2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Audi Q5

The 2021 Audi Q5 was a sharp-looking crossover SUV that embodied the Audi design language while maintaining its unique character. It featured an expressive front with LED headlights and a prominent Singleframe grille, emphasizing width with horizontal elements. The body showcased crisp character lines, and the rear was marked by bold taillights, giving it a classy and modern appearance. The plug-in hybrid version, with S-Line trim pieces and enhancements, stood out even more, offering standard 19-inch wheels or optional 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Q5 was equally classy and modern, with a focus on technology without clutter. The interior boasted high-quality materials, including real wood and metal, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen positioned for optimal driver visibility. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner had not seen a redesign in over a decade, yet its two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches maintained a timeless and utilitarian style. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's design was functional, with the Limited trim being an exception with its chrome accents. The 4Runner was available in various trims, including Trail and SR5, with options for TRD Off Road, Limited, Venture, Nightshade, and TRD Pro packages. The interior was rugged, with hard plastic surfaces and a dashboard featuring large knobs and buttons. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design was appreciated for its simplicity and durability, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a long-lasting vehicle.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience with an additional 114 horsepower and 96 pound-feet of torque from a 14.1-kWh battery, resulting in a total output of 362 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the Q5 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, with impressive fuel efficiency of 4.7 litres-equivalent per 100 km combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with full-time Quattro AWD and offered various driving modes, including battery-only and hybrid modes. The vehicle's handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, was designed for off-road adventures. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system. The 4Runner excelled off-road, thanks to its A-Trac traction control system and optional TRD Off-Road, Venture, or TRD Pro packages, which added features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, but it required frequent fuel stops, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-balanced interior with 710 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and optional ventilation. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly arranged storage spaces and cupholders.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's high ground clearance made entry challenging for shorter individuals, but once inside, it provided comfortable seating with good support. The rear seats offered generous legroom and visibility, along with air conditioning vents and USB ports. The 4Runner's cargo space was substantial, with up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded. The interior storage was decent, and the back bumper served as a convenient seating area for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV featured Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by the Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus 12.3-inch HD instrument cluster. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system with 19 speakers. The customizable LED ambient lighting added to the cabin's futuristic feel.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, particularly in the entry-level Trail grade, offered basic technology features. It included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, even with gloves. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems and navigation with off-road trail maps.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV had not been rated by the IIHS, but the 2020 gasoline model received top ratings except for headlights. The NHTSA awarded the 2021 gasoline model five stars. Safety features included six airbags, electronic stability control, and available driver-assistance features like Audi Pre Sense front and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring. The NHTSA gave the 4Runner a three-star rollover resistance rating, and the IIHS rated its roof crush strength as "Good." The SUV's age was reflected in its lower safety ratings for frontal-impact protection.