2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, retained a rugged charm that appealed to those seeking a durable and utilitarian SUV. Its design, unchanged for over a decade, still managed to convey a sense of timelessness with its two-box body, flared fenders, and trapezoidal wheel arches. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's appearance was functional, with the Limited trim offering a slightly more refined look. The interior was straightforward, featuring hard plastics and an old-school dashboard with large knobs and buttons, emphasizing practicality over luxury. The 4Runner was available in various trims and packages, with prices ranging from $46,200 to $62,430, offering a range of options for different needs.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid presented a more modern and stylish appearance, though it lacked the ruggedness of the 4Runner. The RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, was fully loaded but still maintained a rental car-like appearance. Its styling was tough for a compact SUV, but larger alloy wheels would have enhanced its look. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid was functional and practical, with a mix of quality materials and some hard plastics. The interior was comfortable, with a few minor issues like a rattle from the license plate. Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a more contemporary and refined experience compared to the 4Runner.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its A-Trac off-road traction control system. With a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, the 4Runner was equipped for rugged terrain. It featured a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD drivetrain, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its fuel consumption was high, averaging 14.0 L/100 km, making frequent stops at gas stations necessary. Despite its age, the 4Runner's truck-like characteristics added to its charm, though they might not suit everyone's daily driving needs.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, on the other hand, offered a more efficient and lively driving experience. Its hybrid powertrain combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. The RAV4 Hybrid's instant electric-motor torque made it feel responsive, though the engine sounded unpleasant when revved. It achieved impressive fuel efficiency, averaging 5.9 L/100 km. The RAV4 Hybrid's CVT operated smoothly, and its regenerative braking system was effective. While the tires lacked grip, the RAV4 Hybrid's ride and handling were generally agreeable. It was well-suited for daily driving, with a comfortable ride and decent off-road capability.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample legroom and supportive seats. Its high ground clearance could pose a challenge for shorter passengers, but once inside, the 4Runner provided a pleasant experience. The rear seats had good visibility, air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded down. The 4Runner's interior storage was decent, and its back bumper served as a convenient seating area for outdoor activities.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid prioritized comfort and practicality. It featured an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a heated steering wheel, and heated and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed decent legroom and reclining backrests, though the seat felt a bit low. The dashboard was well-organized, with large climate control knobs and an easy-to-use infotainment system. The RAV4 Hybrid offered 1,059 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded down. Interior storage was accommodating, with useful shelves and cupholders for rear-seat occupants.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, especially in the entry-level Trail grade. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included physical shortcut buttons and knobs for easy operation. While the 4Runner's technology was not cutting-edge, it was functional and user-friendly.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered a more advanced infotainment system, with options for a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. The larger screen included SiriusXM satellite radio and various connectivity features. The top-tier system featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system with dynamic navigation. The RAV4 Hybrid also offered camera-based technology, including a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Marginal" rating for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact collision from the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), which included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The RAV4 Hybrid received high safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.