Toyota 4Runner vs Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ was available in XLE and Limited trims, offering both single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, with two battery size options. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior design was improved with body-color trim, enhancing its appeal compared to previous models. Inside, the dashboard and center console were redesigned for a cleaner look, and the fabric seats featured an upscale pattern. The center touchscreen was increased to 14 inches, integrating climate control functions, although the digital driver display's placement and size remained a concern.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner shared design elements with the Tacoma pickup, featuring a muscular look with pronounced haunches and black wheel flares for off-road models. The front grille sat high, with unique bumpers on the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models for better approach angles. Heritage-inspired front ends with "Toyota" lettering and integrated light bars were notable features. The interior had a utilitarian design with chunky control dials and an abundance of hard plastic, though higher trims offered synthetic or leather upholstery. Despite its rugged exterior, the 4Runner's interior lacked a high-end feel, even with leather upholstery.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD featured a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models, available only with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges depending on the trim. Recharging options included DC fast charging and Level 2 home charging, with efficiency tests showing favorable results compared to EPA estimates. The bZ was a comfortable cruiser but lacked robust mid-range passing power and struggled on winding roads due to its tires and steering.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner came with two powertrains: the i-Force turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, and the i-Force Max hybrid system, which added an electric motor for a total of 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. The hybrid powertrain, featured in the TRD Off-Road Premium tester, offered decent torque for off-roading but wasn't particularly quick, with a 0–60 mph time in the mid-to-low seven-second range. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Bilstein dampers, and various drive modes. However, its on-road dynamics were compromised by its body-on-frame platform, resulting in a bumpy ride and notable lean in corners.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. The front seats provided eight-way power adjustment, with heated and ventilated options in the Limited trim. The interior lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage solutions. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom, though foot space was limited. Cargo space was 27.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 56.9 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the Limited trim had slightly less space due to a subwoofer.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner was available in two- or three-row configurations, seating up to seven passengers. The front seats offered manual adjustment as standard, with power adjustments and heated options in higher trims. The second-row seats provided decent space but lacked comfort due to low seat bottoms. The three-row version was less accommodating, with limited legroom. Cargo space varied depending on the configuration and powertrain, with the hybrid models offering less space due to a higher load floor. The second row could fold flat or tilt up to create a flat load floor.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The driver display's placement and size were problematic, while the infotainment system lacked a home screen and had readability issues in daytime mode. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with various connected service plans available. The Drive Connect system powered navigation and voice assistant features, which generally performed well.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner came standard with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen, expandable to 12.3 inches and 14 inches, respectively, in higher trims. The larger touchscreen lacked distinctive design elements but was easy to use, with quick access to functions. The 4Runner included a one-year trial of Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect, with a Wi-Fi hotspot available for a limited time. The digital instrument cluster offered programmable information areas, and standard tech features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist provided additional safety inputs, and the Limited trim offered advanced features like Traffic Jam Assist. However, the bZ received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with poor headlight ratings and acceptable frontal-impact crash-test results.

The 2026 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring similar safety technologies as the bZ. It received mixed crash test scores, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and marginal results from the IIHS in certain tests. The 4Runner's safety features included blind-spot monitors, cross-traffic alert, and traffic-jam assist.