This Comparison might run long however I want to get into the weeds a bit since these trucks are going to set you back 60k plus.
Having a extensive background on Toyota trucks here is what I have purchased.
2011 Tacoma 4x4, 2016 Tacoma 4x4, 2018 TRD ORP 4runner, 2019 Tundra SR5 (still have) 2024 TRDPRO 4runner, 2025 Land Cruiser premium and now the 2026 TRD ORP 4runner.
Just traded in my LC for the 4runner and here are some reasons why.
The LC resale value is not going to hold like the 4runner.
Example- Bought the 24 TRDPRO for 56k Traded it in to the dealer 1 year later for 53k for the Land Cruiser. I had 29k on the 4runner. Driving the truck for a year and only losing 3k is hard to beat. I cant think of another car with that resale value.
I traded the LC in for the 4runner and drove it for a year put 42k on it. I paid 72k and my trade in value was 58k. Cost me 12k for a year of driving. Now of course the LC had more miles but it was in pristine condition with every option the LC has.
LC likes
Comfort, better handling than the 4runner, less body roll and doesn't have the understeer I experience in the 4runner.
Sway bar disconnect, a big plus if your an offroader. This feature would only be in the trail hunter or TRDPRO 4runner.
Heads up display, You'll only get this option in the platinum 4runner.
More options in the instrument panel like maps ect. 4runner has limited selectable options.
LED daytime running lights, the 4runner is void of them unless you got with TRDPRO or Trailhunter.
Digital rear view mirror, I miss that and this ORP 4runner did not have that option. It can be had on this trim I couldnt find one with the discount I received.
Cool Box Nice feature not found on the 4runner. Not used a bunch but its nice to have in case you want cold drinks handy. You'll only fit 2-3 drinks in there though, its small.
LC Dislikes
Premium gas, at 7.00 bucks a gallon this had to go! 4runner with the same iforce max engine runs regular gas.
Small gas tank, a full tank yields 270 miles, 4runner isnt much better but my range is 300 and with regular gas.
Back window with visible wiper. 4Runner roll down back window was missed and reigns supreme.
Temp controls are toggles that have to be hit for every degree you want warmer or cooler. This is lame. The 4runner dials are quicker and more convenient.
The volume knob small/slippery and to the side of the unit. The 4runner is large with a rubberized grip in the center. Much better!
The Navi screen, long and narrow. Not great for navigating. The 4runners 14" screen is a lot nicer.
The soccer mom effect, it just doesnt have the cool looks the 4runner has.
The windshield is not raked, you will encounter rock chips much easier in the LC over the 4runner's raked windshield. I know one guy that had to replace the windshield in the LC 4 times. It isnt cheap and at 3800 per swap its a big deal.
Ground clearance, it isnt much but ever 1/2 inch counts and the LC rides too low for a Off road rig.
The storage bin in the rear if you have Iforce max with the battery. The flimsy piece of plastic and amount of storage is not comparable to the rigid fold up panel and space of the 4runner.
These are my reasons, some petty, some legit.
Looks are better in the 4runner.
Ride height although small difference still matters to me.
The back window with the wiper is an annoyance and not rolling down like the 4runner was huge for me and my dogs.
More cubbys in the 4runner for storage is a big plus for me.
Hope these observations help out some in your decision.
