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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  SR5 vs Limited - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chris - October 10 - 12:30 am

  As a small business owners we get a tax break if you purchase a vehicle over 6,000lbs. The 4Runner was at the top of the list at 6,300. The big question...SR5 or Limited (8-10K diff.). Our dealer received the Blizzard White SR5 first (4x4). The day it arrived we drove it and instantly loved it. It had so many standard features that we didnt consider the Limited after this (~$34K vs ~$42K). We purchased the vehicle the next day and have not regretted our decision in the least bit. It is a dream to drive, very comfortable, and fun. We added a remote starter and mud flaps as dealer accessories.

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  missing options - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By carmann - October 7 - 2:13 pm

  Bad stuff......No power seats??? A/C controls look like a 1960s design. Seat fabric looks it came out of an old airplane. Radio has mediocre sound quality. Way too much gap around tires - it looks empty. 7 empty console & dash buttons with plastic filler plugs - real cheesy design. Automatic headlights should be standard in this era. All windows should be express down & up. Front seatbacks need to be deeper.Great stuff.....bullet proof reliability, quiet ride, strong 6 cyl motor, excellent 5 speed tranny, terrific handling and turning radius, top notch quality, cold A/C, nice wide travel tilt wheel, power rear hatch pulldown, power hatch window is great.

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  I love my 4-runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Esther - October 6 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd 4-runner and I absolutely love them. I finally got my limited and I love the quality, design and service after the sale. You will not find a better quality vehicle for the price. You get what you pay for and this vehicle costs a little more,but, it will run for 250,000 miles rather than the usual 100,000 you find elsewhere. I would recommend this vehicle for someone who wants quality without getting into a Lexus!!

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  Scotts 4-runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Scotts Truck - October 1 - 6:53 am

  Overall - excellent vehicle. Could use more horse power and torque to handle the weight.

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  outstanding suv - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By elc campbell - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Purchased on 4-17-03.Toyota hit a homerun with the limited edition.The ride is smooth and I must say the preformance is outstanding.I sold my mercedes CL-500 (2000) and purchased the limited edition because the ride is better than the mercedes and it just is a better all around vehicle. Trust me,you will not be disappointed if you purchase one.A "10" overall!!!

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  PA salt killed my frame - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By brian. - September 29 - 3:13 am

  1997 4Runner SR5 4WD. Bought it 7 yrs old with 103K miles. Replaced antisway bar link a year later and noticed a lot of new frame surface rust. 5 years since i bought it the frame rusted through. What a shame, it was a typical strong, solid Toyota. It would have run for 100K or more no problem.

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  2006 Toyota Limited V8 Black - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Allen - September 25 - 4:43 am

  This is the first car the wife and I both just love. Was great in deep snow. We also like the 110 outlet right in the center console. Power seats with 2 preset adjustments is really nice. We average about 17.5 city and hwy, and about 19/20 on just hwy at 75.

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  Brand new and lovin it...... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By robsjunx - September 24 - 10:00 am

  Needed more room and got exactly that plus more. i love all the extra ammenities that came with my sport edition and i love that its sooo smooth. it drives just like a car!!!

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  A truly American SUV - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By extoyota - September 22 - 2:56 pm

  My 6th 4runner since 1989 and my last. Toyota got its wish, they are now an American car company. Cheapest, poorest example of a 4Runner i have bought. compared to my previous 5 there is no comparison. Go by something else dont waste 40 grand like me

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  Awesome Truck - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By C - September 21 - 6:36 pm

  5 years of owning this 4runner, no issues yet, everything still original except for tires, had over 30,000 miles on them. just replaced with new ones. gas mileage: consistently average 25 a gallon, some trips i get 27-30. yes youre reading this correctly, i can get over 30 a gallon with the v6. pros-everything is great cons-NONE!