2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Land Rover Defender

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since its 2010 redesign. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a robust and stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model further emphasized its rugged personality with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires. However, the interior showed its age with outdated technology and styling, featuring an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. Despite the hard plastic surfaces, the 4Runner offered cushioned panels for comfort, though the materials resembled vinyl more than leather.

In contrast, the 2025 Land Rover Defender presented a more modern and customizable design, with the Defender 110 four-door model striking a balance in its rugged appeal. The Defender offered a range of customization options, with prices varying significantly based on the model and features. The Defender X trim, tested with a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, showcased upgraded interior materials and advanced off-roading technology. The interior featured premium Windsor hides and an industrial theme, emphasizing quality materials without the traditional luxury SUV feel. The Defender's design was both purposeful and appealing, offering a unique blend of style and functionality.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were comparable to competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission limited its acceleration and fuel efficiency. The TRD Pro model came standard with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, making it capable off-road. However, on pavement, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable body roll and a loud engine. The soft suspension provided excellent wheel articulation off-road but resulted in a bouncy and floaty ride on highways.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, paired with a mild-hybrid system. Its eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system provided smooth acceleration and a maximum tow rating of 8,200 pounds. The Defender's adaptive air suspension and Terrain Response 2 driving modes enhanced its off-road capabilities, while its on-road performance was characterized by a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Despite its weight, the Defender managed to maintain composure on various terrains, though it wasn't particularly agile on twisty roads.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. It offered ample space for front passengers, though taller drivers might find the steering wheel's reach limited. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted due to the elevated bench height. The 4Runner's cargo capacity ranged from 47.2 to 89.7 cubic feet, depending on seat configuration, with a sliding glass rear window for easy access. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were notable drawbacks.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 130 excelled in interior space, offering three rows of seating with excellent visibility and comfort. The front seats were power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated, while the second-row captain's chairs added luxury. The Defender's panoramic sunroof and large windows created an open and airy feel. Cargo space was limited behind the third row, but folding seats expanded capacity to 89 cubic feet. The side-hinged cargo door was cumbersome, though the air suspension could be lowered for easier loading.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its small touchscreen and lack of off-road-specific apps were limitations. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. Additional terrain controls were available, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full utilization.

In contrast, the 2025 Land Rover Defender boasted the Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a range of connected services. The system's improved response and accuracy impressed, with intuitive user experience and easy programming of favorite radio stations. The Defender also featured a head-up display, ClearSight digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection, and five stars for side impacts. However, it scored three stars in rollover evaluations, and IIHS ratings were similarly varied. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-departure warning, though the system's sensitivity could be adjusted.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. The lane-keep assist was notably decisive, though it occasionally misinterpreted road markings. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Defender's safety technology operated smoothly and effectively.