Here’s the full scoop on that close three-way drag race:
Drag Race Results & Performance
1. i‑FORCE MAX Hybrid 4Runner (Trailhunter)
Powertrain: 2.4 L turbo I4 paired with a 48‑hp electric motor → 326 hp and 465 lb‑ft torque, the most powerful variant
Race performance: Overwhelming torque launch gives it the edge—easily beats both the standard 4Runner and Bronco, validating its hybrid dominance
2. Standard Turbo 4Runner
Power: 278 hp and 317 lb‑ft torque from the 2.4 L turbo alone .
Race performance: Beats the Bronco, thanks to strong turbo torque, but trails the hybrid.
3. Ford Bronco
Power: 2.3 L turbo with ~300 hp and 325 lb‑ft torque.
Race performance: Finishes third—close but ultimately outmatched off the line
Spec-by-Spec Overview
Model
HP / Torque
Weight Impact
0–60 mph Est.
4Runner Hybrid (i-FORCE MAX)
326 hp / 465 lb‑ft
+300–400 lb (battery pack)
Mid-6 sec (estimated)
4Runner Turbo
278 hp / 317 lb‑ft
Standard frame
High‑6 to low‑7 sec
Ford Bronco 2.3 L Turbo
~300 hp / 325 lb‑ft
Comparable to turbo 4Runner
Slightly behind 4Runner turbo
Race Summary
Hybrid Advantage: The i‑FORCE MAX hybrid’s instant electric torque gives it a massive launch advantage—it's the clear winner in every race
Turbo vs Bronco: The 4Runner turbo edges out over the Bronco, especially at the start. The Bronco’s power is solid, but it’s slightly slower off the line compared to the 4Runner’s robust torque curve
Beyond Drag: Real-World Considerations
Hybrid trade-offs: More torque and launch performance, but adds ~300–400 lb weight and sacrifices third-row seating and cargo space due to the battery pack
Turbo appeal: Strong performer, lighter, retains third-row option, and enough grunt for most drivers—especially off-road where weight matters.
Bronco perks: Better off-road capability with EvoRock, SDS, and options like Sasquatch. Slower in drag, but more trail-focused.
Takeaway
If straight-line performance matters most, the Hybrid 4Runner with its electric torque is the top performer—clearly the drag race champion.
If you want a blend of power, weight savings, third-row seating, the Turbo 4Runner hits that sweet spot.
If off-road tech and customization are your priority, the Bronco is still a strong choice—even if slower in drag sprints.