Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee | The Best Model Year For Every Budget (2024)

A few vehicles deserve credit for laying the groundwork for SUVs’ popularity. Among them are the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee, which embraced the idea of go-anywhere vehicles at a time when station wagons and minivans dominated school pickup lines and grocery store parking lots.

The first 4Runner, based on the iconic Hilux pickup, was introduced in the U.S. for the 1984 model year. In 1993, Jeep launched the Grand Cherokee with great fanfare and success, seeking to expand on its well-received XJ Cherokee. Decades later, both vehicles remain mainstays for their respective manufacturers.

This popularity extends into the used car arena for the 4Runner and Grand Cherokee, with each offering a different approach to the SUV formula. The 4Runner features a rugged body-on-frame platform, giving it more rugged off-road prowess.

In contrast, the Grand Cherokee is built around unibody construction (the frame and body are integrated into a single unit). This unibody architecture provides smoother road manners. However, Jeep has given the Grand Cherokee more robust off-pavement capabilities via increased ground clearance and sophisticated all-wheel drive systems.

Another difference is seating capacity. The 4Runner comes with two or three rows, while the Grand Cherokee is strictly a two-row vehicle. Jeep launched the three-row Grand Cherokee L in 2021, but that’s a distinct model and not part of this comparison.

Choosing between a used Toyota 4Runner and a Jeep Grand Cherokee comes down to several factors. Each vehicle has individual characteristics, like the 4Runner’s trade-off of less refined handling for greater off-road abilities, while the Grand Cherokee offers the opposite with a more upscale twist. Seating capacity is another.

In addition, a second-hand Grand Cherokee is usually cheaper than an equivalent 4Runner. This is due primarily to Toyotas’ exceptionally low depreciation compared to Jeeps’ high depreciation (the Grand Cherokee loses its value twice as fast as the 4Runner).

Shoppers may be surprised to learn that both vehicles have similar engine reliability. In fact, newer Grand Cherokees actually see fewer check engine lights than 4Runners. These Toyotas aren’t as bulletproof as their reputation would suggest.

Safety-focused buyers will also take comfort in the Grand Cherokee’s better safety scores.

But let’s not undercut the 4Runner when comparing it against the Jeep. These Toyotas are more likely to reach high-mileage status and cost owners less to operate. On average, 4Runners have lower maintenance and repair costs and get better fuel economy.

Keep reading to see how this Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee contest turns out. You can learn about resale values, depreciation, reliability, longevity, maintenance costs, safety, and fuel economy—essentials to understand to make a more informed car-buying decision.

Other match-ups to review include Pathfinder vs 4Runner, Tahoe vs Expedition, Suburban vs. Tahoe, Jetta vs. Civic, Sentra vs. Corolla, Outback vs. Forester, 4Runner vs. Highlander, RAV4 vs. CR-V, Civic vs. Corolla, Pilot vs. Highlander, and Odyssey vs. Sienna.

See the methodology for the table above.

Before you respond to the “For Sale” ad, check out this How to Buy a Used Car article for a step-by-step checklist.

Price History Comparison | Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Average Market Value – Based on Owners’ Self-Reported Mileages | Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Shoppers curious about Toyota 4Runners (green) and Jeep Grand Cherokees (gray) will focus on this chart; it’s based on private transactions reported by Kelley Blue Book (KBB). The model year value averages are also adjusted according to owner-reported mileage from FIXD surveys.

This extra calculation provides a more realistic look at the market but can impact prices. For instance, owners of 2002, 2007, 2013, and 2014 4Runners reported much higher mileage than their Grand Cherokee peers, resulting in somewhat depressed values for these Toyotas. Conversely, owners report high mileage for 2006, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2017 Grand Cherokees.

Regardless of these fluctuations, one thing is inescapable: used Grand Cherokees are cheaper than second-hand 4Runners. Some of this is due to original MSRPs. For example, in 2008, the least expensive Grand Cherokee sold for $32,530 versus $34,804 for a base 4Runner. There’s a greater difference for 2012, with the Grand Cherokee starting at $30,160 versus $34,570 for the 4Runner. In 2016, a base Grand Cherokee stickered at $33,290 compared to $37,030 for a similar 4Runner.

Add depreciation to the value calculation, making the price differences between the 4Runner and Grand Cherokee more understandable. Depreciation for the 4Runner is among the best for this class of vehicles. The Grand Cherokee can’t make such a claim.

CarEdge reports that a new 4Runner loses 19% of its value over five years, while the Grand Cherokee has a 38% depreciation rate over the same period. That’s twice as bad. So, combine lower MSPRs and high depreciation, and it’s no wonder the Grand Cherokee is cheaper.

As a reminder, the KBB pricing covers private-party sales; retail prices are often 30% to 50% higher. Shopping for an older vehicle or one with higher mileage is a workaround for these higher prices.

Be sure to read our Best and Worst Years series of articles highlighting the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee winners and losers.

Depreciation vs. Maintenance Expenses

Like savvy investors hunting for undervalued stocks, smart used car buyers look for great deals. They focus on specific model years that have significantly decreased prices compared to when they were new but don’t come with high maintenance costs. This approach of finding lower-priced cars is like an investor’s “buy the dip” strategy.

Taking this approach with a 4Runner or Grand Cherokee purchase requires focusing on older model years. In the case of the 4Runner, this window covers examples from 2002 to 2006. Shop for anything newer and you’ll feel it in the wallet due to lower depreciation and higher upkeep expenses.

The Grand Cherokee has an identical target zone: 2002 to 2006. The examples combine low residual value with significantly below-average total ownership costs.

But don’t assume every example within these ranges is a smart buy. Learn more by reviewing the best and worst years of the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee. There’s also an at-a-glance summary towards the end of this article.

