of the third generation. Many improvements were recently made to the three-row SUV, including a hybrid powertrain with more torque than most V8-powered rivals. It also gets better fuel economy. Seating can be had for six or seven and buyers have five trim levels to choose from. One of these choices is the off-road-ready TRD Pro. There’s also a luxury-oriented trim called the Capstone at the top of the lineup.
2024 Toyota 4Runner At a Glance
The Toyota 4Runner doesn’t need much introduction as it’s one of the automaker’s most well-known SUVs. It’s extremely reliable and is impressively capable off-road. It features a high ride height and generous cargo volume. Toyota has updated the 4Runner several times since its last redesign in 2010 but has never given it a full redesign. This leaves it still riding on the same platform it shares with the Toyota Tacoma as well as the same 4.0-liter V6 engine.
Performance Comparison
Both SUVs come with a V6 engine and can be had in either 4×2 or 4×4 layouts. The Toyota 4Runner uses a larger V6 that is naturally aspirated and makes 270 horsepower. The Sequoia comes with a smaller 3.4-liter V6, but it uses a hybrid twin-turbo setup that makes 437 horsepower. The Sequoia also generates a lot more torque at 583 pound-feet versus the 4Runner’s 278 pound-feet. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to the wheels for the Sequoia, while a five-speed does the same for the 4Runner.
Off-Road Comparison
The Toyota 4Runner is pretty capable overall. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and carry 1,700 pounds. However, this pales in comparison to the larger Sequoia, which can tow up to 9,520 pounds and carry 1,730 pounds. Both SUVs offer TRD Pro trims with off-road upgrades. However, the 4Runner has more raw capability with 9.6 inches of ground clearance than the Sequoia’s 9.1. The Toyota 4Runner also has the edge with better approach and departure angles.
How To Choose
By most metrics, the Toyota Sequoia is the better choice for most SUV shoppers. It has more modern updates, has better ride quality, and can tow a lot more than the Toyota 4Runner. However, the Sequoia has a much higher price tag with about a $20,000 difference in the TRD Pro and base trims compared to the 4Runner. Both SUVs offer sterling reliability, but the Toyota 4Runner is likely to appeal to buyers who want a more old-school SUV with stronger off-road chops.
In the end, both SUVs are quality choices, but it depends on which features are more important to you.
