2024 Toyota Land Cruiser vs. 2025 4Runner

History

Before diving into specifications, let’s take a trip back to simpler times. In this section, we’re looking at the history of each iconic model.

Toyota 4Runner

Since its inception in 1984, the 4Runner has remained a staple of Toyota’s lineup. From humble beginnings as a modified Toyota Pickup to its current manifestation as a refined turbocharged machine, the 4Runner demonstrates immense popularity without slowing.  

The Toyota 4Runner has a unique backstory in the United States. After Toyota discontinued FJ40 Land Cruiser sales in the states, a private dealer in Wisconsin, Jack Safro, concocted a plan to produce a unique replacement. Safro took plans for his ideal SUV—a modified Toyota Pickup (Hilux) with a walk-through cabin and integrated fiberglass shell—to RV manufacturer Winnebago, which immediately gained traction. Toyota and Winnebago soon struck up a deal, which netted the 1981–1983 Toyota Trekker.

After nationwide interest, Toyota discontinued its partnership with Winnebago to produce its own version—dubbed the 4Runner. After four decades and numerous generations, the 4Runner has remained an integral part of Toyota’s lineup without pause.

Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser stems back to WWII-era Japan after a captured Bantam GP (Willys MB) was sent back to Japan for Toyota engineers to study. The Japanese military commissioned a similar vehicle, resulting in the Toyota Model AK and BJ. In 1954, Willys hit Toyota with a trademark dispute regarding the usage of the term “Jeep,” which resulted in the Toyota-manufactured off-road vehicle’s redesignation as a “Land Cruiser.” And thus, the model was born. 

Toyota has sold several versions and generations of the Land Cruiser in the United States. Initially, the FJ20 Land Cruiser—a Jeep CJ competitor—hit the North American market in 1955. This model remained in production until 1960. After a brief hiatus, Toyota brought the FJ40 Land Cruiser to the US market in 1963, which remained virtually unchanged until 1984. Since Toyota discontinued the North-American-market FJ40, Toyota offered four additional Land Cruiser generations—the 55-series, 60-series, 80-series, and 200-series—though the latter was discontinued by 2021. 

However, this gap didn’t last long. 2024 resulted in the release of an all-new North American Land Cruiser—the 250-series.

Model Overview

While the 4Runner and Land Cruiser fall into similar categories, both being midsize SUVs available in four-wheel-drive configurations, they differ in several ways. Let’s get into some of the key characteristics of each platform.

Toyota 4Runner

Since the introduction of Toyota’s TNGA-F Global Truck Platform, all new Toyota “trucks” have utilized the architecture. This includes the Sequoia, Tundra, Tacoma, Land Cruiser, and finally the 4Runner. With body-on-frame construction, double-wishbone front suspension, and coil-sprung solid-axle rear, the all-new 4Runner finally moves away from the N280 generation and into Toyota’s modern age—after nearly 15 years.  

This being said, the all-new Land Cruiser shares the same platform—so what are the key differences? Chassis-wise, essentially nothing. Both SUVs share the same wheelbase and overall skeleton, with the primary differences being sheet metal, interior trimmings, and drivetrains. 

The 4Runner remains an entry-level vehicle compared to the pricier Land Cruiser, sporting a base turbocharged i-Force 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. However, when spec’d similarly to the base land cruiser with the i-Force MAX powertrain, both vehicles come in at similar price points.

Toyota Land Cruiser

By contrast, the Land Cruiser is marketed as a more luxurious midsize SUV, sporting a base i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain, more headroom, and improved amenities. After a brief hiatus, the 250-series Land Cruiser amalgamates past generations and new technology, featuring a body reminiscent of the 60-series Land Cruiser. 

Under the retro sheet metal, the SUV uses the same architecture as every other new Toyota truck and SUV. This grants the Land Cruiser similar off-road performance and handling characteristics—especially since it sports the same 112-in. wheelbase. 

Essentially, both models are very similar, though the Land Cruiser markets towards luxury and off-road prowess, whereas the 4Runner remains in the same mid-range class.

Specifications

While we’ve covered the design qualities that set the two similar models apart, let’s get into each’s specifications. Consult the chart below for basic specs.

2025 4Runner

2024 Land Cruiser

Which Platform is Right for You?

With specs and model overviews covered, it’s pretty obvious that the Land Cruiser and 4Runner are incredibly similar vehicles, sharing the same platform, wheelbase, drivetrain, and even powertrain, depending on the trim level. With so many similarities, how do you determine which is right for you? 

Ultimately, the choice between Land Cruiser and 4Runner boils down to preferred styling and budget. If you like the retro-inspired styling of the Land Cruiser and don’t mind the higher price tag, it’s an exceptional vehicle. However, if you’re looking for more contemporary styling at a better value, consider the 4Runner.

Top Products for Your New Toyota SUV

Whichever Toyota SUV you opt for, be sure to outfit it with accessories from RealTruck. We carry all the ideal parts and accessories to modify, protect, and optimize your Toyota 4Runner or Land Cruiser—check out some of our favorites below.

Seat Covers

Regardless of how you plan to use your new Toyota SUV, whether a kid-hauling daily driver or a certified weekend wheeler, seat covers are one of the best upgrades. These durable protectors help to prevent rips, tears, and unsightly stains, keeping your Toyota’s interior looking factory-fresh for years to come.

Floor Liners

Guard your Toyota’s factory carpeting against muddy shoes, wet boots, and accidental spills with our selection of premium floor mats and liners. Our floor mats range from heavy-duty all-weather mats to premium, plush carpeted liners.

Cargo Liners

Don’t stop protection at your Toyota’s floor pans. Instead, carry that coverage to your Toyota’s rear cargo compartment. The floor in your Land Cruiser or 4Runner’s hatch is also susceptible to stains and wear from transporting abrasive cargo, dogs, and more. Protect this carpet with our high-quality cargo liners, providing excellent protection.