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 it! - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By ksdogwalker - May 20 - 5:11 am

  I bought this truck used in 2011, with 138k miles. Yes, you read that correctly: 138,000 miles! Everything had just been 100% serviced and it was like buying it brand new. In the 30k miles I have had it (including driving halfway across the country), I have only had 2 issues. 1. I have had the driveshaft (?) lubricated twice due to a "thunk" sound and small lurch when stopping - no charge by the dealer; apparently it is common. 2. This winter, the back hatch has begun to freeze when its below 30° outside and becomes impossible to open (at least for this gal!). Sort of a pain. Of note: the paint scratches relatively easily, but I havent noticed any rust issues. Just irritating.

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  Second 4Runner - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By pilot - May 18 - 6:40 pm

  I traded in a 1998, which was a VERY good car. This one is more refined, less truck like, and bigger. It gets about the same miles per gallon (19 in mixed driving, 24 on the highway at 55mph). No repairs after 6 months.

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  Like a rock - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By richard randall - May 15 - 2:53 am

  Sorry, couldnt resist the title but this thing is built like one. Quiet, comfortable, lots of power in the V6 with good gas mileage, I get around 22 mostly in-town driving. Its a sweet ride!

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  4Runner Limited - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By mdjohnson - May 12 - 2:00 am

  I love it! All I had hoped for and more. A rugged SUV that rides like a dream.

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  I love this vehicle, except... - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By Angela Mac - May 11 - 9:05 pm

  The windshield tint or glass causes eye strain, dizziness & headaches on long trips or when commuting daily. I loved everything about this car so much the first 3 months I owned it until I began commuting an hour to work every day and realized that there is something about the windshield that extremely bothers my eyes. My local dealership had a technician drive it and they agreed that it seemed to have a warp to it that made his head hurt while driving it. They replaced it with another factory glass windshield, but it continues to bother me and they say that there is nothing left they can do. I never would have noticed it had I not been driving it so long everyday. Around town or short trips seem completely fine. Other than that its an amazing SUV that I really love driving! Much roomier than the older 4runners inside. Cant wait until I can get this issue fixed or Toyota recalls the windshield!

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  Best Mid-Sized SUV on Market! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By klegg - May 9 - 10:56 am

  Ive read most of the posts here, and most of positive ones are right on. We have the 2005 v8 4x4, and its exceeded our expectations. Plenty of power, interior room is good and the height-adjustable driver seat is very comfortable and accommodates a variety of body types. Towing our 2300 lb popup camper from Denver to Page AZ with climate control gave us 16mpg at average of 65mph! Thats pretty good! Control layout is very good. MPG in town has been a consistent 17, and weve had as much as 24 on highway. Its been as bad as 16, but if you dont drive it like you stole it, it will easily do 18.

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  Love Our 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Hell on Wheels - May 5 - 4:26 pm

  Bought New 12/31/2002 Fully Loaded with V8. Buying fully loaded made it essentially a Lexus GX 470 without the SNOB quotient - also it wasnt even available at the time. It is "pricey" when fully loaded - But worth it if you want the power seats - F/T all wheel drive and an excellent all around family automobile without having a minivan.

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  Very happy with mine - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By compguy - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Now has 40K. Perfect size for me and my outdoor activities. I wouldnt want to be 6+ in the drivers seat. We take 2 kids camping with adequate room for kids and gear. Firm suspension but I wanted something to take 4 wheelin in the back country in Colorado - excellent there. Drives nice to me on the highway. Rarely need to use FWD in snow storms in the mountains. About 23 MPG from Grand Junction to Denver OVER the rockies / 19-20 around town - great for an SUV. I asked my mechanic about Toyotas before I bought one. Said I wouldnt see him much any more but when I do it will cost me. Good fit and finish, hasnt needed anything but oil changes in 40K.

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  Dream SUV - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ramon - April 27 - 4:10 am

  We bought the suv this weekend and I have to say I love driving it. The ride is so smooth its incredible.

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  Would Recommend - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ryan Krug - April 26 - 10:56 pm

  If you want a vehicle that will last, this is the one for you.