2021 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2021 Toyota RAV4
The 4Runner and the Rav4 are among the most popular Toyota models of 2021. The biggest difference between the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and the 2021 Toyota Rav4 is the size. The compact Rav4 is best suited for smaller families, while larger families will want to consider the 4Runner
Comparing the 4Runner and Rav4
If you are flexible on the size, both the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and the RAV4 have a lot to offer in terms of performance on the road and off-road. Plus, they come packed with convenience and comfort features that Toyota users have come to expect. Read on to learn more!
Price
The cost of a vehicle is usually one of the top concerns for families. But no matter your budget, Toyota usually has something to offer in your price range. The 2021 Toyota 4Runner and the 2021 Toyota RAV4 offer a clear difference in price but it’s what you are getting for your money that counts.
The mid-size 2021 Toyota 4Runner starts at $36,765. Meanwhile, the 2021 Toyota Rav4 starts at $26,150, which is over a $10K difference in price. Upgrading your vehicle with extra features and engine upgrades can raise the price of either model. The TRD Pro trim starts at $50,475 on the 4Runner and on the RAV4 it’s just $35,880.
Performance
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner features a 4.0-liter V6 engine that generates an impressive 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The RAV4, on the other hand, features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates just 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain options for the vehicles include the standard rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive on the 4Runner, or rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive with the Rav4. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard in the 4Runner and an eight-speed is standard in the RAV4.
The 4Runner is generally well-suited for off-road driving, but it can handle city driving well enough. Most of the available Rav4 trims are up to the task in terms of off-road driving, except for the TRD Pro trim. With that said, if you are choosing a model solely on performance, your safest bet would be the highest-end Rav4 trim that will give you the best of both worlds – on- and off-road.
Fuel Economy
With gas prices so high, fuel economy is one of drivers’ greatest concerns. So, which one has the best fuel economy between the 4Runner and the RAV4? The choice is clear. At 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, the 4Runner is actually one of the worst in its class when it comes to fuel economy. The RAV4 fares far better, getting 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Features
Features are an important part of every Toyota model, as the automaker usually doesn’t hold back in this regard. The Toyota RAV4 comes equipped with a 7-inch touch screen, while the 4Runner features a slightly larger 8-inch touch screen. They both feature Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa smartphone integration, as well as features like satellite radio and Bluetooth.
The 4Runner does offer more USB ports (four to be exact), an eight-speaker audio system versus the six-speaker system in the RAV4, and a 120-volt outlet not featured in the RAV4. Many of these features can be upgraded in either model including the vehicles’ displays and audio systems.
Both the Toyota RAV$ and the 4Runner offer safety features like a rearview backup camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Available safety features for the RAV4 include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, parking sensors, and a surround-view parking camera.
The RAV4 and the 4Runner both offer spectacular interiors. Of course, you’ll be able to fit more passengers in the 4Runner (up to seven), compared to the RAV4 which seats five. Cloth upholstery is standard in both models, but you’ll only get standard power-adjustability with the 4Runner. When it comes to cargo space, you can get up to 88.8 cubic feet in the 4Runner and 69.8 cubic feet in the RAV4.
Final Thoughts
Both the 4Runner and RAV4 offer decent performance on the road and off. However, you’ll find that the RAV4 is a much more practical option due to its fuel economy. But if you need seating for up to seven passengers, the 4Runner is going to be the more practical option for your family. Either way, you’ll be graced with great features and a comfortable interior, particularly if you are willing to put a little more money down for your vehicle.
