The 2023 Ford Bronco and Toyota 4Runner are both known for their roomy cabins and rugged capabilities. Which is the best contender for your hard-earned dollars? Our comparison guide takes a look.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the Bronco (starting at $34,890) for a better deal over the 4Runner (starting at $40,155).
- Compared to the Toyota 4Runner, Ford’s midsize SUV offers the most powerful engine options.
- To take your off-roading to the next level, you need the Bronco, which offers much more in the way of rugged gear.
- Depending on which trim model you select, either of these five-seat SUVs can treat you to the high life, with upgrades like heated front seats and leather upholstery.
Best Price: 2023 Ford Bronco
The 2023 Bronco starts at $34,890, giving you the best deal on a rugged midsize SUV. The 2023 4Runner will set you back significantly more, with its MSRP of $40,155.
Fun-Loving Power: 2023 Ford Bronco
The 2023 Ford Bronco is not only the more powerful option, but it also offers an optional engine to create an even more powerful drive. The dune-hopping Raptor trim model is the most powerful option, with its exclusive turbocharged V6. And every Bronco includes four-wheel drive, so you have enough traction to hit the trail in earnest.
The 2023 Bronco powertrain specs include:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 325 lb-ft of torque) with seven-speed manual transmission or optional 10-speed automatic transmission
- Optional turbo 2.7L V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft) with 10-speed automatic
- Raptor turbo 3.0L V6 (418 hp, 440 lb-ft)
- Four-wheel drive
With the 4Runner, every trim model comes with the same engine. It’s not quite as powerful as the Bronco, and its five-speed transmission is a bit outdated. More gears mean more fuel savings at higher speeds, and the Bronco definitely has the advantage there, too. Finally, the 4Runner comes standard with rear-wheel drive, so you need to pay extra if you want trail-friendly four-wheel drive.
The 2023 4Runner powertrain specs include:
- 4.0L V6 (270 hp, 278 lb-ft)
- Five-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
Off-Road Performance: 2023 Ford Bronco
With standard four-wheel drive, every Bronco is ready for a rugged adventure. And the roster of standard features also includes some trail-friendly driving aids, such as Trail Turn Assist (which helps you make tight turns on the trail), hill start assist, and hill descent control. The Sasquatch package is widely available across the Bronco trim lineup. It upgrades your performance with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, beadlock-capable wheels, and lifted suspension.
This Ford SUV also offers some specialty models. For instance, the Bronco Everglades trim comes with a winch and an air snorkel to help you muck through swamps. The Bronco Raptor can speed across sand dunes, compliments of its exclusive 418-horsepower V6, Fox shock absorbers, and active exhaust.
The 4Runner is also designed for a capable ride. Although four-wheel drive isn’t standard, this necessary off-roading gear is optional. Its standard lineup includes a few rugged features, like roof rails (to help you pack your gear) and underbody skid plates (to protect the 4Runner’s underside from sharp objects). The TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium models can help you delve further into the wilderness, thanks to features like a locking rear differential and extra drive settings. However, the 4Runner never gets quite as fully loaded as the Bronco.
Interior Comfort & Technology: It’s (More or Less) a Tie!
Inside each of these midsize SUVs, you’ll find generous space for up to five passengers. Both are available as a variety of trim models, which add more and more features as you move up the list.
The 2023 Bronco comes standard with a lot of modern features, giving you lots of bang for your buck. These include LED headlights, an 8-inch central touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And you can upgrade these rugged SUVs with a surprising range of luxuries, such as leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. And don’t forget that the Bronco is a convertible SUV, with a removable (hard or soft) top and removable doors!
The 2023 4Runner might not be a convertible, but it does come standard with some great features, including keyless ignition and entry, a power rear window, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 4Runner also includes a standard infotainment setup with an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (the wired versions). Upgrades — such as built-in navigation and heated front seats – are also available.
Your Off-Roading SUV
Being a Toyota, the 2023 4Runner is a reliable option. However, it’s the 2023 Bronco that gives you the most advantages, from its lower price to its longer list of off-road-ready features. Not to mention the Bronco also delivers unique exterior styling and a handsomely appointed cabin!