Looking for a mid size SUV with some off roading capabilities? You’ve come to the right place. The 2023 Ford Bronco and the Toyota 4Runner both tend to be top choices when it comes to versatile vehicles. We will compare the two cars and help you decide which one is best for your next adventurous outing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The higher torque allows for more effective power to the wheels on the Ford Bronco.
- There’s no discernable horsepower difference between the Bronco and the 4Runner.
- Better fuel Economy comes with the 4Runner, but there are more engine options on the Bronco.
- The Bronco suggests that it is a modern alternative to the Jeep Wrangler, while the 4Runner takes the more traditional 4-door SUV style.
PERFORMANCE: BRONCO ALLOWS MORE CUSTOMIZATION
Right off the bat, the Bronco allows drivers to get the vehicle they need by customizing it to their needs with its three distinct engine types. The base engine of the Bronco is a 2.3L V4 engine coming in at 275 horsepower. That’s compared to the 270 horsepower, 4-liter V6 engine of the 4Runner. And this is only the entry level horsepower for the Bronco’s capabilities, because you can move up to the Bronco Raptor trim with a 3L, V6 cylinder engine reaching 418 in horsepower. Having three tiers of engine options gives buyers much more flexibility when it comes to picking a car that is going to work for them. Both cars are going to look stunning in your driveway with their boxy, sleek looks. But it’s under the hood and shimmer that the Bronco has the advantage.
WHICH HAS THE BETTER FEATURES?
It’s nearly a tie between these two cars, as both come packed with features that will make any rugged road seem like a dream. For starters, lower-level trims on the Bronco come with the Sync 4 infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a 7-speaker audio system are also included. In higher trims that touchscreen is upgraded to a 12 inch with enhanced system navigation. The base trims of the 4Runner come with many of the exact same features, with also an added free trial of SiriusXM radio. The TRD adds HD radio and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Both have comfortable interiors that compare to even some of the most renowned SUVs currently on the market. For the 4Runner, depending on the trim: cloth, synthetic leather, and genuine leather are all options. Where they really start to differentiate in their features is their exteriors. The configuration of the Bronco allows drivers to remove the roof and doors, further rivaling the Jeep Wrangler.
SAFETY AT ITS FINEST: A TIE
Both Ford and Toyota ensured that safety was in mind. Safety features in both the Bronco and the 4Runner ensure drivers can take their car anywhere. Each comes with an advanced driver assistance program, and while not all the features are standard, it can be upgraded through different packages. The Bronco includes braking assists to prevent some collisions and forward collision warnings, with several higher trims offering blind spot and lane departure warnings. The 4Runner includes the same, with its forward collision warning also including pedestrian detection and higher trims offering downhill assist control. Both cars offer nearly all of the same safety features at one trim level or another or can be upgraded and added with different packages.
TAKE IT FOR A TEST DRIVE
Ultimately, the biggest way to decide between these two SUVs is getting a feel for them for yourself. They both are going to feel great driving, on and off the road, and have many of the features needed to accomplish that. However, The Ford Bronco is our pick for a mid-sized SUVs, as it offers a lot of the same features as the 4Runner, with the added specialty of being a rugged off-road warrior. Not to mention all the choices between engine and trims, the capability of the Bronco keeps buyers that want options in mind. Come schedule a visit today and see for yourself.