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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  Quaily SUV - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sean - February 11 - 9:30 pm

  Solid construction, excellent quality, V8 has good power, very solid vehicle. Seating is terrible. Bad for tall drivers.

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  Built To Last - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jovi13 - February 10 - 8:03 pm

  I love this truck, and with 187,000 miles on it, I have never had a problem with it. If the routine maintenance is kept up, these things will last forever. After all these years, it still looks great, and puts the newer body style to shame. Interior has held up extremely well, and all the electronics still work perfectly. The engine is still strong, for the period it was built, and the transmission still shifts like it was brand new! Great, great vehicle. I just wish it was a little bigger in the front seating area, but I am 65", so it just wasnt built for 90% sized people.

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  the thing is a truck - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By ryan536653 - February 10 - 10:00 am

  ok so the design is getting old but why ruin a thing thats going so good, its reliable it can take a punishment and you can build it up looking real nice. the only thing it need is more hp nut then you can just get a trd supercharger for that.

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  A year driving it!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By George - February 9 - 6:13 pm

  I almost did not buy it! I drove a 4Runner years ago and I did not like it, but a car expert friend suggested me to drive the 2005 V8, WHAT A SURPRISE! I test drove the GX 470 Lexus first, The Toyota Limited is as good ride! This is an incredible SUV. Acceleration is amazing for a SUV. The ride is so confortable that sometimes I forgot I had an SUV. I bought it a year ago, driven more than 30,000 miles through the mountains and deserts of California, Utah, Nevada, Idaho, Colorado and Arizona, through , rain, ice and snow and this truck performes like a charm! I bought new Michelin tires last week, WOW EVEN BETTER RIDE! Service is great. Confortable for 5 passengers. Buy it.

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  Solid truck - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By best ever - February 8 - 10:43 pm

  I brought it used at 73,000 about 5 yrs ago. I currently have 155,000, the only major problem Ive had was that the transmission had to rebuilt at 96,000, but it has been running sound ever since.

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  Can You Beat A Toyota? - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By B Sarlo - February 2 - 9:30 pm

  There are very few SUVs that can really match the 4Runner. The 4Runner is very reliable, and designed to perform at peak performance. Thats why I keep coming back to Toyota. Bottom line: they dont break down like some vehicles. Thats been my experience. Advice: take care of vehicle and it will take of you for a wonderful ride across America.

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  Toyota 4Runner Sport Edt - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By RSmall - January 31 - 4:00 am

  Im a big guy 63 and this vehicle turns out not to be the most comfofortable in long trips....but it is great in bad weather which I did buy it for that reason I have a long commute and Im in law enforcement and have to get to work in all kinds of weather.

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  4 cylinder makes the grade - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By CHAD - January 31 - 2:33 am

  I bought a 2010 4 cyl. 4runner in March. I had a 2005 Toyota Highlander and planned to purchase another one but came across this model on the dealers lot. I bought it because it delivers good gas mileage, has 8 air-bags, neat appointments in interior. Has better outward visibility than the hl, sits 1" higher, and has enough power in the 4 cly. For my use. I am towing a 2000 lb. Pop-top camper and have no interest in going off road. The storage space is adequate, seats fold down flat, dashboard temp., compass, mileage ratings, etc. Are an added plus. After just 1300 miles I am ave. 20.5 mpg. It has sonar for backing up, fog lights, etc. A very good BASIC vehicle for $28,500.

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  4 RUNNER - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By JULYFUN - January 30 - 1:50 am

  LOVE IT. IT IS VERY EASY TO MANEUVER. YOU DONT FEEL LIKE YOU ARE IN A TRUCK.

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  Nice Ride - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By DVP - January 23 - 11:03 am

  Originally looked at the Highlander, but needed more cargo room. The 4Runner joins my wifes Solara in the driveway because of the quality in her car. The quality and attention to detail is second to none with Toyota. Price was slightly up from the Highlander Limited, but the additional room and selectable 4 wheel drive made it an easy choice.