Two very popular mid-size SUVs come from: the Highlander and the 4Runner. Both SUVs have multiple strengths, but the 2023 Toyota has one major advantage over the 2023 Toyota 4Runner: an efficient hybrid model.
Unlike the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has a hybrid model
With gas prices soaring, there has been a great deal of financial trouble at the pump over the past year. Although the price of gas has dropped from record highs in 2022, it is still a major vehicle ownership cost. However, an efficient midsize SUV like the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a remedy for this financial burden.
received the hybrid treatment, including the RAV4, Corolla Cross, Venza and Sequoia. While there may be a hybrid version of the 4Runner in 2024, for the 2023 model year, your only option is fully gas-powered.
2023 Highlander has higher gas mileage than 2023 4Runner
With its hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Highlander Hybrid has significantly better fuel economy than the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, resulting in savings at the pump. This, in turn, reduces long-term ownership costs for midsize SUV drivers. The hybrid powertrain channels power from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors, delivering estimated gas mileage up to 36 mpg city/35 highway.
All 4Runner models feature a 4.0-liter V-6 engine. It is very inefficient and consumes a lot of gas. Gets estimated fuel economy up to 16 city/19 highway mpg. Compared to the 4Runner, the Highlander Hybrid gets 19 mpg more for light driving and 16 mpg more for highway driving.
Plus, even if you opt for the fully gas-powered version of the Highlander, you’ll still benefit from increased efficiency. It features a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine, which gets an estimated gas mileage of up to 22 city/29 mpg highway.
Another benefit of the Highlander’s increased fuel economy is practicality. With its lower fuel consumption, it requires fewer trips to the gas station than the 4Runner.
Other strengths of the Toyota Highlander over the 4Runner
The 2023 has other strengths than the 2023 4Runner. This includes a roomier interior with more room for passengers. It has a total passenger volume of 141.3 cu-ft, compared to 93.7 cu-ft for the two-row 4Runner and 128.0 cu-ft for the three-row model. Additionally, the Highlander offers seating for up to eight passengers, while the 4Runner seats up to five for the two-row model and seven for the three-row version.
Also, the Highlander is more reliable than the . Consumer Reports ranks it higher for reliability, with fewer mechanical issues. The Highlander is also safer. Unlike the 4Runner, it earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
Plus, the Highlander is more affordable. It has a starting price of $36,420 MSRP, compared to $39,555 for the 4Runner.
With its efficient hybrid model, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has a big lead over the 2023 Toyota 4Runner. The option for a hybrid model doesn’t mean the Highlander is a better size average overall. However, it’s a factor for SUV buyers to consider, especially those who prioritize high fuel economy.
