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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  I love this truck - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By sharynlee - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted a 4runner. This truck is gorgeous and rides like butter. I drove it from New York to Florida and back. It was a pleasure. The black body with the silver inserts on the bumper is really sharp. Great truck.

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  MY TOYOTA :: Can you say Lemon! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve Burleson - August 6 - 10:00 am

  1.The tires weights were 90 degrees off of balance and the weights were the wrong size on those tires. 2.Wind noise in the front driver side door (somewhere) 3.When I apply the brakes while driving the vehicle will sometimes pull severly to the right or left as if the brakes are not properly adjusted or the alignment. 4.Engine tapping (lifter noise) coming from the right front that is significant but seems to somewhat diminish goes after the engine is warmed up. 5.CD player would not work without CDs skipping. Dealer of course says everything is perfect, noting the dealer did change out the CD player.

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  2001 4RUNNER FRAME CORROSION - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By maine4runner - August 6 - 7:36 am

  Been a good vehicle to date, but the latest issue is major. Frame corrosion by muffler which will not pass inspection without getting fixed. This is at 112K miles and 11 years. Beside the chrome bumpers which I just replaced, the rest of the car is perfect. Toyota response is a case #, and will not tell me how many cases have been reported. The local dealer has had a few come in with the same issue. Searching the internet, I find many people with similiar issues. Anybody having similiar experiance.

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  Best SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By infinitewisdom - August 5 - 1:17 pm

  bought my 97 SR5 as a demo with 20k on it. It has been the most reliable car ever. I think the late 90s was a time when Japan and Toyota in particular decided to overtake GM and Ford in market share and the chose product quality as their method of attack. Essentially this car is the antithesis of a GM or Ford. It never breaks. I have replaced the battery brakes and tires and a few worn out mechanisms like the ignition switch and bulbs but everything else remains in perfect working order and starts every single time I turn it over. I just hit 225k and am handing the keys to my 16 year old daughter who refuses to drive anything else because she grew up in this vehicle.

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  Great job, Toyota! - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike - August 5 - 10:00 am

  This is my second 4Runner, my first being a 2006 SR5 4WD. I have also driven a 2000 SR5. Toyota has done an excellent job with the redesign of this vehicle. It still feels like a 4Runner, but has better power, comfort and refinement all around. I am hard pressed to find a reason for some of the negative reviews I have read, as the vehicle is as good as it gets for a SUV. I am averaging 19.5 mpg, the seats are very comfortable, the engine has plenty of power, the turning radius is small, the suspension soaks up everything, and the vehicle just has an overall feel of quality. The 10 4Runner has remained true to its roots, but is better than ever.

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  SR5 V8 4WD - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mark - August 5 - 8:43 am

  Absolutely great ride! Perfect performer. Pulls 3400# Boat w/no probs (rated for 7000#) through mountains! Full time 4wd makes seamless driving in mud (snow tests this winter)! Miss my Tundras hauling abilities (the truck bed) but what could I expect? Yes, sulfer smell with rear window open and engine under pressure. Sunroof is great. MPG is 15- 20, constant 2-3 under what the onboard computer states.?. Tons of compliments!

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  Love it. - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jackson - August 2 - 11:06 am

  If youre thinking of getting one, quit thinking and get it. Its the cream of the class. I cant say enough good things about it.

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  231K miles and counting - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By howie b - August 1 - 9:06 am

  I bought this new in 98 and it has served me very well. I drove it 231K miles and now I have handed it down to my son and I got a new (well, an 07) one. One brake job at 185K, no repairs to speak of other than a starter motor. GREAT vehicle. Totally dependable and a monster in the snow. This has been a great vehicle and will continue to serve my family well.

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  What a change! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By chabney - July 31 - 2:00 am

  We had looked at earlier 4-Runners but dismissed them because they were too "truck-like." After test-driving this one we were hooked! It DEFINITELY doesnt ride like a "truck", and is one of the smoother SUVs weve driven! Weve owned and/or driven over a dozen recent model SUVs (Grand Cherokee, TrailBlazer, Explorer, Mountaineer, etc.....) but this has been our favorite, BY FAR! Contrary to other reviewers, I actually like the temperature controls and "fake granite" trim. The controls are easy to use and the granite is 100% better than fake woodgrain!

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  Wow - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By jw - July 28 - 9:10 pm

  Wow! This car has to be the best suv of its size on the market today. It looks good and drives smooth. Im getting about 20mpg which I think is great. Its not a 4cylinder car of course. It has all the great advancements and new technology that makes toyota what it is today. Toyota is about quality and customer loyalty. They know that car is going to last a couple hundred thousand miles and when your through you gonna get a new toyota.