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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  2014 4Runner Premium - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steven F - June 19 - 6:04 pm

  Great all around truck/SUV! Not a performance vehilce.

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  Best all around SUV in class - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Terry - June 17 - 4:10 pm

  I drove all the SUVs and this was the best overall choice. I own 2. A Limited and the SR 5 for my wife. The only drawback to the SR 5 is leather and a power seat should be an option in the SR 5 V-6.

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  Very Nice! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By bobbbb - June 16 - 10:00 am

  We bought this 4Runner a few weeks ago and love it. Had the last 4Runner for almost 9 years (and 147,000 trouble free miles!), but it was time for a new one. You can really tell the quality is there unlike most of the competition. The handling is great and the power is great in the 6-cyl. What more can you ask for? Its a great vehicle (and Im not normally a fan of SUVs!).

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  Toyota has done it again. - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By TITAN1 - June 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven every SUV out there,and I can honestly tell you the 2003 Four- runner is the best of the lot.Its "i- force" V8 impossibly smooth,strong and refined.Fuel economy is actually pretty decent for a SUV of this size and weight (Ive averaged 17 in the city and about 21 on the highway.)As for interior appointments; they are second to none, with unquestionably the best stereo Ive heard in any vehicle, suv or otherwise.By the look,sound and feel of things in the cockpit, youd almost swear you were in a Lexus.Add to all of this that the completely redesigned Fourrunner has killer good looks,and go- anywhere all-wheel-drive capability.

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  Kudos to Toyota - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By HuntPSU1 - June 16 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased my V6 Ltd with all the bells and whistles. Previously drove a 97 4Runner Ltd 4x4. Theres no comparison to the older model--the 2003 model is tops in all categories-- handling, power, features, and in my opinion, styling. While not cheap-- dealers are negotiating on price. My previous 4Runner had no significant problems, and I expect nothing less with this one. If you are in the market, definitely test drive it--it will impress you!

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  No vehicle has come close - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By JCM - June 14 - 3:03 pm

  This is my second 4Runner. After driving an SR5 for 3 years I decided to lease the Limited. After 3 years of reliability I decide to purchase it. 185,000+ miles later I am still enjoying the reliability of the best vehicle Ive ever owned. It has never had any major mechanical problems. Ive had to replace the battery twice, brake pads once (always parked outdoors), and only now do I have to replace the muffler. The only electrical problem is the CD player skipping. It has been so reliable I am going to drive it until the wheels fall off.

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  fantastic! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By m4hand - June 13 - 8:56 am

  Best all around SUV I have ever driven. The exterior is very stylish and sporty, the interior is well laid out (once you get used to the strange HVAC controls), and the seats are very comfortable. Plenty of space in the cargo area as well as with the seats folded down. Fuel economy is decent for an SUV of its size. V6 is more than enough for a punchy, fun drive.

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  Back to a Toyota - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Carl - June 11 - 10:30 am

  Bought my 2000 4Runner XR5 in 2009 with a little over 100,000 miles on it. After "experimenting" with a Ford Expedition (Junk) and Chevy Suburban (actually not a bad vehicle), I am glad to be back to Toyota. Styling is timeless and it runs like a top. My only complaint is that it is underpowered. Although it has a 5000 lb tow rating, it labors to pull my 2,500 lb boat, especially going up hills. Other than that, it has been a great vehicle.

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  My 2 day review of my 1996 4-runner - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By hypnosisracing - June 11 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my 4-Runner just 2 days ago, and already i have to agree with many here that this is quite possibly the nicest SUV on the market for the price. With 108,000 miles on the odometer i payed just above $10,000 for mine (a steal thanks to my brothers car lot and team). This truck is just a dream come true...interior is awesome, exterior is awesome and over all...this thing is amazing, perfect for my needs, as i haul my track civic around to various locations for show and races, this thing in the last 2 days has sold me again and again.

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  4-Runner Nothing Else Will Do - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By AAJoe - June 11 - 10:00 am

  This is my favorite SUV I have ever owned. (99 Tahoe, 92 K-5 Blazer, 87 Cherokee, 82 CJ7) I tested the 2003 Tahoe, Discovery, Trailblaizer & Durango and I would have paid a $5000 premium for the powertrain and handling of the 4-Runner. New for 2003 increased size and V-8 option won me over. The best of the "real" 4x4 SUVs if you dont have a large family.