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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  Absolute Best Midsized SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bill - February 27 - 12:20 pm

  Toyota did what it consistently strives at... raising the bar for quality, reliability, performance, and style. The 4Runner, hands down, is the best SUV in the class. The ride and build quality show with inside and out. Compared to the so-called Big Three and its overseas rivals, Toyota engineers and builders continue to drive over their competion with the best built components and workmanship. Trust me, I have driven just about every SUV out there and this 2005 4Runner will get you in and out of places the others tremble to think about. The VSC and braking system add to your confidence when driving. The gas mileage stands out with my average at 24 MPG highway. The ride is quiet and smooth.

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  So Far Its Great! - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
  By echiasson - February 25 - 4:05 pm

  I have about 500 miles on it so far. I am 62" and if i put the seat all the way back i can barely reach the petals and still have room in the back seat to spare. You dont buy this SUV to get 40+ MPG but i avg. about 19 MPG so far and the engine isnt nearly broke in yet. Purchased the Premium Package with the SR5 and the leather interior is awesome! sun roof is good. Entune Nav is somewhat complicated. Took a few different techs to show me how to use it. Make sure you have Unlimited Data on your smartphone because having Pandora and Bing is awesome but it can eat up data packages quickly. I highly recommend this vehicle!!

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  Great SUV - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By 2ndRunner - February 18 - 2:00 am

  We traded our 1994 4Runner for this 2000 Runner. It was in the dealers inventory for several months and seemed to not sell because of the color (Dark Green). We waited until the price dropped and eventually got a great deal. It is a significant upgrade from our 94 in that it has a more advanced 4 wheel drive system, a stronger, quieter engine plus improved creature features.

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  Best Mid-Sized SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By cmaj - February 18 - 2:00 am

  After six months, even more impressed now than when I first drove it off the lot. Noticed an extremely worded post regarding the sulfer smell. With the rear window down during hard starts (hard to resist with the V8 models), residual exhaust can enter the cabin. The effect is very short and vents out quickly. It is not a serious problem, very common to other similar vehicles with rear windows that lower. (a bigger concern if heavy loads are in tow and vehicle is being driven very hard. If so, simply keep the window up!) Only issue involved rattles from sunroof - dealer 100% corrected in 1.5 hours using the TSB from Toyota.

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  2005 SE 33000 miles of experience - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ray - February 17 - 9:50 pm

  I have been extremely happy with the V-8s performance capability. I get about 21 MPG overall per the onboard computer using regular. However, I have seen a slight drop since ethanol has been added to the local gasoline mixture. The only problem I have had was the dealer did not lower the spare tires pressure to match the 32 lbs in the wheels on the ground. It took a while to figure this out.

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  2003 SR5 4WD V6 - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ed Rooney - February 17 - 9:03 am

  I bought this car new in 2003 to be our family truckster. While it had a rattle here and there, it was always reliable and well-mannered on the road through 125,000 miles. Pretty early on in had an ABS problem, which was quickly fixed under warranty. No problems since. Good cargo space and lots of room for rear-passengers. I could just fit 2 kids in boosters and a grandmother in the backseat. I moved up to a BMW 5-series, and less than a month later I am considering moving back to a 4runner.

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  My nautical blue T4R - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By niremor - February 16 - 11:06 pm

  This is the best toyota vehicle I have owned! I have had two Celicas and a highlander and this one is the best ever! I feel like I have gotten my dream car. The style is awesome, the drive is great and I get lots of compliments and stares. It has some great features such as the AUX port (for my iPod), lots of storage space, HUGE cup holders and many others besides the overall ride.

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  05 SE 4WD V6 AT w/28k miles - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Greg - February 15 - 5:00 am

  I own 3 Toyotas (00,05,06). This is my second 4Runner. I now have 28k miles. The V6 is plenty of power for all uses including towing my 2500# job trailer. I average 19.8 mpg combined Hwy/City. It handles nice, is silky smooth, but it is on a truck platform so after 150-200 miles you need to get out and walk. If you drive a lot of HWY miles you might consider a Highlander, Sequoia or even the Honda Pilot. I got the 4runner over the Pilot because of looks but sometimes I wonder about my decision after long trips. If you drive a lot of off road and local, the 4Runner is a great choice. I hope the brakes are as good as my 2000 4Runner as they have lasted 103k and still have 40% lining left!

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  Mileage - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By So/so Mileage - February 13 - 3:50 am

  We were expecting better gas mileage than the Ford Expedition we sold, but its almost the same. Overall the vehicle is very well built and designed. A 6 cylinder should be more fuel savvy than a V-8 though.

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  My 2nd 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rick Ayotte - February 12 - 2:00 am

  This is by far the best 4Runner Toyota has offered the consumer.Toyota has not left anything out with this new model, Great performance, beautiful styling, all the comforts of home and superb off road and on the pavement. After test driving the competition before buying, I am glad I decided to remain with the Toyota 4Runner.