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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  05 4 Run Limited - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By redtoy - March 5 - 6:10 am

  Guess the main selling point with me was not only Toyota quality but all the safety feature available and the V8 engine. I also have a GX 470 and it just tops off the 4 Runner platform. But the Runner will give you close to bang for the buck. Good size, performance, and amenities

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  My review of 2005 4 Runner with the V8 - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mark Savage - February 22 - 6:23 pm

  We really like this vehicle overall; just wish gas had not gone up like it did, for we had a 4 cylinder camry prior and it obviously got better mileage; still, on the open road, Ive seen the gas monitor go as high as 24 to 29 mpg when driven between 40 and 55mph. Id guess we were getting about 16 to 20 average though. The power this SUV has is very surprising. A friend of ours has a V6 version and I rode with him and during hard acceleration, I could only tell a little difference in the V6 and V8, so the V6 will serve you well also. Id highly recommend the 4Runner; I just wish I had the 4 wheel drive version for those rare times we get snow or ice in this part of NC.

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  awesome - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By geezer - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Traded a 02 highlander ltd! More stable, better handling, more standard features. Averaging 19-20 mpg, and I drive it fast!My dog loves the power back window-the best feature! I am very analytical and research oriented, and could not find a comparable vehicle without spending many, many thousands more! The v-8 is silky smooth! In Colorado, awd will do most of the time.

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  Tops in Quality - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By DJoseph - February 17 - 10:00 am

  The most fun I have had in a SUV. Had a Nissan and an Isuzu before but 4Runner is the best yet. Forget the American name brand SUVs.

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  Classic and dependable - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ds - February 16 - 5:29 pm

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  Enjoyed my used for 2 years, would not buy another - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Parker - February 13 - 3:50 am

  I purchased a 2002 2wd SR5 from the original owner. Had 150k miles. The SUV was excellent utility-wise for what I use (trips, camping, sleeping, biking, kayaking, dirt roads, etc). However to say this vehicle was reliable is a bit over-statement. The previous owner replaced the transmission at 5 years. I also replaced it. His list of repairs was fairly lengthy, though most of them routine type stuff. I had to do a lot of suspension work, which I guess is OK for a car this age. Could tow a few thousand pounds, but wouldnt go above that due to the power lacking. Awesome sunroof. Gas mileage was decent on the highway (~22). My main gripe with this vehicle was that it just wasnt comfortable at all. As is the problem with Tacomas and 4runners, the seats are low to the ground. Thats fine if youre short, but for me I found on long trips it really wore me down. I purchased mine used for $5k, but spent $6k on it in repairs. Honestly, I felt it was a waste of money for a used middle-of-the-road vehicle. I wouldnt buy one again just based on the comfort-factor alone. Sure if youre someone that drives cars to 400,000 miles then you say toyota but if youre like me and dont do high mileage but might take long trips occasionally, you are definitely going to want a vehicle that is comfortable to be in for those long hours.

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  great suv, quality you can depend on - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By ray - February 12 - 10:03 pm

  after doing much research, I am happy to say that my 4 runner was a great choice. I am very very happy with the bluestone metallic color 4 runner that I have. The interior is beyond comfortable and the car drives great. You have to see it and feel it to believe it. The buttons and controls are great also. There is tons of room in the back cargo area.

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  Great SUV, go anywhere - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By John - February 12 - 11:23 am

  I love my 4runner. I owned a 99 Land Rover Discover II and bought this 4 runner used with 11000 on it. So far, it has only been to the shop because of a querky sun roof gear, but it was fixed, no questions asked. The suspension is the XReas and does great, but makes a noise when you hit a bump making a sharp turn going slowly. The other odd thing is that it squeals when it warms up, but that is a V6 issue and is common with all V6s supposedly, only happens for maybe 30 seconds, and isnt noticeable inside the vehicle because of the excellent noise reduction Toyota has in the vehicle. I love the SUV, recommend it to everyone and I say, great job Toyota, oh yeah V6 acts like a V8.

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  Great Truck - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joe - February 11 - 12:10 am

  This is my first SUV and this is a great choice. Refined ride, great power, smooth transmission and a responsive V8 make a very capable vehicle that can tow a ton, handle any weather, and full time 4WD make it very safe in any conditions. The steering is a bit unresponsive, but once you get used to it, you feel secure in it. The iterior is well made, the leather seating is not as supple like some, but seems to be built more for duribility. MPG is good for a V8. I average 17.9 with mostly stop and go driving.

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  Nice ride - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By john - February 8 - 12:00 pm

  Have 5k trouble free miles. As high as 24 mpg on hwy. Tows a 14 ft enclosed trailer ok. Traded a Acura mdx for this so I could tow. Not as plush but 10 grand less. Also had a gx 470 but couldnt stomach the extra 16 grand. Overall it is a decent ride, not like the high ends but for the money it is good. Toyota did go a little cheap on this one. Metal is too thin, plastic scratches too easy, no memory seats. Its obvious they skimped.