2024 Ford Bronco vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, or 40 ASE, was based on the SR5 Premium trim level and added a distinctive retro flair to the lineup. It featured a four-wheel-drive system as standard, along with unique design elements like retro body stripes, a heritage grille, and bronze accents both inside and out. The 40 ASE was available in black, white, or red paint with a black artificial leather interior. The 4Runner's design harkened back to the truck-based SUVs of the past, offering a solid and quality feel with easy-to-use controls, even when wearing gloves. Its nostalgic appeal was evident, with a vibe that resonated with Southern California's surf culture.

In contrast, the 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, a popular upgrade, enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires. The Bronco offered nine trim levels, with the Big Bend as the standard, and a choice between two-door and four-door body styles. The interior was designed for comfort, with marine-grade upholstery and a flat dashboard featuring a BRONCO-stamped panel. The Bronco's design was both functional and stylish, providing a unique driving experience with removable roof panels and doors for an open-air feel.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and had a fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in combined driving. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. Depending on the trim, it also offered technologies like locking differentials and Crawl Control. Despite its off-road prowess, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Bronco's off-road capabilities were bolstered by features like Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist. However, its fuel efficiency was a concern, with an average of 16.9 mpg during testing. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions but was less refined on highways.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, providing excellent ventilation. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and ample storage options. The second-row seats provided good legroom and headroom, while the optional third-row seat was less practical. The cargo area was versatile, offering up to 89.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down.

The 2024 Ford Bronco's interior was comfortable, with room for four adults in the two-door model and even more space in the four-door version. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery was durable but less breathable. The Bronco offered various roof and door configurations for an open-air experience. Cargo space in the two-door model was 22.4 cubic feet, expanding to 53.3 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The four-door model offered more space, with up to 83 cubic feet available.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured traditional analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with options for navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The voice recognition system performed well, though the graphics were dated.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system experienced connectivity issues during testing. The Bronco also featured a Bronco Trail App for off-road navigation. The technology package was comprehensive but had a learning curve.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, its crash-test ratings were less favorable, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend offered standard safety features such as forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. The Mid Package added lane-departure warning and blind-spot monitoring. The Bronco received favorable ratings from the IIHS, except for its headlight performance, and a four-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA.