Overview & Reviews

Few SUVs have the level of name recognition that the Toyota 4Runner enjoys. Launched in 1984, the 4Runner has always been Toyota's smaller and more affordable complement to the legendary Land Cruiser. Even though the first 4Runner was little more than Toyota's compact two-door pickup with a removable top, it was nonetheless rugged and tough. Over time, the 4Runner has earned its own reputation as a durable vehicle -- off-road and on.

During the SUV-crazy '90s, Toyota introduced more models, which allowed the company to move the 4Runner up a few notches in size, accoutrements and price. Still truck-based and still outfitted with a solid rear axle, the current Toyota 4Runner boasts old-school brawn. A midsize crossover SUV will likely be a better choice for most shoppers, considering a crossover's more carlike handling and fuel economy, but the 4Runner continues to be a top choice for a dependable SUV that's both comfortable, yet rugged enough for recreational off-road duty.

Current Toyota 4Runner
The current Toyota 4Runner is based on the same platform as the rugged FJ Cruiser. As ever, it has a trucklike solid rear axle for superior off-road performance. There are three trim levels: SR5, Trail and Limited. All are powered by a 4.0-liter V6 that makes 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The sole transmission offered is a five-speed automatic. The SR5 and Limited can be had in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (part-time system on SR5, full-time system on the Limited), while the Trail comes only with part-time 4WD.

The SR5 comes standard with alloy wheels, skid plates, foglights, air-conditioning, cruise control, a rearview camera, full power accessories with a power rear window, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system and an eight-speaker audio system. The Trail adds a locking rear differential, Crawl Control (which automatically modulates the engine and brakes when ascending or descending hills), off-road tires and water-resistant upholstery.

The luxurious Limited gets Toyota's X-REAS adaptive suspension dampers (for controlling body roll), keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control and an upgraded audio system. Major options include a third-row seat and a navigation system. The available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) can disconnect the front and rear stabilizer bars at speeds below 40 mph for greater wheel articulation over uneven terrain.

In reviews, we've been pleased with the Toyota 4Runner's excellent off-road ability and strong V6 engine. It's also useful for carrying people and cargo thanks to its available third-row seat and 90 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Just don't expect it to drive like a car-based crossover -- this is a traditional SUV. If all you need is an urban runabout, there are better choices.

Used Toyota 4Runner Models
The current 4Runner represents the fifth-generation model that debuted for 2010. The new styling had an edgier look, highlighted by a blocky front grille and pronounced fender flares. At first the SR5 2WD came standard with a 2.7-liter inline-4 (157 hp and 178 lb-ft) matched to a four-speed automatic gearbox. Given its underpowered nature, we weren't sad to see it discontinued in the next model year. For 2012, the 4Runner received Toyota's available Entune smartphone integration system. These 4Runners lack the current version's rather aggressive front end styling, revamped interior and a few newly standard features including the Entune system and a rearview camera.

Prior to this, there was the fourth-generation 4Runner, which was produced from 2003-'09. As before, this 4Runner was meant to be off-road-worthy, good-looking and built to last. The frame employed fully boxed side rails that significantly increased torsional rigidity. This eliminated much of the body flex that gave the previous version a sloppy ride on the highway. The fourth-generation 4Runner also featured a roomier and much-improved cabin.

The standard engine was a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 245 hp, and it originally came with a four-speed automatic. There was also an optional V8 that produced just 235 hp but a healthy 320 lb-ft of torque (vs. 282 lb-ft for the V6); a five-speed automatic was mandatory here. In 2005, the V8 was bumped up to 270 hp and 330 lb-ft, and the V6 received a five-speed automatic. A revised power-rating procedure for 2006 caused output numbers to drop a bit, but actual power was unchanged.

This 4Runner was available in SR5, Sport or Limited trim, and a third-row seat was optional on SR5 and Limited beginning in 2004. Even the SR5 was quite nicely equipped, including features like automatic climate control and full power accessories. The Sport added off-road-ready items like a roof rack and side steps, as well as bigger wheels and front brakes and Toyota's X-REAS suspension system for reducing body roll. The Limited was the top-of-the-line model, boasting leather seating and dual-zone climate control. A navigation system was optional, and it included a back-up camera starting in 2004. Model year 2006 brought more styling tweaks and extra sound-deadening material, and the previously optional side curtain airbags became standard for '08.

In reviews, we found the fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner to be surprisingly light and responsive for a truck-based SUV. For general use, the powerful and more fuel-efficient V6 was satisfactory, but the torquey V8 was useful for towing, and it was also more refined. As expected, this 4Runner shined off-road. On the downside, it provided less cargo space than most of its midsize competitors, and the optional third-row seat didn't fold completely flat and offered limited legroom. Also, the 4Runner's utilitarian roots produced trucklike body motions at times.

The third-generation 4Runner was sold from 1996-2002. It came in three trims -- base, SR5 and Limited. It looked great but lacked power, and it also had a hefty price tag. Depreciation has neutralized much of the price premium, however, and this 4Runner still holds its value quite well, which is advantageous when it comes time to sell.

