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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  4 Runner Limited - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By George F. Bova Jr. - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Just Purchased 2004 4Runner and it is my first Toyota and it was by far my best investment. The ride and reliability in a SUV cannot be beat.

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  04 SR5 4runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By keitho - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Just purchased the 05 SR5 4WD with the V8 and absolutely love it. Definitely better since the redesign in 03. Finally offered the 3rd seat option which is a definite plus. However, the 3rd seat eliminated the option for the sunroof(which I still dont understand) and any possibility to upgrade the stereo system! Ive also noticed that w/3rd seat, the middle row seat is definitely not as comfortable but certainly worth the trade-off. V8 is definitely the way to go versus the V6 with only a minimal decrease in gas mileage......Styling is awesome!

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  Great car - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By JUpasosi - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this car and got it for a great price

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  Great Choice - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bob S - July 15 - 9:43 am

  Had a 96 4Runner and decided to get another, the 2008 Limited 4WD. The only Japanese SUV with a solid axle - I tow a 3000 lb boat. The 6 has lots of pep for towing on the weekends. I dont feel like Ive given up any towing by not getting the 8 (but I bet the 8 can really tow) and benefit from good mileage during the week. The car is solid, nav and Bluetooth are excellent. Backup camera allows me to line up the tow hitch, a valuable option for me. I did remove all the 4Runner badging - one of the only Toyotas to have the badging on the sides of the car. AC controls are Gameboyish, but I keep the Auto climate control on all the time (even when towing), so dont use them.

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  Great SUV! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Akent - July 14 - 7:00 am

  This is my second 4Runner after driving my 1996 for 289,000 miles.The tanklike build is no longer there, so dont expect to be backing into trees and stuff without replacing either bumper.The ride is much improved, along with the cabin noise.The sunroof is a pain, since you either press the button to let it open the hatch all the way, or punch the button in short spurts to inch it back.The cup holders were redesigned into the console with adjustable grips and lighted for nighttime driving.The JBL Synthesis stereo is great.The fuel economy is 20- 21, which is similar to my 1996 model.But, I expect it will get better as it gets broken in. Interior needs XSP seats standard.

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  4runner FanAtic - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By Larry Smith - July 11 - 7:34 pm

  This is my second 4Runner & it is everything my 06 was & more! Great work & recreational vehicle rolled into one reliable package. I can carry tools & a Little Giant ladder for work, or our three large Akitas for hiking. Fuel consumption is better too with an average of 20 - 21 mpg.

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  THE BEST - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Toyota4Runner - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Toyota 4Runner and it has 45k offroad miles on it. Only time it drives on pavement is the freeway, to the offroading trails, and when I want to take it to the twisty winding roads. I really love the 5spd Manual tranny, over my 2002 4runner sport edition. The only thing I changed on it was the ripped off fender flare, side mirrors and bitten off mudflaps,(Stupid Dog). EXCELLENT! ;)

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  Good Choice - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By therock - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I love this truck. I look for excuses to drive it around town. It feels extremely well-built and confident in even the most severe conditions. I previously owned a Pathfinder that didnt feel nearly this "buttoned-down" in bad weather. The brakes are far superior to those on the Pathfinder as well. Interior space isnt as good as the Pathy but its definitely a sacrifice I am willing to make given all the other features the 4Runner has. Its a great choice if youre in the market for a mid-size SUV.

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  a 9 year love affair - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Susan - July 9 - 7:16 pm

  I have dealer-maintained this vehicle for 9 years and have never had to fix anything outside of the regular maintance every 3000 miles. I have bought tires twice since purchasing the vehicle but other than that it runs like a charm. I love the inside of the 4Runner. The leather is soft & comfortable and cleans well. The sunroof is huge and slides back inside the roof. The back window rolling down is a feature Ive not found in any other vehicle. Thanks to Toyota not changing the body style very often my 9 year old truck still looks like a newer vehicle. I have never owned a car for 9 years before but Ive found no reason to give it up other than wanting another one.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By noahjokc - July 9 - 10:00 am

  I enjoy driving it every day. The best vehicle I ever owned. Toyota builds it right. SUV shouldnt ride like a car. This vehicle can go off road or not. People that gripe about the ride should buy a car, it is setup to do it all