Toyota has released the redesigned 4runner in 2025. This is a big deal for fans of this SUV, as the previous generation was on sale for 14 years. new Toyota 4runner There are unique new styling, latest technology features, and available hybrid powertrains that promise performance improvements without sacrificing MPGs. And, like its previous models, it has a sturdy design that is suitable for off-road adventures.
However, this is not the only option for medium-sized family adventure cars. Honda Passport Honda’s medium-sized SUVs are bigger and more capable than the CR-V. There is a complete redesign for 2026, with boxy styling, new features and more interior space. Edmunds’ car experts tested them to find out which was the better purchase.
Comfort and performance
Passports have a great advantage of being comfortable. The bumps and ruts lined up are much smoother than the 4runner, compared to the on-road-oriented 4runner trim level. Also, driving with more accurate steering and composed handling around the turns feels like a car.
All passports come with a 285 horsepower V6 engine and standard all-wheel drive. There are no optional engine upgrades or hybrids. In contrast, you can get the 4Runner using an engine that is a 278 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, or buy one of the more expensive 4runner versions with a 326 horsepower hybrid powertrain. Edmunds tested them all. Overall, there’s not much difference in real-world driving. Also, there’s no feeling when you need speed.
Advantage: Honda Passport
Interior Room
The 4runner is available in third row seats, but is am breached and limited to only a small trim level. So both of these SUVs are virtually two rows of five-seater vehicles. Passports have distinct advantages when transporting children and families regularly. The back seat of the passport is very spacious and comfortable, and even has a central seat. The 4runner, on the other hand, is flatter, less support and more spacious for the head, legs and car seating. It is also more difficult to get in and out of the 4runner than your passport.
Advantage: Honda Passport
Fuel cost
The EPA estimates that the base Honda Passport RTL will acquire 21 MPG for combined city/highway driving. Off-road-oriented TrailSport drops into just 20 mpg combinations. Edmunds’ real-world tests matched that number. The 4Runner’s fuel economy is increased due to additional powertrain and trim level options. The gas-only version combines 21-22 mpg, while the hybrid gets bumps to a total of 23 mpg.
Advantage: 4Runner
Off-load function
4runner is a way to go if you imagine traveling frequently off-roading, but there are many different flavors to consider. Even the simple SR5 with four-wheel drive has good suspension articulation and advanced ground clearance suitable for rats and steep slopes. This feature increases with upgraded hardware and traction-related technology as you move beyond TRD Off-Road Trim Level and Trailhunter and TRD Pro to two hardcore products.
However, the off-roading intentions are not so serious, making the Honda Passport viable. Thanks to a competent all-wheel drive system and traction boost technology, your passport can work well on dirt roads. The TrailSport version includes all terrain tires, among other extras. For most buyers, it requires sufficient functionality.
Advantage: Toyota 4runner
Price and value
The 4runner trim level lineup doesn’t resemble the typical ladder where each trim gets more and more content. Instead, it’s like a river that branches out in different directions. This starts with the $42,765 base SR5 with features like an 8-inch touchscreen, manual cloth seats, and advanced driver AIDS, including adaptive cruise control and blind spot warning. After that, there are versions such as the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road, both starting at around $50,000. The top spec TRD Pro and Trailhunter retreat the cool $68,895.
The passport lineup is simpler and generally offers more equipment for money. The less-sturdy $46,245 RTL trim starts at roughly the same point as the four-wheel drive 4runnerSR5. More off-road available at $49,945 Trailsport and top-level $54,400 Trailsport elite are best compared to 4runner TRD off-road or feature content. We need to value Toyota’s off-road capabilities and tilt the value needle from Honda.
Advantage: Honda Passport
Edmunds says
In fact, “we really need to evaluate Toyota’s off-road capabilities” is the best way to summarise this whole comparison. 4runner can go to places that Honda can’t, but it’s hard to imagine many families trying to even go to such places. In most cases, Passport Trailsport is abundantly capable off-road, but on-road is abundantly livable.
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This story was provided to the Associated Press by the car website Edmunds. James Liswick is a contributor to Edmunds.
