Which Lexus IS the same as the 4Runner?
The Lexus IS and Toyota 4Runner are both popular vehicles, but they are not the same model. The Lexus IS is a luxury sedan, while the Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV. Despite some similarities in their names, these two vehicles have distinct features, capabilities, and target audiences.
Lexus IS: A Luxury Sedan
The Lexus IS is a compact luxury sedan that has been in production since 1998. It is part of Lexus' lineup of premium vehicles, known for their high-quality craftsmanship, advanced technology, and refined driving dynamics. The Lexus IS competes with other luxury sedans such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The Lexus IS is available in several trim levels, each with its own unique features and performance capabilities.
Toyota 4Runner: A Midsize SUV
The Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, is a midsize SUV that has been in production since 1984. It is known for its rugged off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and reliable performance. The 4Runner is part of Toyota's lineup of SUVs and trucks, which also includes the Tacoma, Tundra, and RAV4. Unlike the Lexus IS, the 4Runner is designed for outdoor adventures and can handle challenging terrain with ease.
Key Differences
- Vehicle Type: The Lexus IS is a luxury sedan, while the Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV.
- Drivetrain: The Lexus IS is available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the 4Runner is primarily offered with four-wheel drive.
- Seating Capacity: The Lexus IS seats up to five passengers, while the 4Runner can accommodate up to seven passengers.
- Cargo Space: The 4Runner offers significantly more cargo space than the Lexus IS, making it better suited for outdoor activities and hauling larger items.
- Off-Road Capability: The 4Runner is designed for off-road use, with features like a rugged body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and available off-road-oriented packages. The Lexus IS is primarily focused on on-road performance and comfort.
In summary, while the Lexus IS and Toyota 4Runner may share a similar-sounding name, they are distinctly different vehicles with different purposes and target audiences. The Lexus IS is a luxury sedan focused on on-road performance and comfort, while the Toyota 4Runner is a midsize SUV designed for off-road adventures and outdoor enthusiasts.
Is there a Lexus version of 4Runner?
The Lexus GX is the luxury equivalent of the Toyota 4Runner, built on a similar platform but with upscale features. Key differences include the GX's more powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, greater towing capacity, and a more luxurious interior with premium materials. The 4Runner has a more rugged, utilitarian interior and is often seen as the more off-road-focused vehicle, though both are very capable.
This video compares the Toyota 4Runner and the Lexus GX, highlighting their differences in terms of luxury, engine power, and other features: 1mEdmunds CarsYouTube · Jul 17, 2025
| Feature | Lexus GX | Toyota 4Runner |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo V6 (349 hp) | 4.0L V6 (270 hp) |
| Horsepower | 349 hp | 270 hp |
| Towing Capacity | 9,096 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Interior | Premium leather, luxury finishes, massage function on some trims | Durable, water-resistant materials |
| Technology | Premium audio, advanced voice assistant | Advanced off-road features (CRAWL Control, Multi-Terrain Select) |
| Suspension | Available Adaptive Variable Suspension and Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (eKDSS) | Standard and available off-road suspension options |
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This video discusses the similarities and differences between the Toyota 4Runner and the Lexus GX, including their interior and exterior designs, and suggests which one might be a better fit for the viewer: 43sMichael TomkoYouTube · Jun 20, 2025
What car is most similar to a Toyota 4Runner?
Cars similar to 2025 Toyota 4Runner
- 2025 Toyota 4Runner. #21 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Jeep Wrangler. #24 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee. #5 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
- 2025 Ford Bronco. #15 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.
Is the Lexus GX 460 the same as a 4Runner?
No, the Lexus GX 460 and Toyota 4Runner are not the same; while they share a platform and body-on-frame construction, the GX is a luxury-oriented SUV with a V8 engine, standard third row, and more premium features, whereas the 4Runner is a more rugged, utilitarian, and less expensive option. The GX offers a smoother ride, quieter cabin, and more luxurious interior compared to the 4Runner.
| Feature | Lexus GX 460 | Toyota 4Runner |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4.6L V8 (301 hp) | 4.0L V6 (270 hp) |
| Drivetrain | Standard full-time four-wheel drive | Part-time four-wheel drive (standard on most trims) |
| Interior | More premium and luxurious with higher-grade materials, standard amenities like heated/ventilated front seats, and often a standard third row | More rugged and utilitarian design |
| Exterior | More refined styling with a signature spindle grille and chrome accents | More classic, rugged aesthetic with bold lines |
| Ride and Handling | Smoother and quieter ride, with more powerful and smooth V8 engine | More utilitarian feel, potentially a nimbler feel on narrower trails due to a narrower body |
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Is Lexus LX or GX bigger?
The Lexus LX is bigger than the Lexus GX in length, width, and wheelbase. The LX is approximately 200.5 inches long compared to the GX at 192.1 inches, and it is also wider and has a longer wheelbase, which results in more interior and cargo space.
You can watch this video to learn about the exterior and interior differences between the 2024 Lexus GX and LX: 1mCar ConfectionsYouTube · Aug 25, 2024
| Feature | Lexus LX | Lexus GX |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 200.5 inches | 192.1 inches |
| Width | 78.3 inches | 74.2 inches |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 inches | 109.8 inches |
| Cargo Volume | More overall interior space, but cargo area is smaller with the third row up in the 7-passenger model compared to the GX | More cargo capacity behind the first row, but less than the LX with the third row removed |
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- Exterior dimensions: The LX is significantly longer and wider than the GX, making it a more substantial vehicle overall.
- Interior and cargo space: The greater exterior dimensions of the LX translate to more overall interior space. While the GX may have more cargo capacity behind the first row, the LX offers more space with the third row folded down, making it better for carrying larger items.
