2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle whose design elements revealed their purpose over time. It wasn't flashy, but its subtle styling choices, like the dished hood, were functional, enhancing the driver's forward sight lines for better navigation. The fenders bulged slightly to accommodate wheel travel, hinting at the vehicle's width. The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels. Inside, it bordered on luxury with black perforated leather seating and a functional, if somewhat plain, dashboard. The center stack housed a 9-inch touchscreen surrounded by a multitude of controls, while the instrument panel featured traditional analog gauges.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner maintained a timeless, utilitarian design with its tall slab sides, high beltline, and short overhangs. Its flared wheel wells were practical, accommodating off-road tires, while the hood scoop on TRD trims was more aesthetic than functional. The 4Runner's trim lineup was diverse, with options like the Nightshade and Venture Special Editions adding unique styling elements. Our Limited trim test model prioritized comfort with leather upholstery, though the utilitarian DNA was evident in the abundance of plastic. The 4Runner's seating position was designed for off-road capability, offering a commanding view of the road.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided the SUV with impressive capability. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was further enhanced by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control knob, allowing drivers to adapt to various terrains. Despite its size, the Land Cruiser offered a serene driving experience, with controlled body roll and excellent visibility. However, its fuel economy was modest, with an EPA estimate of 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, managed by a 5-speed automatic transmission. This setup was not designed for efficiency, with an EPA estimate of 16 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. The 4Runner excelled off-road, thanks to its body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like CRAWL control and Multi-Terrain Select. While the 4Runner's on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and vague steering, its off-road capabilities were impressive, making it a reliable choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser offered a dual personality, with features suited for both commuting and overlanding. It came with standard skid plates, tow hooks, and mudguards, while the interior boasted a three-row configuration with heated second-row seats. The Land Cruiser's climate control system was comprehensive, with four-zone automatic control and numerous cup holders. A split tailgate added a touch of retro charm, and the SUV could tow up to 8,100 pounds. The Heritage Edition featured a Yakima roof rack, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner prioritized visibility and practicality, with a tight turning radius and a tall seating position. The interior featured large, easy-to-use controls and an 8-inch touchscreen. While the 4Runner offered an optional third row, it was best suited for short, occasional use. The SUV's body-on-frame construction contributed to its off-road capability, but also resulted in a high seating position that could be challenging for some passengers. Despite its utilitarian nature, the 4Runner provided a commanding view of the road and a sense of invincibility over rough terrain.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Toyota Premium Audio, including 14 JBL speakers and integrated navigation. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were becoming standard in many competitors. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a valuable addition, providing selectable views for navigating challenging terrain. While the Land Cruiser's technology was functional, it lagged behind more modern competitors in terms of screen size and interface options.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received a significant technology update with an 8-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This made the infotainment system more user-friendly, though the onboard navigation system was less intuitive. The 4Runner also offered Amazon Alexa compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and various subscription services. While the technology was a step forward, the 4Runner still lagged behind market leaders in terms of features and usability. Its true technological strengths lay in its off-road capabilities, with advanced systems designed for challenging terrain.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), offering features like a pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also included the Star Safety System, with stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Land Cruiser had 10 airbags, active headrests, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. While it hadn't been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, its robust construction and safety features provided peace of mind.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner also benefited from Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and a pre-collision system. It featured eight airbags and received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, though it scored lower in the rollover test. The IIHS gave it good ratings in most crash tests, except for the small overlap front: driver-side test. While the 4Runner's safety features were a significant improvement, its high center of gravity and imprecise steering highlighted the need for more active safety systems.