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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  Excellent - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By swhitts - August 9 - 12:53 pm

  Excellent choice - 4WD systems are excellent for snow and off-road. Comfort and driving dynamics continue to impress. Even after just short of 1yr ownership it still amazes me how competent and sure footed it drives. Ive owned Jeep and Ford previously - there is no comparison. I ride in friends 05 Explorer and 05 G. Cherokee and now wonder what they were thinking...the 4 Runner is that great. As long as you are comfortable with the "odd" seating position and not getting cash on the hood like a domestic - you cant make a better choice for a mid-size SUV.

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  luvmosyo - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By mosyo - August 7 - 2:10 pm

  I am the original owner. I traded my 1991 BMW 325i for the 4Runner and have never looked back. It starts every single time I turn the key. One day after I had the vehicle for 7 years, it hesitated a little when I started it. I replaced the original Panasonic battery and it went right back to 100%. I had to have the antenna replaced once about 3 years ago. Other than that, the vehicle has served me flawlessly through my days as a single active duty Naval officer, my early married life and now with 3 kids and 3 dogs. My Siberian Husky never misses an opportunity to ride in "Mos Yo!" I plan to keep my 4Runner until it wont go anymore - Im thinking another 10 years. Thank you Toyota.

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  Its still going! - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By cbrown - August 6 - 2:06 am

  Bought my car when it was 2 yrs old w/ 35k miles. It now has over 260k in original miles and its still chugging along. The most reliable car Ive had! Got it fixed maybe a couple times mainly due to an accident it was involved in-other than that it doesnt give us any problems at all.

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  I LOVE my 4Runner! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By janet - August 4 - 7:30 am

  Our 4-Runner is the BEST vehicle we have ever owned. I am so sorry to see the lot full of 2008 runners with a 6 instead of a V-8. The V-8 is why we bought one with AWD. The Gas mileage is NOT significant between the 6 and the 8. We are active so this SUV really suits us. I could NEVER drive a dinky smart car or anything remotely like those... I am used to feeling safe in my runner.

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  Noisy Relays/ABS Actuator Pump - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Safari3006 - August 3 - 2:00 am

  This truck has a major flaw. You will hear the 3-clicking noise when you first start it in the morning even if you do not step on the brake. Drive the truck for 10 minutes and make a complete stop, and after a few seconds you will hear the clicking noise again for 3 seconds as if something is engaging and disengaging. The local dealer and the District Office of Toyota Motors informed us that the noise we hear is the ABS Actuator Pump and it is normal so Toyota would NOT replace it. This persistent noise can be really annoying so buyer beware...

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  Just a great vehicle! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By tomcat83 - July 29 - 10:00 am

  This is my fifth new Toyota and it is the best of the bunch. That is saying a lot when you are talking about Toyota vehicles! Everytime I climb in it I get excited! It is that fun to drive!

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  Performance - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joetrack - July 29 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2001 Tundra before the 4Runner the ride on the Tundra was better than the 4Runner smooth. The Runner, rides like a truck. The seats squeak driver and passagers, The sunroof when open rattles. Rear end rattles on rough roads.

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  Stepped Up to a 4 Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By blm012 - July 29 - 10:00 am

  With the X-REAS suspension, there is virtually no bounce or roll and although the handling is solid, bumps do not jar the passengers. The 10 speaker JBL system provides crisp notes and deep base tones from our 6 disk CD changer. The glove box door sustained a couple a shallow scratches and they were easily repaired when the dealers trim shop applied heat and lightly buffed with a silicone coated cloth. The dual climate control, handling, and seating comfort make this a road trip vehicle.

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  2004 Toyota 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nick_2453 - July 24 - 11:20 am

  Well, even though it is time to trade in, I loved my 4runner. I would keep it forever, but the trade in is too much money to trade in our other car. This car is amazing! I bought it new, and its ride is amazing! The design is literally awesome, and I really like the reliability. I am not too fond of the fuel economy (about 16 and 20, city-highway), but who doesnt expect that or worse for an SUV. I recommend getting one with a third seat!

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  4 runner Sport V8 - Awsome - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jaspurr - July 16 - 8:36 am

  Just put 1500 miles on in the first month. Towed my 17 foot whaler to Cape Cod, did not even know the boat was attached. I just moved up from a 97 Tacoma 4x4 and need to get use to the automatic. Great truck, comfortable, quiet, quiet, quiet. Plenty of room for 2 kids, wife and dog. The suspension is tight, the wheels grip well. Great visibility. Wanted a pathfinder off-road - got the V8 Sport for $2000 less, which I think is the best value out there. Paid right around $29K after rebate, still a lot for a vehicle but I know it will last me 7-9 years without a problem, all my other Toyotas have!!!!!