What To Know
- The 4Runner excels in off-road capabilities and reliability, while the Forester offers superior on-road handling and a more affordable price point.
- Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the Toyota 4Runner has a slight edge with additional features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
- Both the Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Forester have a reputation for reliability, but the 4Runner is consistently ranked among the most reliable SUVs by J.
When it comes to choosing a vehicle for outdoor adventures, two names stand out: the Toyota 4Runner and the Subaru Forester. Both offer rugged capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced technologies. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of each vehicle to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Capabilities:
Off-Road Prowess:
The 4Runner reigns supreme in off-road prowess with its body-on-frame construction, advanced four-wheel-drive system, and ground clearance of up to 9.6 inches. Its locking rear differential and crawl control feature provide exceptional traction and stability in challenging terrains.
On-Road Handling:
The Forester excels in on-road handling thanks to its unibody construction and responsive steering. Its all-wheel drive system ensures confident grip in all conditions, while its suspension system provides a comfortable ride.
Interior Space and Comfort:
Passenger Capacity:
The 4Runner offers seating for up to seven passengers, while the Forester seats five. Both vehicles provide ample headroom and legroom, making them suitable for families or groups.
Cargo Capacity:
The 4Runner has a spacious cargo area with a maximum capacity of 89.7 cubic feet. The Forester offers 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which is still generous for most outdoor adventures.
Engine and Fuel Economy:
Power and Performance:
The 4Runner is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. The Forester offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Efficiency:
The Forester has a slight edge in fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined compared to the 4Runner’s 20 mpg combined.
Safety Features:
Both the 4Runner and Forester come standard with an array of safety features, including:
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Electronic stability control (ESC)
- Traction control
- Airbags
The 4Runner offers additional safety features such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
Technologies and Convenience:
Infotainment Systems:
The 4Runner features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Forester offers a 6.5-inch touchscreen display with similar smartphone integration features.
Driver Assistance:
The Forester comes standard with a suite of driver assistance technologies called EyeSight, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Reliability and Resale Value:
Reliability:
Both the 4Runner and Forester have a reputation for reliability. J.D. Power consistently ranks the 4Runner among the most reliable SUVs, while Subaru as a brand is known for its overall reliability.
Resale Value:
The 4Runner typically holds its value well, making it a wise investment. The Forester also retains its value reasonably well, but not quite as well as the 4Runner.
Final Thoughts: The Best Choice for Your Adventure
The Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Forester are both excellent choices for outdoor enthusiasts. The 4Runner excels in off-road capabilities and reliability, while the Forester offers superior on-road handling and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which vehicle is better for extreme off-roading?
The Toyota 4Runner is the clear winner for extreme off-roading due to its superior ground clearance, four-wheel-drive system, and locking differentials.
2. Which vehicle has the most cargo space?
The Toyota 4Runner offers a more spacious cargo area with a maximum capacity of 89.7 cubic feet.
3. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Forester has a slight edge in fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg combined compared to the 4Runner’s 20 mpg combined.
4. Which vehicle has better safety features?
Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, but the Toyota 4Runner has a slight edge with additional features like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.
5. Which vehicle is more reliable?
Both the Toyota 4Runner and Subaru Forester have a reputation for reliability, but the 4Runner is consistently ranked among the most reliable SUVs by J.D. Power.