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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  Impressed, as expected. - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By foq - September 8 - 4:22 am

  Well, this is my first truck since I served in military in other country. All my other cars were track runners so I never thought Id enjoy driving a truck.. as those normally lack power or turning capability. Well, I was in for a treat. truck saved me a few times so far, and the offorad capability was a blessing. Build quality is impressive, interior is great. this truck could use more power, definitely, but for the weight / room / options, the power is ok. On the road it feels like a road truck, off road it feels like a decent, off-road built vehicle. Very happy with this investment. Oh, and estimated MPGs are wrong.. I get anywhere between 18.2-22, depending on areas. 17.5 in Chicago.

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  Excellent Ride! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By jtr903 - September 8 - 3:20 am

  I have had my Toyota 4Runner since 1999. I have used it in blizzards, sandy beaches and it has never let me down. Althought I have low milage and ti give an example of the quality parts used when building thew truck, I have never replaced the brakes, I have tuned it only one time and only kept it in normal maintance. Its a very smooth ride, one I will never get rid of!

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  Best SUV - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Blake Rodriguez - September 7 - 2:28 am

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  Good, Dependable SUV - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By RSL - September 4 - 5:13 am

  I bought this vehicle in August 1998 and have put over 113,000 miles on it since then. Overall, it has been a reliable SUV. The fit and finish are still excellent after 8 years of ownership. Mechanically, the car has been virtually maintenance free. My only significant complaints are the stereo and the power antenna. I had the stereo replaced 3 separate times. The power antenna was replaced twice. Gas mileage averages about 15 in the city and 20 on the highway. Power is only adequate. I still get compliments on this vehicle 8+ years later. The paint and overall look still is appealing. I would highly recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a highly reliable SUV.

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  awesome 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By AnthonyS - September 1 - 2:56 am

  This vehicle is an awesome vehicle to drive on and off road. It has a Lexus like interior and and Gated shifter.

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  238,000 miles and still going strong! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By DeFoor - August 31 - 8:06 pm

  This is my 2nd 4 runner. I have only replaced the water pump and timing belt. The truck still looks great inside and out. If you want reliability Toyota trucks are the way to go. I expect to get at least another 150k. I dont drive like you mamma either, these are hard miles. The 4 wheel drive is there when you need it, it will climb some steep hills. If you are worried about good dealer service- dont, you will not need it!

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  238,000 miles and still going strong! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By DeFoor - August 31 - 3:40 pm

  This is my 2nd 4 runner. I have only replaced the water pump and timing belt. The truck still looks great inside and out. If you want reliability Toyota trucks are the way to go. I expect to get at least another 150k. I dont drive like you mamma either, these are hard miles. The 4 wheel drive is there when you need it, it will climb some steep hills. If you are worried about good dealer service- dont, you will not need it!

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  Love V8! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Simon - August 29 - 10:23 pm

  I strongly recommend you get V8. Its the same engine used in Lexus GX470 and if you test drive both V6 and V8, youll definitely notice the difference big time. V8 is so smooth and quick. It feels faster and more responsive than my Audi A6 2.7T.

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  could not be better - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By john kitchens - August 29 - 8:33 am

  I read just about all the reviews about the 4runner edmunds has. the vehicle lives up to it all. I can not be more pleased with this SUV. I drive mostly city and highway and this SUV is a breeze and the comfort is a 10! dont be fooled by the 6cy engine its more than enough. During the fall and winter I hunt and pull my trailer and ATV, NO PROBLEM!! Interior controls seemed to be customer fit for me. Do your self a favor buy this SUV.

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  Ill Buy 4Runners Again...and Again... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tom Fox - August 25 - 10:00 am

  Owned 94 4Runner; sold in 99 @ 125k miles w/ NO unsched maintenance. Bought 03 SR5 4wd V8. HUGE improvement. $24k for loaded SR5 4wd in 94; $29k for 03. Now have full-time 4wd, SR5 appearance package (no UGLY plastic clad fenders), no sway, more room, better ride, quiet, center locking differential, rear seat audio w/wireless headphones and remote (kids listen to their station while you listen to yours on the 10 speakers), 17" wheels, alarm system, fog lamps, daytime running lights, moonroof, auto off head/fog lights, auto closing tailgate, hill hold, downhill assist, V8. $1,000 BELOW invoice in northern Virginia! Not "truck-like" (RE: Durango).