2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly the 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nod to the past with its retro body stripes and heritage grille design. It featured bronze 17-inch wheels and badges, giving it a distinctive look. The 40 ASE was based on the SR5 Premium trim and included a standard four-wheel-drive system, adding to its rugged appeal. The interior, while filled with plastic, was solid and functional, with controls that were easy to use even with gloves on. The 4Runner's design evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of truck-based SUVs from the past, which contributed to its enduring charm.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a tougher image than it actually possessed. Its design included aggressive angularity and dual exhaust outlets, suggesting performance that wasn't quite there. The TRD Off-Road model, which topped the lineup, came with an off-road suspension, underbody skid plate, and all-terrain tires. The interior was practical, with utility-focused features like easy-clean surfaces and rubber-lined storage areas. The RAV4's cabin was designed for functionality, with options for more upscale touches in higher trims. Despite its rugged appearance, the RAV4 was more suited for everyday use than serious off-roading.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. It had a five-speed automatic transmission, with power sent to the rear wheels unless upgraded to a four-wheel-drive system. The 4Runner offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and had a minimum ground clearance of nine inches. It featured various off-roading technologies, including Hill-Start Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, and Active Traction Control. The TRD models provided specific enhancements for off-road performance, making the 4Runner a capable vehicle in challenging terrains. However, its on-road performance was less impressive, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive as standard and an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The TRD Off-Road model included exclusive off-road suspension tuning and all-terrain tires. The RAV4 offered Multi-Terrain Select with various driving modes, but its ground clearance and approach angles were not significantly improved. While the RAV4 handled daily commutes well, it was noisy at freeway speeds, and its engine, though powerful for its class, was loud and unrefined. The RAV4 TRD Off-Road model had an EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg in combined driving.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's interior was designed for practicality, with a power-down rear window and numerous storage locations. The second-row seating area was spacious, offering good legroom and comfort. However, the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet. The cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet, with an optional sliding floor for easier loading.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on utility, with storage shelves, trays, and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex artificial leather upholstery and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The RAV4 could comfortably accommodate four adults, with a slightly low rear seat but good legroom. The cargo area offered 37.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet, making it competitive in its segment. The RAV4's interior was practical, with features like rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner's technology was basic, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades like a navigation system and JBL premium sound. The voice recognition system performed well, though it had limitations with certain commands. The 4Runner's infotainment system was user-friendly, with real knobs and buttons that were easy to operate.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system, with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and various connected services plans. The RAV4 included features like Service Connect, Safety Connect, and Remote Connect, with a cloud-based navigation system and digital voice assistant. However, the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and some interface issues were noted. The RAV4's standard audio system was decent, with an optional JBL premium audio system available.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were not impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in certain tests.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. However, the base LE trim lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The RAV4's safety systems performed adequately, though the lane-centering assist was less effective on curvy roads. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to Marginal and Acceptable ratings in recent crash tests, indicating the need for an updated design.