2019 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

2019 Toyota 4Runner
2019 Toyota 4Runner
$35,310MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
$24,945MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Toyota 4Runner
$35,310MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
$24,945MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is the recommended choice, offering a better balance of technology, safety, and practicality.

Overview

MSRP

$35,310

MSRP

$24,945

Average price

$34,303

Average price

$19,048

Listings

736

Listings

949
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.7 out of 10
Pros
  • Off-road capability
  • Powerful engine
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Outdated technology
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Spacious
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Poor handling

2019 Toyota 4Runner Reviews Summary

If you’re in the market for a modern SUV capable of getting off the beaten path, you have only a handful of options. These include the 2- and 4-door Jeep Wranglers, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Toyota 4Runner. Of those, only the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and the 4Runner are 4-door SUVs that put off-road grit above all else.

While the Jeep Wrangler is only one year removed from a complete redesign that brought in many new technologies, the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is based on a design first introduced in 2009. For those keeping score at home, that means the DNA underpinning the 4Runner is a decade old. Yet picking which vehicle I’d choose as a daily drivable, off-road-capable SUV is a surprisingly difficult decision.

So where does an old goat like the 2019 Toyota 4Runner fit in the modern SUV market? Interestingly, the 4Runner's advanced age actually helps it in some respects.

2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Reviews Summary

The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of only two compact crossover SUV’s that currently offer third-row seating. (And the other is the hopelessly outdated Mitsubishi Outlander.) To fit the extra pair of surprisingly spacious seats, VW made the Tiguan much larger than average for its competitive set—which suits a vehicle that fills big shoes in VW dealerships. With five trim levels and prices that stretch from just under $26,000 to a bit over $40,000, the Tiguan is the German brand’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S.
No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

4.0L 270 hp V6

Engine

2.0L 184 hp I4

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

270 hp @ 5600 rpm

Horsepower

184 hp @ 4400 rpm

MPG City

17

MPG City

22

MPG Highway

21

MPG Highway

29
2019 Toyota 4Runner
2019 Toyota 4Runner
$35,310MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
$24,945MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2019 Toyota 4Runner
$35,310MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
$24,945MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan scores 7.7 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is the recommended choice, offering a better balance of technology, safety, and practicality.

Overview
MSRP
$35,310
$24,945
Average price
$34,303
$19,048
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.8
4.6
Expert reviews

7.2 out of 10

Read full review

7.7 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Off-road capability
  • Powerful engine
  • Plenty of cargo space
Cons
  • Outdated technology
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Poor fuel economy
Pros
  • Spacious
  • Easy-to-use technology
Cons
  • Poor handling
Summary

If you’re in the market for a modern SUV capable of getting off the beaten path, you have only a handful of options. These include the 2- and 4-door Jeep Wranglers, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, the Land Rover Range Rover, and the Toyota 4Runner. Of those, only the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and the 4Runner are 4-door SUVs that put off-road grit above all else.

While the Jeep Wrangler is only one year removed from a complete redesign that brought in many new technologies, the 2019 Toyota 4Runner is based on a design first introduced in 2009. For those keeping score at home, that means the DNA underpinning the 4Runner is a decade old. Yet picking which vehicle I’d choose as a daily drivable, off-road-capable SUV is a surprisingly difficult decision.

So where does an old goat like the 2019 Toyota 4Runner fit in the modern SUV market? Interestingly, the 4Runner's advanced age actually helps it in some respects.

