2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was designed to project a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front fascia and angular body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the RAV4's performance didn't quite match its looks. The TRD Off-Road model, priced at $41,925 with options, featured Army Green paint, a digital rearview mirror, and advanced technology packages. While the RAV4 offered a range of trims from the base LE at $28,675 to the TRD Off-Road, the interior quality improved with higher budgets. The cabin was practical, with easy-to-clean surfaces and utility-focused features, but lacked the upscale feel of some competitors.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented an evolution in design, maintaining its iconic horseshoe-shaped grille while adopting a more industrial look. The exterior featured deep creases and flared wheel arches, giving it a robust stance. Inside, the 4Runner shared design elements with the Tacoma pickup, offering a purposeful yet comfortable cabin. The materials were durable, with hard plastics and light cushioning, providing a balance between ruggedness and refinement. The 4Runner's homage to previous generations was evident, with features like the slanted rear window, while modern touches ensured it remained relevant.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain required high revs to access its full potential, and the eight-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with an optional torque-vectoring AWD system. The TRD Off-Road model came standard with AWD, off-road suspension tuning, and all-terrain tires. Despite its off-road enhancements, the RAV4's ground clearance and approach angles were similar to other models, limiting its off-road prowess. The RAV4's fuel economy was rated at 28 mpg combined, with the test vehicle averaging 26.6 mpg.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine options: a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, and a more powerful i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid variant provided stronger low-speed power, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's eight-speed automatic transmission improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous generation. The new 4Runner was more composed on pavement, with reduced body roll and improved steering. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized practicality and utility, with storage shelves, trays, and oversized control knobs. The TRD Off-Road trim featured SofTex upholstery and optional heated and ventilated front seats. The RAV4 comfortably accommodated four adults, with a roomy cargo area offering 37.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with minimal gains in passenger space. The front seats offered ample room, while the middle row provided adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate controls and off-road controls grouped for easy access. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.6 cubic feet in hybrid models. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system included Service Connect and Safety Connect for ten years, and Remote Connect and Drive Connect for one year. The infotainment system was sophisticated but had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered an 8-inch or optional 14-inch touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Off-road models included external camera views and automatic camera activation. A 14-speaker JBL audio system was available, along with remote monitoring and a digital key function. These features marked a significant tech upgrade for the 4Runner.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, but lacked a blind-spot monitoring system on the base LE trim. The TSS 2.5 system was adequate, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist, though it struggled on curvy roads. The RAV4 lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to Marginal and Acceptable ratings in crash tests.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were not yet available, but it shared its platform with the Tacoma, a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Proactive Driving Assist feature could be intrusive but was optional.