Friendly Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner


Drivers around Penn Yan, Geneva, and Watkins Glen, NY, are on the hunt for an SUV to help them take unforgettable getaways. The  Jeep Wrangler and 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 Friendly Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram put together a comparison of the Wrangler and the 4Runner. Read on to see what sets these rides apart and contact us if you have any questions.


Wrangler vs 4Runner: Engine Options

2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY When selecting your next SUV, you need your ride to be as daring as you are. With the following powertrain selections in the Jeep Wrangler, you’ll be able to find your ideal blend of power:

Engine Option

Horsepower

Torque (lb-ft)

3.6-liter Pentastar® V6/3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 with Engine Stop/Start (ESS)

285

260

3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6

260

442

2.0-liter Turbo

270

295

You won’t have the option to choose your powertrain with the Toyota 4Runner, though, since it only comes with one motor. You may also notice a difference when it comes to performance, as well, since this singular powertrain tops out at 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.


2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY Roam for Longer

Additionally, if you’re looking for a diesel motor option, you’ll only find one in the Wrangler. Since diesel fuel is denser than traditional fuel, it burns slowly and therefore lasts longer. The result for the Wrangler is an EPA-estimated 22 city/29 highway MPG, helping you stray far from civilization on your next trek.

You’ll want to stay closer to a gas station with the 4Runner, though, since its gas engine only has an EPA-estimated 16 city/19 highway MPG.

Even if you aren’t interested in the perks of a diesel motor, the gas engines in the Wrangler outperform the 4Runner in terms of efficiency:

  • 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 with ESS: EPA-estimated 17 city/23 highway MPG
  • 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6: EPA-estimated 19 city/24 highway MPG
  • 2.0-liter Turbo engine: EPA-estimated 21 city/24 highway MPG

Wrangler vs 4Runner: Off-Road Performance

2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY The Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner are ready for whatever you throw their way with 4-wheel drive (4WD) systems, creating stability through uneasy road conditions. However, the Wrangler takes capability to the next level by offering four 4×4 systems for you to choose from:

  • Command-Trac® 4×4 System: Divides torque evenly between the front and rear axles to help you tackle unpredictable weather conditions and light off-roading.
  • Selec-Trac® Full-Time 4×4 System: Sends torque to the wheels with the most grip for continuous and optimum traction on uneven terrain.
  • Rock-Trac® 4×4 System: Employs a low-gear ratio for low-speed rock crawls with greater control.
  • Rock-Trac® Full-Time 4×4 System: Adds on an active transfer case for optimal traction over changing road conditions.

As you can see, whether you’re an experienced off-road warrior or just want to occasionally head off the paved path, there’s a 4×4 system in the Wrangler for you. Unfortunately, with the 4Runner, there’s only one 4WD system, so you won’t be able to choose the level of ruggedness you need.


2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY Upgrade Your Escapes

When the road gets more challenging, turn to available Selec-Speed® Control systems on these SUVs. This system maintains a low-set speed, so you can devote your full attention to navigating around obstacles in your path. With these advanced technologies by your side in the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner, you’ll have complete confidence on the trickiest of trails.

Despite the aid of this system, your next off-road trek may still be easier in the Wrangler. Through the available Off-Road Pages, you can view vehicle stats­­––like wheel turn, articulation, and transmission temperature––in real time to ensure you’re adjusting your ride to the challenging conditions at hand.

In this SUV, you can also select Off-Road+. When engaged, this system automatically deciphers the type of terrain you’re encountering and then adjusts your throttle, control, and transmission to match. Without either of these helpful features in the 4Runner, you may not be able to optimize your off-road experience.


2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY Wrangler vs 4Runner: Exterior Looks

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.

Choose from three top options: Sky 1-Touch® Power Top, Zipperless Sunrider® Soft Top, and 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, while the Toyota 4Runner features an unmistakable, bold construction, it doesn’t have customizable or removable parts. An available moonroof will let in some sunlight on beautiful summer days, but it’s not the same experience as removing the top entirely and feeling a fresh breeze.


2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner Penn Yan NY Designed for Adventure

In addition to exciting styling that makes you one with nature, you also want to look for an SUV that’s specifically crafted to take on some extreme conditions.

One look at the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner and you know these rides rule the road. With high stances and rugged body construction, they let you know they’re ready for adventure. The 4Runner, for example, measures in at 190.2 inches long and 75.8 inches wide.

However, the smaller body of the Wrangler at 73.9 inches wide and 188.2 inches long makes this SUV easier to maneuver in smaller spaces. This added flexibility can come in handy on the trail.

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 10.8 inches of ground clearance the Wrangler has to offer.


2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Which One Is Best for Your Next Road Trip?

Now that you’ve seen how the 2021 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 Friendly DCJR to meet with a member of our sales team. We’re conveniently located near Penn Yan, Geneva, and Watkins Glen, New York, so call us today to schedule a test drive.


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