The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of only two compact crossover SUV’s that currently offer third-row seating. (And the other is the hopelessly outdated Mitsubishi Outlander.) To fit the extra pair of surprisingly spacious seats, VW made the Tiguan much larger than average for its competitive set—which suits a vehicle that fills big shoes in VW dealerships. With five trim levels and prices that stretch from just under $26,000 to a bit over $40,000, the Tiguan is the German brand’s best-selling vehicle in the U.S.
Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
4.0L 270 hp V6
2.0L 184 hp I4
Drive Train
4X2
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
270 hp @ 5600 rpm
184 hp @ 4400 rpm
MPG City
17
22
MPG Highway
21
29
Look and feel
2019 Toyota 4Runner
7/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
8/10

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was designed with genuine off-road capability in mind, unlike many modern crossovers and SUVs that merely feigned ruggedness. Its aggressive front end, large tires, and flared fenders were not just for show; they provided steep approach and departure angles essential for trail driving. The 4Runner's style was a product of necessity, and its various trims, from the base SR5 to the range-topping TRD Pro, offered a mix of rugged features and creature comforts. The interior, though updated in 2015, remained one of the older designs on the market, with basic but functional features like an 8-way power driver’s seat and a 120-volt power outlet in the cargo area.

In contrast, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan underwent a complete overhaul in 2018, resulting in a stylish yet conservatively German design. Its clean lines and simple, contemporary look were complemented by a new flat logo and a horizontal grille. Inside, the Tiguan's interior was plain and featured hard black plastic surfaces, a far cry from VW's earlier reputation for superior interiors. However, the focus on electronics was evident, with an optional digital dashboard and a glass-covered touchscreen infotainment system that stood out for its smartphone-like appeal.

Performance
2019 Toyota 4Runner
9/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
7/10

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a single engine option: a 4.0-liter V6 producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, was more akin to a V8 with two cylinders removed, offering a truck-like driving experience. The 4Runner's off-road capabilities were enhanced by features like a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select system, and crawl control, especially in the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims. However, its decade-old powertrain resulted in poor fuel efficiency, with 4WD models achieving just 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. This engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered a snappy throttle response and minimal turbo lag. Despite its larger size and heavier weight compared to competitors, the Tiguan provided a comfortable and quiet ride, with well-insulated cabins and minimal road noise. Its handling was impacted by its size, but the Tiguan's suspension ensured a smooth driving experience, even on rough roads.

Form and function
2019 Toyota 4Runner
8/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
9/10

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner offered a spacious and practical interior, with ample head- and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Its fully enclosed cabin provided nearly 90 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it more practical for daily use compared to the Jeep Wrangler. The 4Runner's interior, though dated, featured large knobs and a simple layout, making it easy to operate even while wearing gloves.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan excelled in practicality, with a second row of seats that could slide up to seven inches, making the third row more usable. While the third row was not spacious, it was adequate for shorter adults and children. The Tiguan's cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 73.5 cubic feet of space in two-row models. The front seats offered plenty of hip and shoulder room, and the abundant glass and seating position made the Tiguan feel roomier than its competitors.

Technology
2019 Toyota 4Runner
6/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
9/10

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner lagged in technology, lacking modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its basic infotainment system, though straightforward, featured small fonts and an outdated interface. The SR5 Premium trim offered an upgraded Entune system with navigation and Siri Eyes Free, but overall, the 4Runner's tech offerings were limited.

In contrast, the 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan featured the MIB II infotainment system, which was among the best on the market. The 8-inch capacitive touchscreen in higher trims was responsive and user-friendly, with bright colors and a glass surface. The Tiguan also offered a fully digital instrument panel, customizable and reconfigurable, providing a modern and tech-savvy driving experience. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a WiFi hotspot.

Safety
2019 Toyota 4Runner
6/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
6/10

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner came with basic safety features, including a full array of airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. However, it lacked modern driver-assistance features, making it less family-friendly. The 4Runner received a 4 out of 5 stars overall rating from NHTSA but only 3 out of 5 in the rollover test.

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan improved its safety package, adding forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. VW's Car-Net telematics package provided remote locking, status checks, and vehicle location, enhancing safety and convenience. The Tiguan was rated a Top Safety Pick by IIHS for models with LED headlights.

Cost Effectiveness
2019 Toyota 4Runner
7/10
2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
7/10
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By: CarGurus + AI

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