2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Land Rover Defender

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a design evolution rather than a complete overhaul. It retained the horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, now with a more robust and industrial look. The exterior featured deep beveled creases on the side body panels, blending seamlessly with the flared wheel arches, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance suitable for off-road adventures. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner included design elements like the slanted rearmost window from the first generation, while the sliding rear window facilitated easier cargo access. Inside, the 4Runner shared similarities with the Toyota Tacoma, featuring a beveled styling motif throughout the cabin. The interior was designed to endure rugged use, with hard plastics and light cushioning for comfort. While the materials were superior to those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, they didn't quite match the craftsmanship of the more expensive Land Rover Defender.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender, particularly the 110 four-door model, struck a balance in design, offering a rugged appeal with extensive customization options. The Defender's base prices ranged significantly, with the 130 V8 model reaching up to $120,525, while the new Defender OCTA was priced at $153,625. The test vehicle, a Defender 130 in X trim, featured the Extended Black Exterior Pack and upgraded interior materials, along with comprehensive off-roading technology. The Defender's design included options like 20-inch wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires, although the Gondwana Stone paint and orange brake calipers were less visually appealing. Inside, the Defender X boasted premium Windsor hides and Kvadrat fabric, with an industrial-themed cabin that emphasized purpose over luxury. Despite its ruggedness, the Defender's interior offered quality materials and a practical layout, making it a formidable choice for those seeking adventure.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices, starting with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing improved acceleration and fuel economy compared to the previous five-speed unit. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option, while off-road-oriented models came standard with 4WD. Toyota introduced the i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, combining the four-cylinder engine with a 1.87-kWh battery pack and an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid variant offered enhanced power at lower speeds, making it ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling improved significantly, with reduced nosedive and body roll, providing a more composed ride on pavement. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine distinct trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models stood out as the most capable adventure vehicles, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added some wind noise.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, one of four powertrain options, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a mild-hybrid system, the engine provided robust acceleration and a maximum tow rating of 8,200 pounds. The Defender 130 X accelerated to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive system. The adaptive air suspension, hill descent control, and Terrain Response 2 driving modes enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Defender's off-road prowess was well-established, with features like an electronic active differential and wade-sensing technology. Despite its off-road capabilities, the Defender 130 was primarily tested on pavement, where it excelled in comfort and ride quality. The air suspension absorbed bumps and potholes effortlessly, though the 20-inch wheels limited its enthusiasm for twisty roads. The Defender's ground clearance, approach, breakover, and departure angles were impressive, with a maximum wading depth of 35.4 inches. However, the vehicle's weight and steering dynamics made it less agile on winding roads.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner measured five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch increase in wheelbase. While this typically results in more passenger space, the gains were minimal. The front seats offered ample room for taller passengers, but the middle row was less accommodating, with adequate legroom and headroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models, though it was cramped and lacked thigh support. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and tactile off-road controls for easy operation. The 4Runner offered various off-road features, including terrain programs and camera views for navigating tough terrain. Towing capacity ranged from 5,800 to 6,000 pounds. Storage options included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity measured 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in hybrid models due to the battery placement. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender 130 offered three rows of spacious seating, with 12-way power-adjustable front seats featuring heating and ventilation. The Defender's tall seating position provided excellent forward visibility, though the square side mirrors seemed undersized. The Clearsight digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera system improved rear visibility. A panoramic sunroof and fixed glass panel over the third row created an open and airy feel. Storage space was plentiful in the front, but less accommodating for rear passengers. The second-row captain's chairs, heated and ventilated, added comfort, while the third-row seat was roomy and supportive. The Defender's side-hinged cargo door was heavy and awkward, with a high load floor. Cargo space measured 15.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.7 cubic feet with the third row folded. Maximum cargo volume reached 89 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a larger 14-inch touchscreen available. Both systems offered logical menus and quick responses, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Hybrid variants included a digital instrument panel, with external camera views for off-road models. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were accessible through a smartphone app, with a digital key function replacing the key fob.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender was equipped with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, featuring an 11.4-inch touchscreen and a configurable digital driver display. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and connected services. Pivi Pro's response to voice commands was slower than preferred, but its accuracy was impressive. The user experience was more intuitive, with fewer dead ends. The Defender's Meridian premium sound system delivered excellent audio quality. Additional features included a head-up display, ClearSight digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system. The Towing Pack added a hands-free trailer reverse-steering system.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were unavailable, but the Tacoma pickup on which it was based received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. The 4Runner came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign reader, and automatic high beams. Proactive Driving Assist was included but could be disabled if intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2025 Land Rover Defender featured several driver aids, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. A lane-centering assist feature was available with adaptive cruise control. The Defender's driver assistance systems operated smoothly, though the lane-keep assist occasionally attempted to steer the vehicle into a turnout area. Crash-test ratings were unavailable for the Defender.