2025 Toyota 4Runner vs Jeep Wrangler

There’s a new Toyota 4Runner in town, and it’s going up against some of the top off-roading vehicles in the industry. The 2025 4Runner has a new powertrain, new tech, and an updated look, but how does it compare to the Jeep Wrangler? Take a look at the comparison article that our team at Palestine Toyota, Texas, put together for you.

Overview of Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Wrangler Models

When you think about the 4Runner versus the Wrangler, you probably think of tackling off-road terrain. Both of these SUVs are capable of taking on all kinds of adventures, offering trims with features designed for rough surfaces. But they also have a whole host of modern features, too. 

Performance Comparison

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gas engine churning out 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels in the standard rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration, but four-wheel drive (4WD) is available. The 4WD Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter trims have the i-FORCE MAX powertrain. This adds an electric motor to the four-cylinder gas engine, increasing power output to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.

The Wrangler engine lineup starts with a 3.6-liter V-6 producing 285 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed manual transmission. A 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder generating 270 horsepower is available, or you can get a 470-horsepower 6.4-liter V-8 engine. The available Wrangler 4xe is equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that produces a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. 

For towing some extra gear along, the 4Runner can pull up to 6,000 pounds, which is more than the Wrangler’s maximum of 5,000 pounds with the Rubicon equipped with the V-6 engine or the turbocharged four-cylinder. Other Wrangler four-door configurations have a maximum capacity of 3,500 pounds. 

Off-Road Capabilities

Both the 4Runner and the Wrangler offer impressive off-road capabilities, with the 4Runner TRD Off-Road and Off-Road Premium being the best choice for off-roading fun. These variants come with all-terrain tires, Bilstein off-road shocks, a locking rear differential for maximizing traction on rough terrain, and underbody skid plates to protect important components. The Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road features Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control drive modes that optimize control, no matter what terrain lies ahead. 

The Rubicon is the legendary off-road model in the Wrangler lineup. It has 33-inch all-terrain tires, low-range gearing, and electronic front and rear differentials, along with electronic disconnecting front stabilizer bars for added articulation. Rock rails come standard to help protect the underbody. In a real-world driving comparison, the Toyota 4Runner easily navigates muddy ruts and rocky terrain, making it feel effortless. The Wrangler can also tackle these rugged surfaces, but the ride feels bumpy and rough.

If you’re taking on extreme obstacles, both the 4Runner and Wrangler have locking rear differentials to assist with traction. The 4Runner’s Multi-Terrain Select system includes driving modes for mud, sand, loose rock, moguls, and general rock. The system adjusts the engine throttle and brakes, giving you the traction you need for various terrains. 

Fuel Efficiency and Range

If you travel on the highway or through the city, you can count on an efficient drive in the 4Runner. Fuel economy differs based on the trim and engine, but it breaks down like this:

• i-FORCE 4WD: 19 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway
• i-FORCE 4WD Limited: 20 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway
• 2.4-liter gas engine RWD: 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway
• i-FORCE MAX Hybrid 4WD: 23 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway

The Wrangler’s fuel economy depends on the engine and the model. The most efficient setup is the 4xe plug-in hybrid, which has an EPA-estimated rating of 49 MPGe and can provide up to 22 miles of pure electric range. The Rubicon 392 uses the most gas, with an EPA-estimated rating of 13 mpg combined.

Safety Features

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner comes loaded with standard driver safety aids. The list includes:

• Front collision mitigation
• Adaptive cruise control 
• Lane-keep assist
• Traffic jam assist
• Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert 

Some safety systems that are available as options or standard on the higher trims include a 360-degree surround-view camera system, low-speed and reverse automatic braking, and a head-up display. 

The Wrangler doesn’t have as many standard safety features as the 4Runner, but depending on the trim level, you can get advanced driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. The Rubicon X comes with rear parking sensors and a forward-facing camera for off-road driving, which is an option in some trims.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Staying connected in the 4Runner is easy. The entry-level SR5 features an 8-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an eight-speaker stereo system. The TRD Sport adds a wireless charging pad and two household-style power outlets. 

Toyota’s digital smartphone key capability is standard in the Platinum and above and allows you to use your phone to lock and unlock the doors, start the engine, and drive the 4Runner. If someone needs to borrow your vehicle, you can share the key with up to seven drivers. 

The Wrangler 4xe has a 12.3-inch touch screen to house its infotainment system, and it also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Uconnect infotainment system features off-road guides, a navigation system with turn-by-turn directions, and even trail maps to make your adventure go smoothly no matter where you’re headed. 

 Is It Time For Some Off-Road Fun?

If you’re ready to find the right vehicle for your off-road adventures, visit Palestine Toyota for a closer look at the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and see why it’s your best choice. Our sales team can answer your questions about the 4Runner, its capabilities, features, and equipment, and get you out on the road for a test drive. Stop by and see us today, or call us at 903-480-9390. We can’t wait to show you what we’ve got.