Toyota’s 4runner has been around since the 1980s, and while the car hasn’t undergone any drastic updates since then, it’s still one of the most unique vehicles on the road to this day. And cars that look like 4runners give a great deal.

Since Toyota only builds a 4runner every few years, many people don’t realize they’re actually looking at a 4runner when they see one on the street or parked at a gas station.

Although the Toyota 4runner has been around since 1984, its boxy yet rugged design hasn’t gone out of style. You’ll still see plenty of vehicles on the roads today, so it’s no wonder manufacturers have chosen to take inspiration from this classic SUV. 

If you’re feeling nostalgic or looking for something akin to the 4runner sports car, check out these 8 Cars That Look Like 4Runners That Will Make You Look Twice!

2024 Toyota 4Runner Review

Unlike most mid-size SUVs, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner looks more like a truck than a car. The engine, suspension design, and frame are shared with the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, giving the 4Runner an advantage when tackling rough terrain. 

For the 2024 model year, Toyota 4runners come with  4.0-liter V-6 engines that produce 27o horsepower to give real off roading experience to you. It also gives the 4Runner solid towing capacity and the kind of overall toughness that makes it a favorite with owners who spend as much time on the trails as they do on the streets.

Driving the Toyota 4Runner 2024 on the road is tolerably comfortable, but almost all of its competitors are more comfortable cars driving on paved roads. 

The ride is tough on bumpy roads, and the body roll is significant on tight corners. This is a 3-row SUV that drives a lot more like a truck than its more car-like competitors. 

Toyota has done a good job of keeping the 4Runner up to date in terms of the infotainment system and safety features, but even the most expensive trim levels lack the luxurious appearance of many mid-size SUVs.

Specifications

• MSRP: From $40,705
• MPG: 16 city / 19 highway
• Engine: 4.0 L V6
• Horsepower: 270 hp
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic

8 Top Rated Cars Similar to 4Runners Right Now

There’s something oddly compelling about cars that seem to function as SUVs. Maybe it’s the 4runner’s ruggedness that makes you think you could take this car anywhere! Or maybe it’s just the lure of having a vehicle that looks like something out of nature. 

Whatever the reason, there are plenty of cars out that are competitors to Toyota 4runners, just begging to be taken on your next outdoor adventure. Check them out

1. 2024 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is one of the best-selling midsize crossovers on the market. It’s also one of the few options if you want to drive something similar to a 4runner without paying all that cash. 

The 2024 Toyota Highlander is available in 5 trim levels: LE, XLE, XSE, Limited and platinum. The LE starts at $39,270 while the XLE starts at $42,420. If you’re looking for additional features, it may be worth going for the more expensive model. 

But both models offer plenty of cargo space and comfortable seating, not to mention a very good safety rating. And with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, your phone is always connected. If you’re looking for an SUV that drives well without breaking the bank, this is definitely the car for you!

2. 2024 Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler and Toyota 4Runner are long-standing names in the Off-Road Hall of Fame. Both vehicles can be seen ripping apart MOABs with equal ease. They’re not ideal family vehicles, they’re the toughest options in the midsize SUV segment. 

They are loud, slow, and uncomfortable. They drive poorly, drink a lot of fuel, and have little interest in comfort and convenience. Both automakers adorn low-tech and high-tech hardware to go anywhere in the toughest guises. 

Both the 4Runner TRD Pro and Wrangler Rubicon feature a two-speed transfer case, locking rear differentials, and electronically switchable stabilizer bars. But again, the Wrangler has an edge with a limited-slip differential and larger off-road tires that help it negotiate obstacles more easily.

3. 2024 Ford Explorer

If you’re looking for an SUV that offers high performance and versatility for even the busiest lifestyle, then the 2024 Ford Explorer is a great option. It includes comfort and convenience features designed to suit everything from your daily commute to the longest family outing. 

Both SUVs offer built-in navigation and enhanced stereo systems. However, the Explorer also comes with a rear-seat entertainment system. 

