Drivers around Lansing, East Lansing, and Williamston, MI are on the hunt for an SUV to help them take unforgettable getaways. The Jeep Wrangler and the Toyota 4Runner are two desirable options, but which one is better suited to your specific needs?
To help you answer this question, the team at LaFontaine CDJR of Lansing has put together a comparison of the Wrangler and the 4Runner. Read on to see what sets these rides apart!
MAX HORSEPOWER
EPA-ESTIMATED MPG
MAX GROUND CLEARANCE
When selecting your next SUV, you need a ride that’s as daring as you are. You need a vehicle that makes you feel the beat of your heart in your chest every time you get behind the wheel. You need a companion that energizes your earliest and longest adventures. You need an off-roader that’s ready to get dirty and to kick up some dust. You need an adventurer that offers the power of choice.
The Jeep Wrangler can do all that—and then some.
With the following four powertrain selections in the Jeep Wrangler, you’ll be able to find your ideal blend of power:
Horsepower |
Engine Option
|
Torque (lb-ft)
|
|---|---|---|
| 285 | 3.6L Pentastar® V6 | 260 |
| 270 | 2.0L Turbo | 295 |
| 375 | 2.0L I4 PHEV | 470 |
| 470 | 6.4L HEMI® V8 | 470 |
You won’t have the option to choose your powertrain with the Toyota 4Runner, though, since it only comes with one standard engine. Plus, it tops out at just 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.
The Wrangler is also the more efficient SUV with a base EPA-estimated 17 city/23 highway MPG rating. You’ll need to make more frequent fill-ups with the 4Runner, though, since its gas engine only yields an EPA-estimated 16 city/19 highway MPG.
If you’re looking to maximize your MPG with a plug-in hybrid option, you’ll only find one in the Wrangler. It gets an EPA-estimated 49 combined MPGe, which will enable you to stray far from civilization on your next trek.
The Jeep Wrangler and the Toyota 4Runner are ready for whatever you throw their way with their 4-wheel drive (4WD) systems, creating stability through uneasy road conditions. With solid footing on either model, no uneven trail, water crossing, or wooded passageway will stand in your way. However, for complete confidence in Mother Nature’s playground, turn to the Wrangler’s intuitive off-road cruise control system.
The Wrangler takes capability to the next level by offering multiple 4×4 systems to choose from:
- Command-Trac® 4×4 System
- Selec-Trac® 4×4 System
- Rock-Trac® 4×4 System
The 4Runner, on the other hand, offers a part-time and a full-time 4-wheel drive system to match your adventure level.
When the road gets more challenging, turn to available off-road cruise control systems in these SUVs for complete confidence on the trickiest of trails.
Your next off-road trek may still be easier in the Wrangler thanks to the available Off-Road Plus Mode. When engaged, this system automatically deciphers the type of terrain you’re encountering and adjusts throttle, traction control, and transmission to match.
The 4Runner doesn’t offer a feature like this, so you may not be able to optimize your off-road experience.
The biggest aspect that sets these two SUVs apart is their appearance. Since its debut in 1986, the Wrangler has been known for its unique exterior. With its signature build, charismatic grille, and higher ride height, the Wrangler continues to make its mark on and off the road.
With the addition of a removable top, doors, and windshield, the Wrangler enables you to meet the elements head on. Thanks to these open-air features, the Jeep can transform your experience from one you simply drive through to one you experience inside and out.
You’ll have the open-air freedom of several top options in the Wrangler, including:
- Sky 1-Touch® Power Top
- Sunrider® Soft Top
- Sunrider® Hard Top
- Freedom Top® 3-Piece Hardtop
You can remove the top entirely––along with the doors, and you can fold down the windshield––to experience a unique open-air drive that allows you to engage more with your off-road trek.
On the other hand, the Toyota 4Runner only features an available moonroof. While it will let in some sunlight on beautiful days, it’s not the same experience as removing the top entirely and having uninhibited skyward views.
One look at the Jeep Wrangler and the Toyota 4Runner and you know these rides rule the road. With their high stances and rugged body construction, they let you know they’re ready for adventure.
The 4Runner rises off the ground with 9.6 inches of ground clearance, helping you sail over rocks and small branches in your path. If you really want to crawl over boulders, though, you’ll probably prefer the 12.9 inches of ground clearance that the Wrangler has to offer.
Now that you’ve seen how the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner fare when they go head-to-head, you may be interested in learning more about the Wrangler.
Stop by the showroom at LaFontaine CDJR of Lansing, located near Lansing, East Lansing, and Williamston, MI, to schedule a test drive!
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new Wrangler for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
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