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:

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  Great Truck - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By John Fogle - December 24 - 10:00 am

  I love to drive this truck, its comfortable, but lacks power. Being 64" it could use a little more leg room. Gas milage could be better. Also had a blown head gasket while going up a grade on the freeway, temp. gauge never moved off normal, so cracked the block. Toyota claims that the head gasket recall of earlier engines was fixed and I was stuck with the cost of a new engine.

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  Great vehicle! - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Luis - December 17 - 12:03 pm

  I love this vehicle! Ive had it for over 3 years and 80k miles and not one single repair (knock on wood). The only work done on it has been changing the fluids and a new set of tires last month. It represents Toyotas quality at its best. The only complaint is that the interior is somewhat small compared to other SUVs.

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  Great Truck - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By msi - November 25 - 9:23 pm

  I have driven this truck on and off road and have never had a problem. I love the body design and the fact that it is truly made to be on and off road unlike most other SUVs that are built only for road use. I couldnt be happier with this vehicle and plan on keeping it a very long time which says all there is to say about its reliability.

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  Suburban Hauler - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By David - November 21 - 12:10 am

  After driving Ford explorers for over 10 years, I purchased the 4runner 3 months ago. Likes: -dealer experience -build quality (except doors tinny when shut hard) -big buttons -gas mileage really 17 city/ 23 freeway -practical, not luxurious -rides well on rough dirt roads, as well as smooth pavement -quiet cabin -quiet engine (like a sewing machine) -satellite radio, usb port, -not a minivan -power rear window (excellent ventilation when combined with sunroof) -rear seats fold down flat dislikes: -way too high off the ground and no running boards -orange dials very difficult to read in bright sunlight -too much hard plastic -needs optional cargo cover

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  Just Browsing - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By v84runner - November 15 - 9:03 pm

  Went looking for an SUV at a Chevy dealer and bought a Toyota 4runner, we were so impressed with the vehicle and I (male) love looking at it in the driveway as well as driving it. I read the reviews and say they are spot on! Paint chips easily and the front end/hood needs to be more aggressive. We have the hood scoop with a V8 and Magnaflow exhaust...sounds great, drives great. This vehicle is fun to drive, handles great, and is solid! We looked at/drove Hummer H3, Jeep Laredo, Pathfinder, but walked away with the 4runner on the spot! We never owned a Toyota before, but we are extremely glad we bought this one. Never buying an American model again, over priced!

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  Ive underestimated it. - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By DanS - November 13 - 9:46 am

  This is the first wise vehicle I bought. I wanted: comfort, reliability, utility, style. It had 60k miles when I bought it and now it has over 155k. The only mechanical problem Ive had was a bad oxygen sensor that I suspect my K&N filter caused (spraying oil on the sensor). Right now Im searching for a "new" perfect vehicle for me. Basically, the same criteria as before, but mpg is a greater concern, because I want to make that 45mile drive to surf more often. And, after all my research Ive come to the conclusion that the perfect vehicle Im searching for is the one in my garage. It feels like itll go another 100k miles easily. Used ones are a bargain! Go get one!

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  Not that sure yet..... - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By mark - November 10 - 8:00 am

  Got the Trail model in mid January, actually came down to the 4Runner vs a Lexus RX...not your typical comparison. After trading in a 2002 Pathfinder, i figured i would stay with the "truck look". However, although the body look and style is really nice. Its a bit bigger than i thought, (or would have liked). At about 3000 miles now, I cannot even reach 17 mpg, doing about 50% highway,, thought it would be better. The BIGGER concern is today, after braking coming up to a red light, i had a sudden surge of acceleration. This was not imagined, it was VERY REAL. While i was braking, the car had a sudden surge of power. It did stop right away after that so i am going to contact Toyota.

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  4Runner owners little secret. - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By SR5 - November 4 - 4:06 am

  Ive never owned a vehicle that has the kick in the pants go-power this SUV has. No, I do not own the V-8 version either. Even with my sometimes Lead Foot I still get an average of 18 mpg. I hated the look of it when it first showed up at the dealers, now Ive taken to it. It will go anywhere my old Explorer would go and more. Just as comfortable and inside everything is put just where ya need it. Great Toyota quality, and dependability too! My only con is the ride could be be smoother, but it is an SUV. (and Im pretty hard on this vehicle.)

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  NexGen SUV - Worth the wait - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JMU - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I was about to purchase my 4Runner earlier but waited until the appearance package on the SR5 that provides color keyed fenders and siding was available. Glad I waited. Dont know why Toyota put that grey cladding on in the first place. Major improvement in almost every way from the earlier 4Runner. I was almost going to get a Highlander but when I test drove the 4Runner I was sold. I thought it even had a better ride than the Highlander. If youre thinking about an SUV drive this one. It has the others in its class beat hands down.

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  Good Bye to a Great Old Car - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By GreenWay - October 22 - 8:46 pm

  It has been great to drive this car around! Bought it with 104K miles on the teller which today stands at 145K. This is farewell and a tribute to a great car which drove us without letting us down even once! Regular oil changes and a tire change were the only maintenance activities ever done to it! It is going to a new owner after having it replaced by a Honda Pilot.