Additionally, both SUVs come standard with Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. 4Runner offers adaptive cruise control as standard, and Explorer comes standard with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

4. 2024 Subaru Outback

If you’re looking for a little adventure or just want a capable and comfortable SUV to fit the family, consider the Subaru Outback. Both the Outback and 4Runner are roomy enough for five passengers. 

The Toyota also comes with a third row of seats in some configurations, seating a total of seven people. Just know that the third row is cramped and best reserved for small children.While driving, the Subaru Outback is quieter and more comfortable than the Toyota 4Runner. 

Steering and handling are also more precise. The Toyota is less fun in windy settings and has a shaky steering feel at highway speeds. On the Subaru, however, you can add a roof rack, making it easy to add bikes or kayaks.

5. 2024 Nissan Pathfinder

Both the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder and 2024 Toyota 4Runner are three-row SUVs that appeal to drivers with families. While the 2024 Toyota 4Runner can only seat up to seven passengers, the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder can seat up to eight passengers in certain configurations. 

Even when it comes to on-road performance, the Nissan Pathfinder has a little more to offer than the Toyota 4Runner. Performance is an important aspect of SUVs. Although both the Pathfinder and Toyota 4Runner have V6 engines, the Nissan Pathfinder offers 284 horsepower more than the 4Runner’s 270. 

This engine is equipped with an XTRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT) system that offers smooth automatic shifting and optimal efficiency. Pathfinder offers drivers additional ways to personalize their rides for themselves and their passengers, making long road trips feel more comfortable.

6. 2024 Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 and Toyota 4Runner are two popular Irmo SUVs that offer all-wheel drive and ample cargo space. The Toyota 4Runner offers more power and available space, but the Toyota RAV4 offers better fuel economy while offering excellent performance capabilities. 

The 4Runner runs on gasoline and has a 4.0-liter V6 engine, while the Rav4 has a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. It’s no surprise that the former makes 270 hp, about seventy more than the latter’s 203 hp, given these kinds of engine differences. 

Both the 2024 Toyota 4Runner and Toyota RAV4 seat five passengers, but the 4Runner can be configured with seven seats. As a result, the RAV4 offers 37.6 to 37.5 cubic feet of rear-seat storage space. That’s with a maximum capacity of 69.8 cubic feet.

7. 2024 Kia Telluride

Both the 4Runner and Telluride are classified as full-size SUVs with three rows of seats, so their interior dimensions are similar. Again, there are some trade offs to consider when it comes to interior size. 

For example, the Telluride has slightly more headroom in the first row and legroom in the second row, but the 4Runner has the upper hand when it comes to front-row legroom and third-row shoulder room. 

If you choose the Kia Telluride 2024, for example, you will get a more powerful engine which, paradoxically, is also more economical. You get more seating for your passengers and more space for them to stretch out and enjoy the views as you go places other crossovers can’t. 

Inside you’ll be more than comfortable, but thanks to the standard 8″ touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, you’ll have loads of entertainment and information right where you need it.

8. 2024 Honda Passport

The vehicle interior is one of the important features that you want. While both the Honda Passport and Toyota Runner4 offer plenty of space, if you’re looking to expand your interior space as much as possible, the Passport may be your best bet. 

For example, the Passport offers more headroom in the front by 0.8 inches and more legroom in the rear by an impressive 6.7 inches. If you ever ride with adults or big kids in the back seat, they’re sure to appreciate the Passport’s spaciousness. 

While the 4Runner has a lot going for it, overall the Honda Passport seems to be the best option if you’re looking for a midsize SUV with ample interior space and advanced safety features.

FAQ

Final Thought

While the eight cars listed above are the best alternatives to the Toyota 4runner, they each have their own pros and cons. Someone who thinks the Jeep Wrangler is the best solution might not even consider going with the Nissan Pathfinder. 

As a buyer, you need to decide which car is best for you. Based on these parameters, car owners can weigh their options.