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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  wouldnt drive anything but a toyota - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By KarenMac - December 10 - 6:26 am

  I love my toyota, little pricey but worth every penny. The solidness of this vehicle is remarkable. Suv that gives a ride like a car

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  What a truck! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Forerunner - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I owned the previous model for 6.5 years and cannot believe the difference in comfort, power and refinement. If it turns out as reliable as the previous one, this time around will be even better!

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  4 Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By dtry - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I have the Limited V8 and love it. It has a lot of power and for a V8 is not that bad on the MPG. I got 23 going on a trip from NJ to VA. I am also getting 18 for my every day driving. The insides of the 4 Runner is just great. It was well thought out and has all of the things a person could want in a SUV.

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  Love my 4Runner! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ashmomma - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted a 4Runner as long as I can remember. Until this year, the pricing always seemed just out of reach.

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  Outstanding Value - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By chestersz - December 7 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased the vehicle three weeks ago. Best decision I have ever made. Quality exudes from every part of the truck. Even plastic items are of high quality.

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  Blown Head - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By Blown Head - December 6 - 3:13 am

  It drove awesome for the first couple years and then my head gasket started going out and then finally did. Its sat in the same spot for two years now because just to replace a head gasket was at least $1500.00 I bought another vehicle for that price.

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  Good Commuter, Off Road, Cruiser - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Leon - December 3 - 4:20 am

  This truck replaced my 04 Highlander Ltd. I was afraid of the gas mileage, but its almost a tie (19 mpg avg.) The cabin is very well appointed. The seats are very comfortable. Fit and finish are impeccable. My 4Runner LTD Edition is not wallowing excessively at all, as some reviews indicate. While the ride is not as carlike as crossovers, the good ol’ feel of the body on frame is worth the compromise. On the positive side, it glides over New Englands potholes with aplomb without any sign or sound of the suspension destruction. I hope that this truck will be safe, much more durable than my previous, and last longer with little maintenance."

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  Toyota Strong - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By WSU92 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  This Toyota stands strong to the name it represents. The heritage of Toyota quality is passed on to this automobile. The five-speed manual transmission with the V6 is a fuel friendly, aggressive combination capable of handling suburban traffic entrapments and natures liberating climbs. The interior comprises an appealing approach to functionality and resourcefulness. This model and year is sure to please the toughest of critics.

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  The best midsize SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JSac - December 1 - 10:00 am

  My fiance and I has tested many SUVs including Highlander and Pilot. Though refine & relible, both look plain and limited off-road. We love the bold look of the new 4Runner. Seats and ride are comfortable with little noise. It has 5- star side-crash rating and loaded with safety like ABS, EBD, VSC. The 4.0L V6 VVT-i cranks out 245HP & 283@3400, much more than Highlander & Pilot. 0-60 under 8 seconds is faster than most SUVs. 5000lbs towing is also great. 4Runner is great 4 off-road, with low-4, HAC and DAC. 4Runner has legendary reliability. It now shares the platform with the Lexus GX470, manufactured at Tahara plant, ranked #1 by JD Power.

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  A True 4X4 SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By 2003HELP - December 1 - 10:00 am

  What a blast. The best of both worlds. Great on the highway and AWESOME off the paved highway.I was tired of my Blazer and Grand Cherokee getting doors and scratches from the brush. CLADDING BABY, one of the reasons I bought it. The V-6 has torque to spare in 4 Wheel Lo. Toyota has a winner on the new motor design. MPG is fair for such a high compression engine. Using the DAC in sticky situations is UNREAL. For the money (under 30,000), nothing touches this. Dorado Gold with the Grey Cladding. This is a sophisticated monster on and off road...