It seems like everyone wants an off-road vehicle these days. The market for trucks and SUVs that will take you off the beaten path is exploding. Toyota and Jeep both have vehicles, such as the Toyota 4Runner and the Jeep Wrangler, that are known for their off-road capabilities. But how do you know what to get? Whether you’re looking for low-speed crawling, high-speed thrills, or an overlanding vehicle, here’s a look at Toyota vs. Jeep in an off-road capability showdown.
The Toyota 4Runner
When you hear TRD Pro attached to a Toyota name, you know it has off-road capabilities, and the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro is no different. This version of the 4Runner has a two-speed transfer case, electronically disconnecting anti-roll bars, and locking rear differentials. The independent front and rear suspensions allow it to absorb the bumpy off-road terrain while still providing a smooth ride when you head back on the road. Power comes from a V-6 gas engine that makes 270 horsepower, and it has a five-speed automatic transmission.
The Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a legend when it comes to off-road capabilities. Four-wheel drive comes standard no matter what trim or model you have, and it has more ground clearance than most other SUVs. When you come across a large boulder or log on the trail, the Wrangler has the approach and departure angles that make it capable of stepping right over it. The Wrangler differs from the Toyota 4Runner with its solid axles instead of independent suspensions.
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is better than ever at tackling rough terrain. The suspension has a 1.5-inch lift and forged control arms that allow the Fox Racing shocks to maximize the rebound provided by the lift. The 3.5-liter V-6 gas engine delivers 278 horsepower, and you can even get this truck with a six-speed manual transmission. If you prefer an automatic for everyday driving, a six-speed automatic comes standard.
The Jeep Gladiator
The Gladiator takes the capability of the Wrangler and adds a pickup truck bed to make it even more versatile. With 11 inches of ground clearance, this truck can drive over roots, branches, and rocks, and the approach and departure angles make easy work of large obstacles. You’ll never have to wonder if you have the power or capability to make it over the terrain ahead of you with drive modes that include Mud/Sand and Rock-Crawl. Just choose what you need and forge ahead.
The Gladiator offers two engine choices. It starts with a 3.6-liter V-6 with 285 horsepower, but you can also get a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6 with 260 horsepower and an impressive 442 pound-feet of torque.
In a showdown between Toyota and Jeep’s off-road capability, it’s no surprise that models such as the Toyota 4Runner and the Jeep Wrangler stay neck and neck. You can hit the trails with any of these and feel confident behind the wheel.
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