Here are two SUVs that have credible credentials when it comes to conquering the off-road trails. But which trail runner has an edge when it comes down to a knockout, drag race on pavement — the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon or Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro?
By the Numbers
The TFLcar 2015 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has more than 30,000 miles on the odometer after traveling to more than 40 states over the past year. The 3.6-liter V6 and 5-speed automatic aren’t exactly factory fresh, but it still pulls like an ox using its 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Behind the wheel, the Wrangler never feels short on power — even at highway speeds. Cruising down the interstate, hopping from one mud pit to another, the Jeep Wrangler JK never disappoints. The Rubicon tips the scales at 4,132 pounds.
Lining up next to the Jeep is a 2016 4Runner TRD Pro fresh from the Toyota press fleet. The square-shouldered truck still uses a body-on-frame platform, but it is the ‘go-to’ SUV for purists who cannot bear to buy a car-based crossover. Performance starts with Toyota’s veritable 4.0-liter V6 and 5-speed automatic. The combo sends 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque to a highly capable part-time 4WD Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) system. The 4Runner TRD Pro weighs in at 4,750 pounds.
Care to guess which off-road maniac will cross the finish line first? Watch the latest TFLcar ‘mashup’ drag race video to find out.
