The Ford Bronco's vintage feel combined with serious off-road muscle makes it ever popular among buyers, and in 2026, it pays tribute to its past with a new legacy-inspired trim. But it has a formidable rival in the Toyota 4Runner. Find out how the 2026 Ford Bronco stacks up against the 2026 Toyota 4Runner so you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next SUV!
Key Takeaways
- A 60th Anniversary edition debuts in the Bronco lineup for '26.
- As of June 6, 2026, the Bronco trim pricing options are from $42,490 to $71,990. 4Runner models start a little higher.
- The 4Runner has no new changes this year.
What Are the Bronco and 4Runner Changes for 2026?
Ford debuts the 60th-Anniversary Bronco to the lineup, built on the Outer Banks' skeleton with the Sasquatch package and retro red-and-white paint. "60" badges and bucking-bronco logos throughout make this special-edition Bronco a real collector's item.
The Bronco trims are:
- Base: $42,490
- Big Bend: $42,990
- Black Diamond: $47,485
- Outer Banks: $50,085
- Badlands: $50,885
- Heritage Edition: $53,620
- 60th-Anniversary Edition: $61,545
- Stroppe Edition: $71,990
There's nothing new to report regarding changes for the 4Runner. Its trims are:
- SR5: $43,665
- TRD Sport: $50,145
- TRD Off-Road: $52,085
- TRD Sport Premium: $55,505
- TRD Off-Road Premium: $57,865
- Limited: $58,295
Modern Tech in the Bronco vs. 4Runner
The Bronco features a standard 12-inch touchscreen across the board with Ford's Sync 4 software, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. That's right, this system allows you to refresh software from anywhere.
Lower trims on the 4Runner feature a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, though a larger 14.0-inch display is available. You get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plenty of USB-C ports around the cabin, and a digital key system that turns your phone into a remote for locking and starting your SUV. There's also an available wireless charging pad.
Tech Features
| 2026 Ford Bronco |
2026 Toyota 4Runner |
| Standard 12-inch infotainment touchscreen |
Standard 8.0-inch touchscreen, optional 14.0-inch display |
| Ford Sync 4 system |
Toyota Audio Multimedia |
| Over-the-air software updates |
Multiple USB-C ports; digital key system |
Power and Off-Road Passion in the Bronco and 4Runner
The Bronco's power comes from a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 275 horses on regular gas. Premium gives it a little bump to 300 ponies and 325 lb-ft. You have the choice of a 7-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic. RWD comes standard.
When it comes to hitting the dirt, the Bronco is the real deal. You can click into FWD manually when you need to, and easily pop back out once you hit the pavement. Thanks to its independent front suspension and tight steering, the Bronco stays smooth, whether you're crawling over rocks or just driving to work.
Toyota does things a bit differently, giving the 4Runner a turbo 2.4-liter four-cylinder mated with an eight-speed automatic for 278 horsepower. It also starts with standard RWD, but you can upgrade to a full-time FWD system with high- and low-range settings for rough terrain. You can also pack the 4Runner with extra trail gear like locking rear differentials, disconnecting stabilizer bars, and a crawl control system.
Which SUV Is Your Trail-Ready Companion?
Whether you want to stick with the affordable base models or go all out for the 60th Anniversary Edition, the Bronco has a vibe and a features list that the 4Runner just can't touch. Give Brighton Ford a shout today to come check it out in person