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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  Great value for the $$ - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By jim - December 9 - 7:43 pm

  I bought my 4Runner new about 3 years ago and just turned 60,000 miles. Have had no trouble at all, had to replace tires and front brakes at 50K and that is it. Car has a great ride, decent power, ok gas mileage around 20 city/highway, very comfortable. I also own an 05 Explorer Limited and I cant compare the two vehicles, the Toyota hands down in every way is better. Toyota also holds its value, my Explorer is a year newer with half the miles and is worth less.

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  Dependibility - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mark Yonke - December 7 - 7:20 pm

  I have spent 32 years in the auto industry on the retail level, and Toyota is the best of the best.They hold their value, and they do not break. My 4-Runner has 90,000 miles on it,and I have replace one set of tires, abattery and the power antenna mast. It still has the original brakes with 80% front and 90% rear linings left. My next vehicle will be the Tundra 4dr Truck.

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  Highly overrated - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By jose65 - December 6 - 9:08 pm

  in cold climate, it takes unreasonably long for the engine to get into normal operating range. (about 8 miles of driving) the interior heater is weak even at the max and takes very long to warm up the interior. Suspension is hard when driving over bumps and potholes, not good for the spine running boards are useless for a taller person as they are in the way front dives and rear moves up under hard breaking engine is loud and sounds rough around 2500rpm sheet metal is very thin, waves can be seen on the hood when going through car wash dryer

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  Great, but for a few things... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bret Walker - December 1 - 2:00 am

  Great suv, just needs a couple things changed...

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  User Unfriendly - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ron - November 29 - 8:16 pm

  We selected the 4Runner based on headroom, oh well, it fooled me. The drivers side is vertically adjustable and during the test drive it seemed to be just marginal. Im not real big but at 61" after purchasing the vehicle for my wife I found that the passengers seat is too restrictive to bring my head along for the ride unless the seat is reclined. With the unconventional layout of the controls as an occasional user I find myself stopping on the side of the road to find things. Fuel economy is marginal at best when the cost of premium is factored (didnt know that at time of purchase). It gets really bad when towing, at 8 mpg towing 4000 lbs that about 30% more expensive than my club cab 5.9L Ram.

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  99 4Runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By jerryhutcheson - November 29 - 4:06 am

  Not one problem. Trouble free. Retrofitted K&N cold air intake. 20-21 MPG. A Pleasure to drive.

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  Best built and looking SUV made - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Big Guy - November 29 - 3:16 am

  We love our 4 runner, it is handsome, well built, reliable and we feel very safe driving it due to its great visibility and so many safty features. In addition, with its powerful V8 we average over 19 MPG. We plan to own our 4Runner for many years and miles to come. We give it a 9.5 rating only because it lacks a 6 way passanger seat.

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  My second 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Neospazzy - November 25 - 10:00 am

  The 2004 models got rid of the matte- finished fender flares on all the trims. They are replaced by the color coded ones. I was deciding on either the Caddy SRX, Infiniti FX-35, and the Lexus RX330 and realized that none of these cars will bear the truck-like performance I have grow to love from the my old 2001 4Runner SR5. This new V6 engine can really launch the car through the passing lane without effort. The new model also dampens the exterior road noise.

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  Toyota 4 Runner SR5 2WD V8 Review - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Martins in West, TX - November 25 - 10:00 am

  The new 4 Runner has a much more comfortable ride than the older models. No bouncing feeling on the road. The vehicle is very stable. The 3rd row seating is great for kids. Not enough foot room for adults. Telescoping Steering wheel would be great for SR5 but not offered unless you scale up to a sport or limited model. Sharp appearance. Plenty of room. The vehicle will tow well and towing hitch is standard. Be careful with towing hitch. Some models come with 7500 LB tow hitch and others come with 5000 LB hitch. The 7500 LB hitch comes with transmission cooler located inside the front grill.

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  4running wild - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mark Maggio - November 23 - 1:50 pm

  I am now a converted Toyota owner. The feel of the vehicle is excellent and the quality and finish are top notch. It is a fun ride that handles like a champ in the snow and the mud. Driving has not been this fun in a long time.