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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  Love the 4Runner - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jimbo - October 7 - 1:06 pm

  I picked the 4Runner after a years research. The ride with the Xreas suspension is very good. I receive many compliments on the color (Salsa Red) and the looks of the vehicle. This is my second Toyota. I got my wife a 2004 Camry V6 Limited and she loves it.

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  another winner... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JEMN - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Toyota got me back into their drivers seat with this vehicle. A former Honda, Nissan and Toyota owner (if only the Big 3 had their quality/reliability act together I would buy from them), this 4 Runner is just what this mid- life crisis ordered. On the outside, strong, sexy, classy. I love the front grill, the squared off wheel wells, its overall butch bull dog like appearance. Snowstorm here 3 weeks ago - it purred with pleasure in 4WD.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By lhenson - October 7 - 2:00 am

  This SUV is the best buy for the money. The V8 is supurb. I avg. about 20 mpg. It handles great on the road and its quiet. Fit and finish on the vehicle is top notch. I was considering a Nissan Murano before I took a look at the 4Runner. Im glad I did!. I was also looking at the Honda Pilot, but the dealers werent budging from MSRP, plus the lack of styles and colors at the lots. The 4Runner is a great SUV, I recommend it!

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  Strong 4000cc V6 engine 245 hp - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ToyotaMichellin - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I bought 2004 4Runner SR5 V6. Power is enough, space is enough, basic 6 speakers are good enough in bass to treble, noise level is quiet enough (67dB@70mph), the rear door closes electrically. Only thing I dislike is my (drivers) seat back, that does not fit to my back completely. And like many Japanese cars, it locks doors when you shift gear P to D and does not release automatically when you arrive and park.(you should manually open locks for rear passengers to get out) However, its safety rating at NHTSA and IIHS outperforms "ALL" other SUVs, and overall, I am 99% satisfied with my new 2004 4Runner SR5 V6.

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  New Impression for an Old Friend - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By pain-doc - October 7 - 1:20 am

  Having a short attention span, I have been through a number of SUVs including a 02 Pathfinder, 03 Sequoia, 02 BMW X5 V8, 02 4Runner, 04 CR-V to name a few. This 06 seems to be the best mix for the price. My primary gripes are headroom on ingress, climate control knobs/buttons, and lack of dark interior option. If I could have had a scaled-down Sequoia, that would have been perfect. The V8 in this intermediate is a true luxury. I love the throttle response. Many complain that it is too responsive, but being primarily a sports car guy, it is a welcome attribute. I wanted a masculine SUV that had a livable nature and that is what I got.

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  Awesome vehicle!! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By bigquadsto - October 6 - 10:00 am

  Had this car for about 5 years now and no problems with the car at all. Its at 94K miles and still runs like new.

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  The best 4Runner Ever - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Louis Lerebours - October 6 - 8:20 am

  I have had my 4Runner for 4 years now. I live in Long Island and my wife used to live in Utica. I was thus driving about 1000 miles a week. Ride is outstanding for a 4x4. On the wet highways or in the snow, the traction control is unsurpassed. I invested in synthetic oil and change my filters regularly. The 3rd row seat is mostly used by my 2 toddlers. This is the BEST 4Runner Toyota has built so far. I am just waiting for an excuse to buy the upcoming redesigned 4Runner.

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  Solid truck - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By avoncarguy - October 4 - 2:20 am

  I did a lot of research into different SUV options and the 4Runner came out on top. The European options such as the Land Rover, MB M-class, and BMW X-series are all great options, however in these tough economic times the cost differential simply cant be justified - initial purchase price will be $10k+ over a Japanese option and the maintenance charges are outrageous. Since I do not anticipate going off road, I opted for the 4x2 Limited model. Looks just as good and it is a bit cheaper. While the truck may not be that exciting in terms of fun to drive, the reliability is the main reason I bought it. Do some research and youll be amazed at the statistics around the 4Runner.

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  4Runner is solid - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By mort - September 29 - 10:00 am

  Traded in a 2000 Explorer after the steering rack and rear wiper motor broke. The rotors needed servicing at 20k as well and then the whole tire thing... Its been a while but I suspect my nephews Big Wheel rides better than that Ford XLT. Found a 98 4Runner SR5 with 25k miles on it, I expect to keep it 10 years. Other makes have more power and features, but these toyotas just plain last.

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  A Real Pleasure - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Morton - September 29 - 10:00 am

  This is my third lease. In 7 years I have not lost a days work because of mechanical reasons. Reliability is a 10 in my book. Great over all vehicle.