Reliability Comparison | Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

As mentioned in previous comparisons (Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Wrangler and Nissan Pathfinder vs. Toyota 4Runner), the 4Runner’s engine reliability doesn’t equal its reputation. There are several years with below-average FIXD Reliability Scores. To be expected, this poor performance is concentrated among older years, but there were a couple of years (2016 and 2019) when the 4Runner didn’t live up to expectations.

The Grand Cherokee gets similar grades overall. Among the 21 analyzed model years, the Jeep outscores its Toyota competition for seven years, compared to eight years when the 4Runner is on top. The two vehicles have tied engine reliability scores for six years.

However, the results present a different image when comparing more recent examples. Among model years since 2010, the Grand Cherokee shows better engine reliability for six out of the dozen years. The 4Runner can only claim better results for two years. The vehicles tie for four years. In short, newer Grand Cherokees have fewer check engine lights than their 4Runner counterparts.

Yet, it’s not unusual for perceptions to differ from reality. 4Runner owners love their cars regardless of the frequency of flashing dashboard warning lights. Owner reliability scores for these Toyotas are impressive, with all years (except 2017) getting an 8 or better.

Meanwhile, owner reliability ratings for the Grand Cherokee are mixed. Examples from before 2010 mostly hover in the 5-8 range. However, the 2008 scored a 9. Since the 2010 model year, these Jeeps have more consistent rankings of 8-10.

Review the Best and Worst Years articles on the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee to learn more about these vehicles’ FIXD Reliability and Owner Reliability Scores.

Longevity Comparison | Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Longevity is a vital consideration for used car shoppers, especially when high-mileage vehicles are involved. The last thing anyone wants is to purchase a car on its last legs. FIXD surveys show 150,000-200,000 miles is nothing unusual for 4Runner and Grand Cherokee owners. Some of these Toyotas have crossed into the 200,000-mile territory, but the Jeeps aren’t too far behind.

Looking behind owner surveys provides additional insight into the lifespan of these SUVs. Listings from autotrader.com (as of April 9, 2024) show 920 4Runners and 1,391 Grand Cherokees available from the 2001-2012 model years. Older examples are used in this unscientific review because they typically have higher mileage.

Sorting for vehicles with 150,000-200,000 miles shows 341 (37.1%) 4Runners and 368 (26.5%) Grand Cherokees for sale. The difference in percentages suggests that 4Runners are more likely to be on the road longer, but the results aren’t conclusive.

Turning to examples with 200,000 miles or more does provide a definitive answer with the availability of 295 (32.1%) 4Runners and 101 (7.3%) Grand Cherokees. The percentage gap is substantial, leaving no doubt that these Toyotas will be around longer. Indeed, some Grand Cherokees can make it to 200,000 miles, but the numbers show this is more likely to occur with a 4Runner.

For a more thorough look at longevity, review the individual articles on the best and worst years of the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Who Should Buy These Cars: The Legacy of Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep 4Runner

Given the similar functionality of the 4Runner and Grand Cherokee, comparable usage profiles aren’t unusual. Both are relied on for family transportation (37% for the 4Runner and 44% for the Grand Cherokee). However, it’s interesting that the 4Runner still doesn’t see greater use with families, even with an available third row.

That said, both vehicles see similar activity levels, about one in four, for “lots of driving” that involves commuting and road trips. There’s also near-matching use for hauling and towing (8% for the 4Runner and 10% for the Grand Cherokee).

Meanwhile, the 4Runner’s 18% use rate for outdoor and off-road activities is double that of the Grand Cherokee. This indicates that despite this Jeep’s off-pavement credentials, it’s more likely to spend time in driveways and parking lots.

Driver Experience | A Summary of The Top 10 Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee Posts:

The conversations on Reddit about the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee showcase many different points of view. Here are some highlights from Reddit: r/whatcarshouldIbuy.

Reliability

Redditors frequently cite the 4Runner’s reliability as a significant advantage. It’s known for its durable engine and ability to withstand harsh conditions. In contrast, the Grand Cherokee is perceived as less reliable, with some users expressing concerns over its long-term durability and maintenance costs. One user mentioned, “4Runner: better in reliability. Drives like a truck. Ancient looking interior and dated tech. Very capable off-road.”

Comfort and Performance

The Grand Cherokee is praised for its more comfortable ride, modern interior, and updated technology features. Commenters often highlight its superior on-road behavior, describing it as “drives like a modern midsize SUV (comfortable). Tech is really good.” Conversely, the 4Runner is noted for its “truck-like ride quality” and outdated interior but is lauded for its off-road capabilities and higher sitting position, which some users prefer.

Functionality

Discussions around functionality focus on the 4Runner’s off-road prowess and simpler, more rugged design, which is seen as less likely to encounter tech-related issues. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, however, is often recognized for its luxurious feel and better handling on paved roads.

Resale

Resale value is a strong point for the 4Runner, with users noting it retains value better over time than the Grand Cherokee.

Reddit Recap

Despite its less modern interior and tech features, Reddit users tend to favor the Toyota 4Runner for its reliability, off-road capability, and resale value. On the other hand, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is appreciated for its comfort, driving experience, and advanced technology but is often criticized for reliability concerns and high depreciation. The choice between the two depends largely on the intended use, with the 4Runner being preferred for rugged, off-road activities and the Grand Cherokee for a more comfortable and technologically updated on-road experience.

Year-by-Year Comparison | Toyota 4Runner vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Sources:

• KBB Values: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee, with typical mileage for that respective model year.
• Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov.
• Annual Maintenance/Repairs: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Grand Cherokee owners.
• Safety Ratings: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph. We also collected IIHS Awards for this
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