2024 Toyota 4Runner vs 2025 Toyota Sienna

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a nostalgic nod to the past, with its design largely unchanged since its 2010 redesign. Despite minor updates over the years, it retained a boxy shape that was fitting for an all-terrain vehicle, even if it seemed outdated compared to modern SUVs. Its flared fenders and rugged grille gave it a robust appearance, while the TRD Pro model added skid plates and all-terrain tires for a more adventurous look. Inside, the 4Runner showed its age with analog instruments and an eight-inch infotainment screen, which might have appealed to those with a fondness for older styles but seemed antiquated to others. The interior featured hard plastics typical of off-road vehicles, though cushioned panels provided some comfort.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Sienna attempted to break away from the traditional minivan mold with its trapezoidal grille and upswept body lines, though it still resembled a minivan. The Platinum trim introduced new wheel designs and a Magnetic Gray paint option. Despite its attempts at style, the Sienna prioritized practicality, offering seating for up to eight and a hands-free power liftgate. The interior featured power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats, though they were not the most comfortable for long drives. The second-row captain’s chairs with leg rests were popular among younger passengers, and the third row accommodated adults comfortably. However, the Sienna's cargo capacity was limited compared to rivals due to its non-removable second-row seats.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. While these figures were competitive with the Bronco and Wrangler, the 4Runner's five-speed automatic transmission lagged behind the ten-speed and eight-speed options of its competitors. The TRD Pro model came with standard four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case, while other trims offered rear-wheel drive with optional four-wheel drive. On-road, the 4Runner felt sluggish, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration and a loud engine that struggled for air. Its soft suspension, while beneficial off-road, resulted in body roll and floatiness on highways. The 4Runner's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, suitable for small campers.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission, delivering a net horsepower of 245. While this seemed modest for a vehicle seating up to eight and towing 3,500 pounds, the electric motor's torque provided adequate acceleration. The Sienna excelled in fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined, though our test model averaged 26.3 mpg. Handling was predictable but uninspiring, with squishy steering and brakes that overheated during hard use. The Sienna XSE offered a sportier suspension, but the standard setup prioritized a smooth ride. The hybrid system was quiet in city driving, though the CVT became noisy under hard acceleration.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior was straightforward, with large climate-control dials and driveline levers that were easy to use. Visibility was excellent, thanks to forward-positioned roof pillars. The front seats offered ample space, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range might have been an issue for taller drivers. The second row provided generous legroom, but headroom was restricted due to elevated seating. Cargo space was substantial, with 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 89.7 cubic feet with seats stowed. However, the lack of remote seat releases and a powered liftgate were drawbacks. The 4Runner's sliding rear window and hitch receiver were practical features.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna focused on practicality, with power-adjustable front seats and second-row captain’s chairs that slid and reclined. The third row was adult-friendly, and the hands-free power liftgate was a convenient addition. Storage was ample, though finding secure spots for large water bottles was challenging. The Sienna offered 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 75.2 cubic feet with seats stowed. Maximum capacity was 101 cubic feet, less than rivals due to non-removable second-row seats. This design choice reflected Toyota's belief that most owners rarely removed seats, though it limited flexibility for large loads.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its eight-inch touchscreen was small and lacked off-road-specific apps. The TRD Pro model featured a 15-speaker JBL audio system, though road noise often overshadowed its quality. Additional terrain controls were available, but their pictogram labels required consulting the owner's manual for full understanding. Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select systems enhanced off-road capability, while differential controls maximized traction.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen for its Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The Platinum trim included a four-zone climate control system, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The TAM system offered various connected services, with a digital assistant that responded well to commands. The JBL audio system, however, produced excessive bass. The Sienna's climate control and camera systems were appreciated, though the head-up display could benefit from additional features.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection, five stars for side impacts, and three stars for rollover evaluations. IIHS ratings were similarly varied, with "Good" scores for moderate frontal overlap and side protection tests, but "Marginal" and "Poor" results in newer tests. The 4Runner included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. However, its alerts were often oversensitive.

The 2025 Toyota Sienna featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which offered forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The system generally performed well, though lane-centering assist could waver. The Sienna's adaptive cruise control required vigilance in urban areas. New for 2025 was a rear-seat reminder system, alerting drivers to movement in the cabin. NHTSA awarded the Sienna a five-star overall rating, though it scored three stars for driver protection in frontal impacts.