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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  This is only my view - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By krissy - September 12 - 1:43 am

  Performance and Reliability are perfect and it looks great, but I have found the Interior Design to be poor, the color is very light, the seating is not at all comfortable, the sound system vibrates in the seats when turned up. If youre packing to go away and you fill up the back, it blocks the radio reception because the antenna is on the back side window, so bring some CDs. Some more of the things I have found not to like is on the stick shift, 3rd is next to drive (same link) so you have to always remember to push it into drive or youll always drive in third. Finally the third row of seating has no floor space for your feet, it is flat. Other then that its Fun to Drive.

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  Tough, rugged truck - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Duke - September 11 - 5:16 pm

  I searched a long time for a vehicle that was right for me. I didnt like most SUVs because they either had poor gas mileage or were too small. I looked at CUVs which seemed more like a minivan alternative than a utility vehicle and not really made to go off road. The 4Runner offers good mileage (Im getting 20 mpg combined), comfort, technology - voice command, BT, Satellite radio, rear camera, USB, Nav, etc. - so it works well for my daily driving AND is built to tow, haul, go off road - so great for getaways with the family and friends.

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  Runs better than a Timex! - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mell - August 30 - 8:00 pm

  Ive owned my 4Runner for 7yrs. I have 193,000 miles on it with no reason to believe I wont get another 100,000. It has only been in the shop for normal maintenance and a check engine light that keeps coming on for a few weeks and then goes off. Cant find the reason so Im not worrying about it. I dont like how it drives in the snow. 4WD gets me up my steep driveway but doesnt help me stop on slippery roads. Getting about 16 mpg and the small tank means Im always at the gas station. Very comfortable on long drives and cargo space galore. My dogs love the electric rear window and so do I. Its the main reason I bought it. Hardly any rust either. Great SUV! Not too big -- not too small.

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  Love it! - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By dmb72 - August 30 - 10:48 am

  Im coming up on my 1 year anniversary of ownership of my 4-runner and I have nothing but positive vibes to say. I traded in my 08 Jeep Grand Cherokee for this car and I have never looked back If youre like me and want a true SUV to handle ski road trips in the winter, and camping in the summer, then this should be your ride. Fun to drive, powerful, and and is just plain cool to own. Plus, it handles whatever mother nature throws at you. My 4-runner has driven thru hurricane irene and a 30 inch Noreaster with ease. I love the fact that it has stayed true to its roots and feels like what an SUV should feel like. If you are like most and want a crossover SUV feel, then this is not your ride

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  Excellent Quality - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jake - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving the 2011 4Runner for about a week now and every single time I hop in, I like it even more. The ride is smooth, even over not so favorable roads (Dirt/Sand/Holes). I have been averaging about 19.8 MPG mixed driving. The engine puts out a lot of power for a V-6. By the way, I tried the pathfinder, pilot, and a couple of crossovers and this 4runner blows them out of the water. Toyota did a great job on this model.

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  Cockroach of Cars - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By Deidre - August 27 - 3:30 pm

  This car will just not die, now will it! Im the original owner and must admit that Ive not been the best at regular maintenance. Even so, it keeps crawling along with performance like it was brand new (@ 135K miles). Had it in the shop only 2x since Ive owned it and those were probably issues due to my own neglect. Im reluctant to trade up because I just dont want to be disappointed! If I do, I most certainly will have another Toyota product. Cant beat em!

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  Not bad for a Japanese car - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ToyotaGuy - August 26 - 11:16 pm

  I bought one of the first 2003 4Runners, SR5 with V8, before the V6 became available. Main reason for the purchase was the great powerful V8 and silky smooth ride. I still like it, but wished I had waited a couple of years and bought a used one, since the value dropped so quickly. The car is so reliable and well built, even after almost 7 years it seems like new, so I think that picking up a decent pre-owned one seems a pretty safe bet. Anyway, the 4Runner is not for tall people and it is not the most spacious SUV out there. If you have a big family, I would go for its big brother, the Sequioa, or the Honda Pilot, if you dont need the V8 power.

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  Never Gave Me A Problem - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Carolee - August 26 - 3:46 pm

  Great truck, held up in a head on. If I could find my car on a lot or in a driveway somewhere, I would buy it!

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  Bought it new and still love it - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By jo - August 25 - 5:50 am

  We have over 175000 miles on and off paved roads including many miles of Los Angeles freeway stop and go driving. Replaced the brake pads/rotors ONCE and have had another $350 repair at about 150K. About the same time the antenna motor stopped working. Thats it besides regular service. We will have to replace the clutch at some point but thats because Im hard on them.

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  Yota convert - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By DougT. - August 24 - 10:20 pm

  1999 4Runner SR5 (2WD, 3.4 V6) bought less than six months ago with 95k miles on it. When I test drove it I could not believe how tight (new feeling) everything was for a six year old vehicle with close to a 100k miles on it. The only problems were the power antena didnt work (broken mast, easy fix) and the starter tended to stick. Being a paranoid person, I put it in the shop on day one of owning it to have a complete tune up of all systems as well as a new timing belt, starter, and water pump (since they were at it anyway when replacing the timing belt) Ive driven it an additional 10,000 miles since buying it with not a single problem. So far its the best vehicle Ive ever owned.