Shopping for the best four-wheel drive (4WD) SUV to hit the trails with? Chances are, you’ve got both the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro on your list. But of the two rugged new SUVs, which is the best 4WD SUV for your trail-riding needs?

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers plenty of options

When compared to the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers a slew of options to choose from. All models come standard with 4WD. This year’s Wrangler is also available in two body styles, both a two-door SUV or a more spacious four-door SUV. All Jeep Wrangler models come standard with a removable soft-top too. However, all Jeep Wrangler models are also available with a hardtop. 

And when it comes to what’s under the hood? Jeep Wrangler models can be had with two different 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engines, a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine, a 6.4-liter V8, or a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Perhaps even more enticing is the all-new Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid Jeep that offers up to 21 miles of electric-only range, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) reports. 

As for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro? It comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine. It also comes standard with part-time 4WD. Unfortunately, the TRD Pro doesn’t offer any additional engine options. In fact, the 4Runner only offers one engine option. It can only be had as a four-door SUV too. 

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro does have its advantages

While the 2021 Jeep Wrangler offers significantly more options when it comes to what’s under the hood, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro does have its advantages. Take, for example, the 4Runner TRD Pro’s max tow rating. This year’s model is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. Meanwhile, all Jeep Wrangler models max out at 3,500 pounds.

The 4Runner TRD Pro also boasts better reliability ratings than its Wrangler competition. In fact, Consumer Reports awarded the 2021 Toyota 4Runner a five out of five reliability rating. Meanwhile, the organization gave this year’s new Jeep Wrangler a two out of five predicted reliability rating. The 4Runner also earned significantly higher scores in Consumer Reports’ road tests. 

How much do these new 4WD SUVs cost?

If you’re shopping on a strict budget, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro may not be the best fit for you. While a base model 4Runner costs approximately $36,765, the TRD Pro rings in at $50,745. That’s a significant price difference. As for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler?

As it turns out, it’s a cheaper alternative to the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro. Base models start at $28,900, making it the ideal pick for those in the market for a new SUV under $30,000. Several Jeep Wrangler models cost well under $40,000 too.

Which is the best 4WD SUV for you?

If you’re planning to hit the trails anytime soon, you really can’t go wrong with either of these 4WD SUVs. But when it comes to choosing the best 4WD SUV for you? We recommend taking both the 2021 Jeep Wrangler and the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro out for a test drive.