Need help choosing between Rav4 and 4Runner?

I recently lost my 2017 Toyota Corolla XSE, and now I’m lucky to be in a position to get a new car. The 4Runner has been my dream vehicle for three years, but the more I research, the more I feel unsure about it. I need heated seats, CarPlay, a sunroof, and good gas mileage. I want a sportier, more aggressive-looking SUV with leather seats.

The Rav4 XSE or Hybrid XSE seems like a better match for my needs, but I still dream about the 4Runner’s size and rugged design. I’m drawn to trims like the Nightshade and Woodland for their aesthetics, though I know they might not have all the features I need.

What should I do? My brain is tired from all this research. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

The 4Runner and good gas mileage don’t belong in the same sentence. Its powertrain is old but reliable. I’d recommend the Rav4 unless you plan to do serious off-roading.

Deen said:
The 4Runner and good gas mileage don’t belong in the same sentence. Its powertrain is old but reliable. I’d recommend the Rav4 unless you plan to do serious off-roading.

The only off-roading I do is hitting curbs in the drive-thru. Thanks for your input!

@Johnstone
The Rav4 Hybrid gets 40 mpg combined compared to the 4Runner’s 17 mpg. That’s more than double. The 4Runner looks great, but most owners don’t use it to its full potential.

Deen said:
@Johnstone
The Rav4 Hybrid gets 40 mpg combined compared to the 4Runner’s 17 mpg. That’s more than double. The 4Runner looks great, but most owners don’t use it to its full potential.

This is why I sold my 4Runner. The mileage was just too much. I turned my Rav4 XSE into a soft-roader, and I get 30 mpg now.

@Floyd
Would love to see pictures!

@Johnstone
Based on what you’ve shared, the Rav4 XSE seems like the better fit for you. You can even add some overlanding accessories to give it a rugged look.

Everyone dreams of a 4Runner but ends up needing a Rav4. I wanted a 4Runner too but bought a Rav4. It’s hard to justify the 12-14 mpg compared to 30-40 mpg unless you’re truly off-roading or hauling heavy gear. If you’re looking for practicality, the Rav4 wins in almost every category.

@Jin
Thanks! I barely deal with snow, and while I live in a flood-prone area, I think the Rav4 can handle it.

It sounds like you need good gas mileage and a sporty look. The 4Runner costs more to buy and maintain. You could save money with a Rav4 and add a 2-inch lift, all-terrain tires, and some roof rack accessories to achieve the rugged look you want without sacrificing practicality.

@Marlowe
Thank you! Tires and window tint would definitely be my first mods.

If you plan to do a lot of off-roading, go with the 4Runner. If it’s mostly commuting with light off-road use, the Rav4 is the better choice.

EmilyWilson said:
If you plan to do a lot of off-roading, go with the 4Runner. If it’s mostly commuting with light off-road use, the Rav4 is the better choice.

Honestly, I just want to look like I could go off-roading. Most of my trips are to Target!

Based on your needs, the Rav4 XSE Hybrid sounds perfect. It has everything you want—heated seats, CarPlay, a sunroof, and excellent mpg. Plus, it looks sporty enough to turn heads.

The 4Runner has been your dream car for three years. If you go with the Rav4, you might regret not choosing what you really wanted. Follow your heart and go for the 4Runner.

The Rav4 XSE is hybrid-only if that helps narrow it down for you.

I’d love a 4Runner if it had a hybrid option. The roll-down rear window is such a great feature—my dogs would love it.

Great post! I’m dealing with the same decision.

Darian said:
Great post! I’m dealing with the same decision.

Best of luck—it’s not an easy choice!