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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  Hello 4Runner - Good Bye GM - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sport Ed - January 20 - 10:00 am

  This is my first non-GM SUV, and I am loving it! The 2004 Toyota 4Runner V8 Sport Edition 4WD is a great vehicle for looks, comfort, quietness, value, performance, build, and reliability. Most of my driving tends to be city, on-road, with some highway, variable weather, with a little off-road, but my overall mileage is at 19.2 mpg which is great for a V8 4WD. I am also glad I have a 4Runner model that has all the improvements made since 2003. I have previously owned full-size K-Blazers, S-Blazers, and full-size Tahoes from Chevy, but now I cant ever imagine getting anything else to drive other than another 4Runner. This seems to be the overall best vehicle that I have ever owned. Period.

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  Just supercharge it! - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By vvti168 - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Overall, this is a very nice, safe vehicle. It drives very solidly. The steering is nicely weighted. It is sized just right for someone who lives in a large city w/ tight parking spaces.

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  BEST OF SUV OUTHERE - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chris D - January 16 - 2:00 am

  powerful V8 engine , rugged look , many nice standard , and it fast

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  Does not Match up to 2005 4Runner Sport - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By joestehling - January 12 - 12:57 am

  Basic vehicle is good but numerous things are cheapened and useless items added from the 2005 Sport model. Reliability has yet to be determined but I am confident it will be as reliable as the 2005 Sport I traded in.

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  Never Again - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By McGuire - January 11 - 10:00 am

  This is now my third Toyota that has rusted to the point of no return. I paid for and used an extened rust warranty. After only 3 years the truck needed paint and body work on the doors, fenders and tailgate. They are all in need of work again - $2000 worth. Not this time.

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  Oh What a Feeling - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sharper - January 11 - 10:00 am

  Picked up my new 4Runner in early February - 5 days before a major winter storm (18" of snow). Absolutely LOVE this vehicle. Fantastic in the snow - exceeded my expectations all the way. Very comfortable, more than adequate power, lots of room for all passangers. Quality built and a blast to drive. Ive got over 7K miles on it now and people are still asking how I like it and I still answer the same - I absolutely love it - I have nothing bad to say. Oh, and Im getting almost 21 miles per gallon on the highway - you cant beat that in an SUV!!

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  Love it! - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By vorgps - January 8 - 10:13 pm

  Bought this used with 76,000 and it has been a terrific vehicle to own. Now has 110,000 and only minor easily correctable problems. Had to replace radio antenna, inside rear window switch, had a really weird quirk with the brakes when we first bought it. The front drivers side (and possibly the rear drivers side) were grabbing and locking up causing the vehicle to pull rough to the left. Checked out by 2 toyota mechanics. Stumped them. Replaced both front pads and it was the same for about 1 week then it just stopped pulling and hasnt done it since. Latest is the rear window brackets, all rusted out. Have not had any problems with head gasket blowing as others have.

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  Its simply amazing - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Matt D. - January 8 - 12:13 pm

  The Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition is simply an amazing vehicle. I have owned the car for just over six months now I could not have asked for anything more! It runs like a Lexus but has the price of Toyota. The interior is stunning with a slick exterior to make the vehicle aesthetically pleasing. The engine runs magnificently with good pickup and a smooth ride. Off the road the shocks are perfect! The ride is soft but you can still feel a little bit of vibration, a true sport vehicle. I have driven and owned many other SUVs in the past but this one is certainly at the top of the list. It is simply amazing!!

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  2003 4Runner SR5 2WD V-8 - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By sbncolr - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Bought this vehicle over a 2003 Pilot, which was hard to find in the right color and cost $2,600 more. My drive out price w/ lighted running boards, the appearance pack., and auto-dimming rear view mirror was $28.1K. The car came with a bad tire (Michellin CrossTerrain), which was promptly replaced by the dealership, but no defects so far. For dollar for dollar, this is one of the best value vehicles in the category. Glad that I got the V-8 over V-6, as the difference in fuel economy is minimal, but the bigger engine is so quite, smooth, and powerful.

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  WOW!! This is what I was looking for. - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By trophycat - January 6 - 10:00 am

  Really wasnt looking to buy, but after a test drive I found myself sitting at the table with a salesman working on numbers. I was impressed with the new V6 engine and the quietness of the cabin at speeds. Vehicle had all the features we were looking for which came standard.