Toyota 4Runner vs Porsche Cayenne

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne presented itself as a versatile SUV, available in both a standard model with a squared-off rear end and a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level, which was the focus of this review, featured distinctive high gloss black trim, a unique front fascia with larger air intakes, and tinted headlights. Red brake calipers were visible through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels, and the Cayenne Coupe boasted an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from the vibrant Carmine Red interior to various trim and seat belt choices. While the pricing could escalate with options like a custom paint job, the Cayenne's interior was thoughtfully designed, with mechanical controls for essential features and a spacious layout, despite a slightly finicky centre console.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner shared design elements with the Tacoma pickup, making it challenging to distinguish the two from the front. The 4Runner had a muscular appearance with pronounced haunches and black wheel flares for off-road models. The grille sat high, complemented by a lower intake with an underbite, especially on the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models. These models featured heritage-inspired front ends with "Toyota" lettering on the grille and an integrated light bar. The interior of the 4Runner was simple and utilitarian, with chunky control dials and an abundance of hard plastic. Cloth upholstery was standard, while synthetic leather was used in off-road models for easy cleaning. Leather upholstery was reserved for the Limited and Platinum trims, but even with leather, the cabin lacked a high-end feel.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, all capable of delivering impressive performance. The base 3.0-litre V6 produced 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, while the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp. The Turbo GT, available only as a coupe, boasted 650 hp. Plug-in hybrid options provided up to 729 hp for those seeking peak performance. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, delivered 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty and comfortable, with precise steering and agile handling. The optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power, and the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter in Normal mode.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner offered two powertrains and two 4WD systems. The base engine, a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder, generated 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The i-Force Max hybrid added an electric motor, increasing output to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. The hybrid powertrain provided good torque for off-roading, but its acceleration was modest, with a mid-to-low seven-second 0 to 100 km/h time. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Bilstein dampers, and a Multi-Terrain System with various drive modes. However, its on-road dynamics were compromised, with notable lean in corners and firm suspension. The Limited and Platinum trims offered a more street-friendly ride with full-time 4WD.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte customization, with standard features like eight-way power-adjustable seats and two-zone climate control. The GTS trim added a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for personalization of interior elements. However, the Cayenne lacked a third row, accommodating only five passengers. It could tow up to 3,500 kilograms and had a payload capacity of over 635 kilograms. Cargo space was slightly smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row and 1,708 litres with seats folded in the standard model.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner offered two or three rows of seating, with the front seats providing the best comfort. Heated front seats were standard in Canada, and power adjustments were available in higher trims. The second row had decent space but lacked comfort, with low seat bottoms and limited thigh support. The three-row version had limited legroom, making it suitable for children. Cargo space was competitive, with hybrid two-row models offering 1,206 litres behind the second row and 2,339 litres behind the first row. The three-row configuration had 343 litres behind the third row, 1,269 litres behind the second row, and 2,381 litres with all seats folded.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for media control and video streaming. The screens were well-organized and responsive, with voice control options. A head-up display provided information to the driver, although it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four high-speed USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner came with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen, expanding to 12.3 inches and 14 inches in higher trims. The 14-inch screen was easy to use but lacked distinctive design elements. The 4Runner included a three-year trial of Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect, with Drive Connect available as a subscription. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster offered programmable information, and standard tech features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a satellite radio trial, and a wireless phone charger.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard safety features like parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. The Cayenne had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for safety.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner came equipped with Toyota's Safety Sense 3.0 suite, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and more. It received mixed crash scores, with four out of five stars overall from the NHTSA and a Marginal score in the IIHS moderate front overlap crash test. However, it received Good ratings in side crash tests and for its front crash prevention systems.