The Jeep Wrangler has attracted a loyal following of enthusiasts. It’s a dominant figure in the off-roading scene. The Jeep brand is an iconic American brand with a rich and authentic history that dates back to the 1940s. The Jeep Wrangler is a little better off-road and has a more charming interior. But in some ways the Toyota 4Runner is better.

The Toyota 4Runner also has a steady fan base. Japanese brand Toyota has been around since the 1930s. The 4Runner competes with the Wrangler in terms of what it means to be a rugged SUV that is ready for adventure. 

Yes, the Wrangler may be the rougher rock climber but the 4Runner is probably a better daily driver. They both have similar qualities so they are often compared. Here’s five reasons the Jeep Wrangler is worse than the Toyota 4Runner.

Reason 1: safety

Safety is a big one. The Jeep Wrangler’s safety ratings are lower than the Toyota 4Runner. Those ratings drop lower when you factor the classic Wrangler with its top off, sans doors option.

All Toyota vehicles now come standard with the Toyota safety suite that includes steering assist, a system capable of detecting unintentional drifting in order to automatically make small corrective steering tweaks to help keep your vehicle in the lane. The Jeep Wrangler safety technology pales in comparison.

Reason 2: space

The Toyota 4Runner offers competitive off-road capabilities. In addition, it’s far roomier. The Jeep Wrangler’s 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space don’t even compare with the 4Runner’s 47.2 cubic feet of cargo.

The Toyota 4Runner can also take on more weight, with a max payload over 400 pounds more capable than the Jeep Wrangler’s payload of 1,052 pounds.

Reason 3: on-road

The Toyota 4Runner would probably make a better car for someone that wanted a daily driver with the option for hitting the trails on the weekend. With its independent suspension, the Toyota 4Runner is a smoother ride. The Jeep Wrangler is said to be more jouncy. While its solid axles make it somewhat superior for off-roading, drivers sacrifice in the comfort of the ride.

Reviews say the Toyota 4Runner is quieter on the highway, too. The Jeep Wrangler is a louder on-road experience at speed. Especially with a soft top.

Reason 4: more friends, more fun

If you are looking for a big road tripper with room for a few extras folks the 4Runner will have to take precedent over the Wrangler. With its third row, the Toyota 4Runner has room for 7 or 8 –– that’s 2-3 more than the Jeep Wrangler’s accommodations for 5.

As it lacks a third row, the Jeep Wrangler cannot carry as many friends on board. In addition, the 4Runner’s rear seats reportedly offer ample enough space. Though the interior of the 4Runner is simple, it’s a more comfortable space that is capable of taking on more people and more cargo.

The 4Runner or the Wrangler?

Though the Wrangler dominates with its off-road utility, the 4Runner may be more versatile overall. If you are looking for the SUV that can do it all pretty well, the Toyota 4Runner will be your choice.