Toyota 4Runner vs Porsche Cayenne

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner represented a significant evolution in design rather than a complete overhaul. Its exterior maintained the recognizable horseshoe-shaped grilles from the previous generation, but with a more robust and industrial flair. The side body panels featured deep beveled creases that seamlessly blended with the flared wheel arches, giving the 4Runner a broad-shouldered stance suitable for an off-road SUV. Paying homage to its predecessors, the new model retained the slanted rearmost window reminiscent of the first-generation 4Runner, while the sliding rear window facilitated easier cargo access. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling motifs throughout. The interior was both purposeful and comfortable, with hard plastics for durability and light cushioning for comfort. The materials were of higher quality than those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, though not as refined as those in a Land Rover Defender.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a choice between a standard SUV with a squared-off rear or a sporty Cayenne Coupe. The GTS trim level featured high gloss black trim and bronze exhaust tips, with a unique front fascia and larger air intakes to cool the V8 engine. Red brake calipers peeked through 21-inch anthracite gray wheels, and the Cayenne Coupe boasted an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, the Cayenne allowed for extensive customization, from color choices to trim and seat belts. The options list was vast, with features like carbon fiber or aluminum interior accents and adjustable seats. While the Cayenne could only accommodate five passengers, the second row offered ample headroom. The Cayenne's towing capacity exceeded 7,700 pounds, though its cargo space was smaller than some competitors.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The entry-level trims came with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup promised improved acceleration and fuel economy over the previous generation. Rear-wheel drive was standard on some trims, with four-wheel drive available as an option. The more 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, delivering a combined output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid variant offered stronger power at lower speeds, ideal for off-roading. The 4Runner's handling was more composed on pavement, with reduced nosedive and body roll compared to the previous generation. Off-road capabilities remained impressive, with nine distinct trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added wind noise on road trips.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.0-liter V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. The Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 horsepower, while the Turbo GT boasted 650 horsepower, available only as a coupe. Plug-in hybrid options offered up to 729 horsepower. The GTS trim, with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, delivered 493 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed transmission powered all four wheels, allowing the Cayenne to reach 60 mph in 4.2 seconds with a top speed of 171 mph. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty and comfortable, with precise steering and agile handling. The optional carbon ceramic brakes provided ample stopping power. In crowded conditions, the GTS transformed into a comfortable commuter. The Cayenne's driving characteristics were available even on the base model, with options like adaptive air suspension and dynamic chassis control enhancing the experience.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer 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. 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 grouped off-road controls for easy operation. Storage options included slatted door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was slightly reduced, with 44.8 cubic feet behind the second row, or 42.6 cubic feet in the hybrid due to the raised floor. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits, supporting up to 800 pounds.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte features, with the base model including eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. Higher trims added features like a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for customization of interior materials and features. The Cayenne accommodated five passengers, with a comfortable second row. Towing capacity exceeded 7,700 pounds, though cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 27.3 cubic feet behind the second row in the standard model, expanding to over 60 cubic feet with the seats folded. The coupe version offered less space, with 20.9 and 53 cubic feet, respectively. The plug-in hybrid models had slightly reduced cargo space due to the battery.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with logical menus and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad, were offered. Hybrid models included a digital instrument panel, with availability on other trims. Off-road models featured external camera views for precise tire placement, with automatic activation when the vehicle slowed. A 14-speaker JBL premium audio system was available, along with a portable Bluetooth speaker. Remote monitoring and control were possible through a smartphone app, with a digital key function replacing the key fob.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne boasted a curved 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with the Porsche Communication Management system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with Spotify, Apple Music, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control, with a screen filter preventing driver distraction. The screens were well-organized and responsive, with voice control options. A head-up display provided pertinent information, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. Four high-speed USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area were standard.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, though the Tacoma pickup on which it was based received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. All 4Runner models came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a traffic sign reader, and automatic high beams. The Proactive Driving Assist feature could be disabled if intrusive. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts was optional.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, but adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested. Neither the NHTSA nor IIHS had rated the 2025 Cayenne for safety.