Toyota 4Runner vs Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Which Off-Road SUV Wins
You need an SUV that handles hot weather, dunes, and daily traffic. Two popular choices are the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. Both offer strong off-road skills, but which one suits UAE roads better?
The Toyota 4Runner is famous for its toughness and long life. The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk brings style and good on-road comfort. Let's see which one is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Toyota 4Runner uses a body-on-frame design. This makes it strong for rough desert driving and heavy loads. It looks bold and ready for adventure, with high ground clearance and rugged looks.
The Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk has a unibody design. It feels more car-like on highways and offers a smoother ride in city traffic. The Trailhawk trim adds off-road extras like skid plates and special tyres.
Performance and Engine
Both SUVs use petrol engines and 4WD systems.
- Toyota 4Runner: 2.4L turbo engine with around 270-278 hp and 376 Nm torque. It delivers strong power for climbing dunes.
- Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: 3.2L V6 with 272 hp. It offers smooth power and good control on mixed roads.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both are built for adventure, but the 4Runner stands out in real UAE desert conditions.
- 4Runner: Higher ground clearance, locking differentials in TRD trims, and a proven Toyota 4x4 system. It conquers deep sand and rocks easily.
- Cherokee Trailhawk: Selec-Terrain system, low-range gearing, and air suspension in some models. It handles light off-road well but may struggle more in extreme dunes.
Interior, Comfort, and Features
- 4Runner: Simple, durable cabin with good space for five. It has modern tech like a touchscreen and safety aids.
- Cherokee Trailhawk: More premium feel with comfy seats and better infotainment. It's quieter on highways.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Both use petrol and average 8-10 km/l in mixed driving. The Cherokee Trailhawk may edge out slightly in city use. Maintenance is key in the UAE. Toyota parts are easy to find, and long-term costs are low.
Safety Features
Both come with airbags, ABS, stability control, and hill descent. Toyota's safety tech often scores high in reliability tests.
Price in the UAE
Prices vary by trim and dealer.
- Toyota 4Runner: Starts around AED 170,000 for TRD Off-Road.
- Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk: Around AED 130,000.
Key Specs Comparison Table
Feature |
Toyota 4Runner |
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk |
|
Starting Price (AED) |
~170,000 |
~130,000 |
|
Engine |
2.4L Turbo Petrol |
3.2L V6 Petrol |
|
Horsepower |
270-278 hp |
272 hp |
|
Torque |
376 Nm |
~320 Nm |
|
Drivetrain |
4WD |
4WD |
|
Fuel Economy (km/l) |
~8-10 |
~9.9 |
|
Ground Clearance |
High (TRD trims) |
Good (Trailhawk) |
|
Build Type |
Body-on-Frame |
Unibody |
|
Best For |
Desert dunes, long-term use |
City + light off-road |
Which One Should You Buy in the UAE
If you love weekend desert trips and want a tough, reliable SUV that lasts years in UAE heat and sand, go for the Toyota 4Runner. Its legendary durability and resale value make it a smart choice for most UAE drivers.
If you want a stylish SUV with better on-road comfort and a lower starting price, the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk is great for mixed use.
Where to Buy Tyres for these Vehicles
To get the most from either SUV off-road, fit quality tyres. PitstopArabia has a huge range of 4x4 and all-terrain tyres. Order online at pitstoparabia.com, choose your installer, and get free fitting across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and more UAE cities.
FAQs
Which is better for off-roading in UAE deserts?
The Toyota 4Runner wins with its stronger build and proven desert performance.
Is the Toyota 4Runner more reliable than the Jeep Cherokee?
Yes, Toyota is known for fewer breakdowns and lower long-term costs in harsh conditions.
Which has better fuel efficiency?
They are similar, but the Cherokee may do slightly better in city driving.
Where can I buy good tyres for these SUVs in UAE?
PitstopArabia offers top-quality 4x4 tyres for online shopping, with free fitting nationwide. Visit pitstoparabia.com.










