There are many options in the off-road-capable SUV segment. The Toyota 4Runner counts as one of the mainstays. For decades, it’s been the off-roader of choice for those who need a commuter vehicle but also want to attack the outdoors with gusto whenever they like.
However, if you’re looking to enjoy both the outdoors and your daily commute in some style, there might be a better option. The Land Rover Discovery Sport offers its own blend of elegance and capability.
Let’s take a look at how the 2025 Toyota 4Runner and 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport compare.
2025 Toyota 4Runner
Few vehicles are as revered by those who love off-roading as the Toyota 4Runner. For four decades, it’s been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for its capability and style, not to mention its legendary history of reliability and sky-high resale value. For the 2025 model year, the 4Runner receives a complete overhaul for the first time in 15 years, and it’s more capable than ever.
The 4Runner doesn’t just look athletic; it oozes athleticism. Now it offers two engine options, both of which provide ample motivation to traverse tough terrain. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while 4-wheel drive is available in a selectable mode or full-time in certain trim levels.
Buyers can choose from a 2-row/5-passenger configuration or add a third row to haul seven people, but only on 2WD SR5 or Limited trim levels. In the 2-row configuration you get a good amount of space, and depending upon the trim level — there are nine to choose from — you can get cloth or leather upholstery.
With its complete redesign the 4Runner now offers more modern technology on its standard 8- or available 14-inch touchscreen. The 4Runner comes standard with connectivity features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as plenty of active safety features including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and Toyota’s excellent Proactive Driving Assist. Pricing starts at $42,220, including destination fee.
Toyota 4Runner Highlights
Engine options: The 4Runner now gets either the i-FORCE, a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, or the i-FORCE MAX, which adds a hybrid motor to the setup. Lower trims come with the i-FORCE standard, but step into the higher trims and you’ll get the more powerful i-FORCE MAX that sees greatly improved gas mileage over outgoing models.
New trims: The Trailhunter and Platinum trim levels are all-new for 2025. The Trailhunter can get you out on the trail and ready to go far afield. The Platinum trim levels up the well-appointed Limited with even more with amenities like perforated leather-trimmed seats, heated second row seating, and a head-up display.
Off-road performance: Standard on the TRD Off-Road, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro variants, Multi-Terrain Select allows the driver to choose the right mode for the right conditions. Toyota also throws in Crawl control, a kind of slow-speed/off-road cruise control. Each off-road variant also gets its own unique shocks and suspension components.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the 4Runner models near you.
2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2024 model shown
If you want your off-roader to also be a luxurious, comfortable daily commuter, the Land Rover Discovery Sport might be more up your alley. It’s rare that a luxury SUV shows up equally adept at being both premium on the road and able to traverse tricky trails, but the Discover Sport overachieves at both.
Like the 4Runner, it offers optional 3-row seating. Unlike the 4Runner, the interior focuses on luxury and technology. The materials used in the cabin are high quality, and the first two rows of seats are comfortable and spacious. You won’t confuse it with the 4Runner.
The Discovery Sport derives its power from a 246-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive comes standard. Power feels more than adequate for your daily commute, and it will be potent enough while winding your way around mountain trails.
For additional control while you’re off-roading, it uses the Terrain Response 2 system to adapt to different off-road scenarios, as well as the standard All Terrain Progress Control, which is Land Rover’s form of low-speed cruise control for off-road driving. Pricing starts at $50,175, including destination fee.
Land Rover Discovery Sport Highlights
Luxury info tech: The SUV features the Pivi Pro infotainment system, which includes the 11.4-inch touchscreen with SiriusXM as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also features a Meridian premium audio system.
Adaptive performance: The optional Adaptive Dynamics system adds an adaptive suspension that constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts accordingly. It adds a Dynamic drive mode, delivering tighter body control and sharper handling. This feels more sophisticated than the suspension setup in the Toyota 4Runner.
R-Dynamic model: This specialized appearance package offers a more aggressive look with a sport front bumper, unique wheels, body-color rocker panels, and more.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Discovery Sport models near you.
Similarities
These vehicles offer impressive off-road capability and plenty of space for five passengers. A third row is optional in both.
Pricing
New 2025 Toyota 4Runner Prices
New 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport Prices
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors.
The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Toyota 4Runner vehicles and New 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership.
These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2025 Toyota 4Runner | 2025 Land Rover Discovery Sport | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 278 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 246 hp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm | 269 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic/RWD | 9-speed automatic/AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 20 city/26 highway/22 combined mpg | 19 city/23 highway/20 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 4WD; hybrid | |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | Not rated | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 | 7 |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches | 107.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 194 inches | 181.0 inches |
| Width | 77.9 inches | 81.5 inches |
| Height | 72.6 inches | 68.0 inches |
| Turning Diameter | NA | 38.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 37.8 inches | 38.7 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.8 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 34.8 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58 inches | 57.3 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 57.8 inches | 55.9 inches |
| Cargo Volume seats up/down | 48.4/90.2 cubic feet | 32.2/59.98 cubic feet |
Conclusion
These are two vehicles that accomplish the same tasks using very different approaches. Choosing one over the other is a matter of budget and need. If you’ve got a healthy budget and want a luxury SUV that’s also a capable off-roader, you might be tempted to pay the extra coin for the slightly smaller Land Rover Discovery Sport. If not, then the better option between these two is the tried-and-true Toyota 4Runner. It’s hard to beat the Toyota’s long history of reliability, resale value, and owner satisfaction.