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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  excellent - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By dr gonzo - January 6 - 10:00 am

  perfect so far the 4 runner has gotten better then exspected mpg. toyota made it wider and more roomy inside. the 4 runner is soild and performs perfectly

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  Great Ride - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jack - January 2 - 11:40 pm

  This vehicle is very nice, it handles well, drives smooth, has great power, and an awesome safety rating. It drives well around town and handles very well on the highway. Everything you can think of and more is designed into the interior, making the 4-Runner very user friendly. You can not find a better SUV for this price range.

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  4Runner 4ever - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Papa - January 2 - 12:33 am

  The most reliable vehicle I have owned! After 10 years, my 4Runner is as solid as the day I drove it off the lot. I think I will pass it on to my grandson who is currently 9 years old.

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  Love my Freda the 4-Runner-Limited - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By Cathy Moore - January 1 - 11:32 pm

  Bought my 4-Runner Thanksgiving of 2011 & I wouldnt trade her for any other vehicle on the road. She has been to Mackinac, North Carolina (twice) South Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, New Orleans & never had her in the shop for repairs. We live in NW Ohio where the winters have been pretty brutal the last couple years & she never failed to get me through deep snow & rough roads. We will keep her till the wheels rust off. My husband has a 2007 Tundra that also is still going strong with no shop repairs. Toyota makes the best vehicles on the road bar none.

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  Very nice vehicle - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By JMont - December 31 - 4:03 pm

  Sold my 2-seater sports car to upgrade to an SUV. Bought the vehicle used with 40K miles. The original owner took excellent care of the vehicle. Very happy with the vehicle so far. I have the limited version with almost every feature except the navigation and 4WD. Did not want the 4WD but the navigation would be nice. I think my only complaint would be the fuel mileage (15-16mpg) in the city but I knew what I was getting in to with the V8.

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  Not too bad for the money - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By suishin - December 30 - 5:56 pm

  I was very happy when the first two year. Everything goes downhill when I took it off road once. Bad gas mileage. Used to be combination of local and highway got me 22-24. As now with only 40,000 miles on it gives only 16-17. And cd player went out at 35,999 mile. Not just that, the tire sensor went out too.

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  Best Choice I have made in a vehicle! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By James H. - December 30 - 3:10 pm

  I have been a pickup truck buyer for a long time (20 years or more) and I decided this time to look into an SUV for myself and I fell in love with the looks of the 4runner. I didnt know until after I test drove and then bought this SUV how much I was going to love it! The performance, feel, muscular stance and appearance and quality of build is impressive. I will definitely buy another one if I ever decide to trade this (dont know when that will happen!).

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  MY 4RUNNER - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runner34 - December 24 - 2:00 am

  MY 4RUNNER HAS BEEN EXCEPTIONALLY GOOD TO ME, I HAD TO GO TO THE DEALER ON MONTH AFTER I GOT IT BECAUSE THE SUN ROOF RAILS NEED REPLACING BECAUSE THEY WERE RATTLING.....OTHER THAN THAT THIS SUV IS GREAT!

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  Great Car - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Grant - December 22 - 12:20 pm

  Bought this truck with 30,000 miles and have over 140,000 miles on it now. Had to replace rear axle seals at 50,000 miles, other than that has had ZERO problems (mechanical or otherwise). Just do regular maintenance and the truck runs and runs! 4WD works great in bad weather, and truck tows strong. Interior, switches, gauges, and controls have all held up great (leather seats & motors, window controls & motors, AC, heater, CD, all power equipment, etc.) Will definitely buy another 4Runner!

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  Best yet - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By NIK - December 22 - 4:06 am

  I have owned over the past twenty years, five 4 runners all generations up to this one including the original P/U cap model. This one beats them all. The engine is more than adequate for my needs. The design is aggressive looking especially in black with the 20 inch wheels. The interior is laid out well. Road visibility is great due to the vehicles height and the ride while truck like is firm and not sloppy. Love the Nav system and the remote start.