I think a 4Runner would have more ground clearance and better options in terms of wheels & off-road tires. Body-on-frame means that the on-road handling will not be anywhere near that of the Ridgeline, but of course will be stronger off-road.
One thing to watch out for on the 4Runner is the transfer case - they tend to leak, and they're very expensive to seal back up. Typically around a $2,000 repair at the dealer.
The 4Runner has a locking center differential (located inside the transfer case) and the usual brake-activated traction control, so it'll be more capable off-road than the Ridgeline.
The Ridgeline is absolutely the winner so far as storage. Not only the in-bed trunk, but interior pockets too.
I haven't checked prices recently, but I would guess the 4Runner is more expensive than a LX Ridgeline. Like a lot more.
Tough decision.
Chip H.
One thing to watch out for on the 4Runner is the transfer case - they tend to leak, and they're very expensive to seal back up. Typically around a $2,000 repair at the dealer.
The 4Runner has a locking center differential (located inside the transfer case) and the usual brake-activated traction control, so it'll be more capable off-road than the Ridgeline.
The Ridgeline is absolutely the winner so far as storage. Not only the in-bed trunk, but interior pockets too.
I haven't checked prices recently, but I would guess the 4Runner is more expensive than a LX Ridgeline. Like a lot more.
Tough decision.
Chip H.
