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. The body had crisp character lines, and the rear showcased bold taillights, contributing to its 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 and an uncluttered appearance. The materials used were authentic, with real wood and metal, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen was strategically placed for easy access. The second row was well-appointed with standard leather seating surfaces.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner had not seen a redesign in 12 years, 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 SR5, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro, with special editions like the Trail Special Edition. Our test vehicle, the Trail Special Edition, was priced at $38,565 MSRP for the RWD model, with 4WD adding $1,875. It featured black cloth upholstery, all-weather floor mats, and a custom-made cooler. The interior was dominated by hard plastic, reflecting its rugged mission, and the dashboard was old-school with large knobs and buttons. Despite its age, the 4Runner was a durable and simple SUV, appealing to those seeking longevity.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV enhanced the driving experience by adding an electric motor to the standard gasoline engine, resulting in a combined output of 362 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds, and offered a fuel economy of 65 MPGe combined. The Q5 PHEV featured a seven-speed S Tronic automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive and various driving modes, including a battery-only mode for up to 20 miles. The handling was sporty yet comfortable, with minimal body roll and powerful braking.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, was designed for off-road adventures. It excelled in challenging terrains, thanks to its A-Trac off-road traction control system and optional features like a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 16.8 mpg during testing. Despite its truck-like driving characteristics, the 4Runner's off-road capabilities were its main appeal.

The 2021 Audi Q5 offered a well-balanced interior with 25.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The second row provided ample legroom and headroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. The front seats were supportive and adjustable, with heating and ventilation options. The interior design was uncluttered, with smartly laid-out controls and storage spaces.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner sat high off the ground, which could be challenging for shorter individuals. Once inside, the seats were comfortable, with ample legroom and visibility. The back seat featured air conditioning vents and USB ports. A third-row seat was optional, but our test vehicle had a sliding cargo deck instead. Cargo space was generous, with up to 47.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 89.7 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Trail Special Edition's roof rack added extra storage capacity.

The 2021 Audi Q5 PHEV was equipped with Audi's latest MMI 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering a user-friendly interface and customization options. The Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus provided a high-definition instrument cluster with multiple views. The Prestige Package included navigation and a Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay was standard, enhancing connectivity.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation and voice recognition. While the system was not visually sophisticated, it was functional and easy to use, even with gloves. The Trail Special Edition also included a windshield wiper de-icer and a 120-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area.

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

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.