These two legendary icons created cult followings lengthy earlier than Tesla made such a factor, however for very completely different causes. The 4Runner’s identified for being ridiculously dependable whereas the Wrangler is infinitely customizable and generally is a boulder-basher or solar chaser with detachable doorways and roof.

For the way completely different they’re, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and 2021 Jeep Wrangler are an in depth match relating to their robust seems, all-around functionality, and creature comforts. A lot so that they have the identical TCC Ranking of 5.2 out of 10.

MORE: Learn our 2021 Toyota 4Runner and 2021 Jeep Wrangler full evaluations

The Toyota 4Runner matches its robust popularity with rugged seems punctuated by an enormous maw, broad shoulders, and blocky ends. Totally different trims get completely different therapies: chrome glints from the upscale 4Runner Restricted, whereas the 4Runner TRD variations darken the brute ute into one thing extra sinister.

Inside, the traditional 4Runner wears low cost, onerous plastic that offends when costs can attain $50,000. The LCD show display for the local weather management system most likely got here from the ‘90s. The 2021 4Runner is an historic car beneath—it was final comprehensively up to date in 2009.

2021 Toyota 4Runner

An aged however dependable 4.0-liter V-6 makes 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque below the hood of the 4Runner. A neolithic 5-speed automated transmission doles out energy to the rear or all 4 wheels. Nearly the whole lot within the 4Runner prioritizes brute-force off-roading, all the way down to the Fox shocks and lifted suspension on TRD Professional fashions that may go nearly anyplace. However, Toyota slaps customers within the face by equipping the most costly, off-road-focused fashions with part-time four-wheel drive as a substitute of full-time four-wheel drive just like the bigger Land Cruiser or costlier Lexus GX.

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

Redesigned for 2019 with a slew of creature comforts and security techniques, the Jeep Wrangler prides itself on its newness, and annually Jeep has added extra highly effective and gas environment friendly powertrains.

The boxy Jeep Wrangler gained’t be confused with anything on the highway, however the brand new Jeep is a bit more user-friendly than older fashions. The doorways and roof nonetheless come off with only a handful of instruments and about half an hour of storage time. It’s one of many greatest promoting factors of the Wrangler over the 4Runner on the highway. The brand new replace added much-needed security techniques and inside updates, however the seems largely haven’t modified apart from obtainable trendy LED lighting.

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

Underneath the hoods of most Wranglers is a 3.6-liter V-6 that makes 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A plucky turbo-4 is accessible (and it’s good) or a 3.0-liter turbodiesel is the off-roading and mileage champ (nevertheless it’s $4,000 extra and that’s not prone to be recouped in gas financial savings any time quickly). A plug-in hybrid offers the power for some silent off-roading with as much as 22 miles of all-electric vary whereas a thirsty 470-hp 6.2-liter V-8 has joined the lineup. The three.6-liter V-6 could be paired to a 6-speed guide transmission for hardcore followers in any other case it’s an 8-speed automated with each different engine. The Wrangler’s roster of powertrains is extra refined and way more superior.

2021 Toyota 4Runner

4 adults match into the Wrangler and 4Runner, though leg room isn’t distinctive in both. The 4Runner is accessible with an elective third row, however we’d skip it because it each raises the load flooring and is ineffective for hauling folks.

The 4Runner is healthier at holding cargo; with the rear seats up it holds greater than 46 cubic ft in comparison with the Wrangler’s 31 cubic ft.

Full crash-test outcomes aren’t in for the Wrangler however early outcomes aren’t spectacular, together with a uncommon three-star rating from the NHTSA for rollover crash security. The 4Runner doesn’t excel both. Its construction is comparatively previous, however Toyota does make normal automated emergency braking that the Jeep skips on many trims.

2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

Not a lot on both SUV is reasonable, both. Boxy off-roaders just like the 4Runner and Wrangler are scorching—they’re ATMs for sellers and automakers. It’s not out of line for Rubicon Wranglers to price greater than $60,000; a 4Runner TRD Professional instructions greater than $50,000, too.

There’s hardly a worth to be present in both truck, however our options rating favors the 4Runner for higher normal gear on decrease, less-expensive trims, however Wranglers could be optioned as much as characteristic a incredible 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It’s not simply among the finest within the enterprise, it flat out embarasses the consumer interface within the 4Runner.

Ultimately, the Wrangler wins because it’s merely the extra trendy car with an array of powertrain choices and all the potential. The one motive its TCC Ranking matches that of the 4Runner is the bottom mannequin is de facto easy with roll-up home windows, no air-con, and no energy locks. With just a few choices it’s the very best retro, boxy off-roader we don’t want however form of need with the doorways on or off.