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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  my truck - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Lacy - May 9 - 2:00 am

  Best car I ever owned.Great to drive. I bought one with upgraded 18 inch wheels-what a gorgeous truck. I can honestly say I am 100 satisfied with my 4Runner!

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  My Runner - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Luke82 - May 8 - 9:50 pm

  Well got my 4Runner back in April 2008 and already have 12,000 miles, this cars runs great so far. Its a V6 Sport Package and it looks mean with that hood scoop! The car does its work how SUV should. The power is great the comfort is great just took it hunting and off road so its a good piece of machine. I would recommend this SUV over any American made SUV!

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  Its is the Best on the Road! Bar None! - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rick - May 7 - 7:06 am

  Wow I cant believe Im doing this! I will explain! I was a line tech and did hold a ASE Master Cert. in auto repair. I not real fond of any GM product, Ford is pretty good but always had the best service from Mopars.Owned more of them than anything. Never gave Toyota much thought. Always eyed the 4Runner looked like a nice SUV. We did the Durango (Nice truck), then an 2002 Accord V-6 top line Coupe. Well lease was up and my wife wanted back in a 4x4 because of snow. Well Dodge decided to make the Durango larger and about as ugly as you could. Wife didnt like the Jeep much and they discontinued use of the straight 6 engine and reduced the tow rating to 3500 lbs. GM out of the question.

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  Great SUV Gets Even better - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tom - May 6 - 1:00 am

  We had a 2000 4Runner and loved it. We lost it in an accident and went shopping again. Looked at Explorers, Trailblazers and Jeeps and Envoys. Although due to dealer incentives could have purchased all but the Envoy for less, the fit and finish, towing capacity on the base models, and overall quality in the 4Runner is tops. The interior is larger than the 2000 model and the ride is smoother without being soft and driver visability is improved. Our experience with the reliability from Toyota was the final selling point. This is our 5th and all we have ever had to replace other than standard maintenance items was a starter. We usually keep them for over 100,000 miles. Very Satisfied

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  My 2nd and not my last… - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By MK ULTRABLIZZARD - May 4 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd 4runner which replaced a 2000 SR5 Sport and will certainly not be my last. Bigger, quieter, more comfortable and tons of standard features makes it stand out from the rest. The price helps too. I got mine for a little over $29k. Simply put: this is one of the best SUVs on the market. Great price, features and Toyota build quality and reliability.

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  Love this SUV - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By razbodian555 - May 3 - 6:40 pm

  The ride is very good. Toyota reliability is legendary. All the options. Dont care for the gold lettering of the Gold package Limited. One of the only other things that I liked about my 1988 Pathfinder over this 1998 Toyota is the shoulder room. The Pathfinder felt much bigger side to side and the amount of space between the backs of the seats made it possible to reach items in the back seat much easier. The durability of the Toyota interiors are equal to the Pathfinders but both of these are leaps and bounds over the rival American vehicle interiors.

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  2010 4Runner - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Yuri - May 3 - 10:46 am

  I switched from a Ford Explorer to 4Runner and I must admit I love my new toy. Its comfy, looks nice, sits high off the ground has awesome options and the leather heated seats in a 4Runner…I mean tough and comfy… I love it! Initially I wanted to go with a black exterior and cloth 3 row interior, but after some more thought, I decided to do the dark gray (magnetic gray metallic) exterior and black leather interior with light gray paneling. It looks very sharp… I am glad I chose the combination over my initial one.

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  Love my Toyota! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Pappas - May 1 - 7:30 pm

  We leased this Toyota without doing much research and we are glad we went with a Toyota! Its an impressive vehicle on the outside and decent on the inside. We love the temp. controls and rear air. The ride is amazing!!!! It doesnt feel like we are driving a truck by any means. I have driven many different cars and SUVs and this one drives the best by far! My husband and I argue over who will take the 4 runner. The air is freezing and it has auto temp. control which we love. The seats are comfortable and the interior is roomy for an SUV in its class.

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  awesome! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Katy - April 29 - 6:43 pm

  I previously owned a 98 4runner SR5 4x4, loved it for 3 months then it was in an accident and totalled. Immediately went out of state to bring home a newer model because I loved my 4runner so much! The 1000-mile drive back home was a pleasure, wasnt uncomfortable at all. I wonder why no other car manufacturer has figured out that the auto-roll-down rear window is a winning feature...Im so spoiled by it that its hard to imagine not having one. Havent had to do anything other than routine maintenence so far. Also, sunroof, running boards and roof rack I believe are standard on most SR5s. It also drives absolutely AWESOME on sand, even in the deep soft stuff!!

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  4Runner XP Edition (off road tires) - 2018 Toyota 4Runner
  By Peter from Florida - April 28 - 11:56 am

  I traded in a 2010 Ford FX2 F-150 for the 2018 4Runner and love the vehicle. Fit and finish are excellent. When I slam the door, I dont see the metal waver like I did with the F-150. I felt like the Ford, while being a great truck, was flimsy in many respects. This 4Runner feels solid as a rock. So far, Im truly enjoying the vehicle, and even with the off road tires, it rides smoothly and road noise is hardly as bad as my old truck. For me, a great upgrade and a nice compromise between owning a pickup and an SUV. If the wife doesnt want you driving a truck anymore, get one of these. Youll still be up high and have the flexibly and covered cargo area of an SUV...