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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  Poor Water Pump Desgn - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Frank713 - December 10 - 10:00 am

  59.5 K miles and noted the coolant reservoir was dry just prior to long trip Denver to Grand Canyon. Water pump was leaking and very expensive to replace...similar to changin timing belt laybor. Was out of warranty by time...but I called Go Toyota and they agreed to pay for the pump, but not the laybor. Im happy with the truck, but dissappointed with the failed water pump with so few miles...no off road. Mechanic told me pump was a bad design by Toyota and it is a common repair for this truck.

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  Very disappointed - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By Max - December 3 - 1:23 am

  I purchased this vehicle with 126K miles on it. It now has 130K and is sitting in the shop with a $3,700 transmission bill. I had very high hopes when I bought it and was hoping to keep it for years to come. Unfortunately, the failure of the transmission took me by surprise. I am very surprised it wore down after only 130K miles. I really do love the truck, unfortunately someone before me did not take care of the transmission and now Im stuck with the bill. I guess its off to Craigslist to see who wants a mechanics special.

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  Tunnel Vision - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By aquadog - November 21 - 10:00 am

  The dashboard instrument cluster is like looking into a tunnel and very hard to focus on the dials. The clock is part of th climate control and is very difficult to see in bright light. The back door needs to have a remote latch in the drivers area instead of using your key lock. The mirror needs to have a light, all ladies look for this option. Other than the mentioned deficiencies the truck is great.

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  Reliable suv - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By cv - November 12 - 4:26 pm

  I have owned this vehicle for over 5 years now with no major problems. 122,000 miles. Regular oil changes and maintenence. Replaced clutch mechanics on interior, thats it. Very reliable. Fun off road in Desert sand or mountain snow. Tows, and handles well. Gas mileage could be better, my Tahoe friends get similar mileage with their bigger vehicles. Definitely could use more horsepower. Overall a great suv

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  Best Looking Mid-Size SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Brian - October 22 - 10:50 pm

  Love my 4Runner. Hate the gas mileage. Have to say though, I put a lot of miles on a vehicle and this has been, hands down, the absolute easiest to maintain. I have almost 60,000 miles on it and have not yet had to have the brakes replaced - you cant get that with a Honda. My only complaint is the terrible smell when the rear window is even cracked open - Toyota has attempted to correct this problem, but whatever they did only corrected the problem for a week or so.

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  Love the 4 RUnner - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike - October 11 - 8:03 am

  I am so happy I bought this vehicle. My biggest surprise has been how well it rides on the highway. Ive done a bit of off-road but missed the snow last year. I cant wait to take it on ski trips later this year. Im averaging 22.1 MPG at 8,500 miles, which Im happy with. No regrets.

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  Great Package - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By SoCalSurfer - September 15 - 6:56 am

  Looked at the MDX, RX350, FX35, Q5, Pathfinder and the 4Runner was the best all-around package. Initial target was another Lexus crossover but stumbled upon this body on frame SUV that drives just as smooth on new roads (no exaggeration) but you remember that you are in a real SUV on bumpy areas (though very impressed that it doesnt bounce like the SR5 — Limited comes with XREAS). For the price and options this was hands down the winner and also the coolest vehicle in the group. The 4Runner is not perfect but hits a sweet spot.

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  Gasket Problem... - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runer - September 13 - 2:00 am

  Good car but not much power. Head gasket is the biggest problem on this car. Cost me too much money to keep it.

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  very comfortable, so-so mileage - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By chuynh - September 7 - 2:00 am

  Bought my 99-4Runner SR5 4WD used in 1/00 w/24k miles for $28k. Have replaced tires, brakes, spark plugs @ 65k. The 4Runner is an adequate compromise between my prev. vehicles: Toyota pickup STD cab (utility) & Dodge Intrepid ES (looks & performance). Sound system & speakers are above average w/excellent tweeter positioning. 4WD works well in MN winters. I like the height of the vehicle. Makes moving in-out of car traffic easy. Synching infant & toddler car seats are adequate w/help of pre-tensioner belts.

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  Best all-around SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By coloradorunner - September 7 - 2:00 am

  This is my first 4Runner...I owned a Ford Explorer prior to this and it doesnt even compare. The handling on this truck is amazing (w/ X-REAS). I opted for the V6 due to a little better gas mileage. Go for the V8 if you plan to tow anything very large. This is the best all-around SUV in this segment and is not a glorified minivan (unlike the Honda Pilot).