As numerous car-based SUVs entered the market, the third-generation 4Runner grew old quickly, and its weaknesses began to show. Two engines were available: a 150-hp 2.7-liter inline-4 and a 183-hp 3.4-liter V6 engine, neither of which was particularly strong for the time. Some of our editors also thought that the body was too narrow, making the cabin feel tight and claustrophobic. Furthermore, the stereo was difficult to operate -- an unusual criticism for a Toyota product. Still, this model impressed with its off-road prowess and typically high Toyota build quality. Buyers in search of a tough, capable SUV with a reputation for durability could do much worse than a 4Runner from this era.

Prior to the third generation, the Toyota 4Runner was even rougher around the edges, but it was a solid value in its day. The second-generation 4Runner, sold from 1990-'95, came in two trim levels: SR5 and SR5 V6. The SR5 was powered by a 116-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while the SR5 V6 came with a 150-hp 3.0-liter V6. Most models sold were four-doors, though two-door models were also offered.

User Reviews:

• 

  Toyota has hooked me good - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mudslinger - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I have owned (2) Toyota 4 wheel drice pick up trucks. The 1st was a 1987. I put 257000 miles on it and finally had to sell it because the body was falling apart. I couldnt kill the drive train with dynamite. Obviously I bought another one, a 1993...I put 119000 on it, and traded it in on my 4-runner.It had 73,000 when I bought it in 1999, and it has 135000 now.I will always own a Toyota.All I have done is the preventive maintenence, and put gas in it. I go camping all the time, and do lots of outdoor related entertainment.I love what you do for me...yea..TOYOTA

• 

  1995 Toyota 4Runner - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By timsspam - October 2 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. This is the 2nd 4Runner I have owned and would consider buying another one. My only complaint is the mileage or the lack there of, 12 to 17 depending on various unknowns. But I like the reliability and comfort.

• 

  My 4x4 SR5 4Runner is great! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By pius222 - September 30 - 6:40 pm

  Bought it used in 2007 with 130000 miles at a used car lot. Now has 18xxxx miles. Still runs strong. As long as you do the regular maintenance. This 4runner will run forever. The cloth interior is still great as I put a cushion on driver seat, a dash cover keeps the dash from cracking. The blue paint still shines as it is always garaged. Only used 4WD once in a muddy situation. The only drawback is the engine is kind of weak in this day and age IMO.

• 

  4 runner, 2wd, 4cyl - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By wup - September 30 - 5:13 pm

  I bought my 4 runner new in 1996. It now has over 230,000 miles. Other than change the fluids and filters, and replacing the brakes, its only required one repair; a cracked exhaust manifold at 190,000 miles. The 4 cylinder lacks power, but it gets good gas mileage (25 mpg highway). It will cruise at 80 on the highway as long as its flat. The paint started fading after about 10 years. It also had two rust spots under the roof rack that I had to repair, but Im not complaining since it sits outside, a mile from the ocean in South Florida.

• 

  2004 4 Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rudedog - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Great Auto, Ok Gas mileage Plenty of Power Smooth Ride

• 

  So Far So Good - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By JJPC - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Just brought our 4Runner home a short while ago but the test drives and initial week or two of driving have been impressive. Went to buy a Mercedes ML430 or similar upscale vehicle but resale values, reliablility ratings, and features for the dollar made the 4Runner the best deal.

• 

  Base model great value - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Patrick Haney - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Best value for the money. I bought the base model 4wd SR5 which comes with a full line of standard options. I added leather and still walked out under 28,000. I couldnt see spending 7000 for the limited upgrades.

• 

  Great truck - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By abengelbrecht - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I bought mine in Nov 2002, one of the first ones. Have done 20000 miles already and a number of off road trails. Very capable on and off road. Comfy, although some headroom and rear foot room would help, Im 63". Great ride and great engine and transmission combo. Very solid and reliable. Had minor issues which was resolved, believe it is now resolved with later vehicles. Vehicle is great, dealer support lacking compared to BMW and Volvo which we had before. I want to see how all these fancy SUVs (VW, Porsche??, MBZ, BMW, etc) hold up after being really used off road. Explorer, etc does not even compare.

• 

  Love my 4-Runner! - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By misspriss82 - September 26 - 8:54 pm

  I bought my 4-Runner brand new a year ago. I have the Blizzard Pearl color with tan leather interior. I love it! It is a bit bigger than older 4-Runners, but the ride seems smoother for an SUV this size. I only have one complaint - the windshield wipers do not have a good medium speed, they are either way too fast or way too slow. The radio area could look fancier, but its user friendly, so I dont really care about that. I plan on keeping this vehicle for a long time and I will continue to buy 4-Runners in the future.

• 

  TOYOTA QUALITY!! THE BEST REAL SUV!!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By dwillix - September 26 - 8:43 am

  The 4Runner is the best of the best in terms of a true off road SUV!! It has a super smooth ride and the styling is awesome. This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned! I have just over 50K miles on it now and get 20+ MPG overall! Goes great in snow, sand, over large hills - and on the road! A must buy if youre looking for a great SUV!!!