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:

• 

  SR5 with third row seating - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Morph - December 19 - 1:56 pm

  So far the only issue is a little steering wheel wobble at 60 MPH. Possible wheel alignment issue. Everything else about the SR5 is fantastic. Love the fact that rear window rolls down and all other windows including the ones in back seat go all the way down. Great in snow and seat comfort is great. The little moon light that illuminates the front gearshift area is a great feature.Reclining rear seats and satellite radio, as well as blue tooth phone are some of my favorite features. In metallic gray the chrome really stands out. Third seat is preferred over the goofy roll out tray. Who ever came up with that feature should be shot. Overall very pleased with the purchase!

• 

  Awesome!!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By wingotop - December 19 - 10:00 am

  V8 has tremendous power and good fuel economy considering the higher horsepower. Seats are very comfortable. It has lots of room and more features than I even know how to use.

• 

  gentle beast! - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By willowvt - December 19 - 2:00 am

  love this rig! even with all the SUV bashing pressure, im still proud to drive my 4Runner. rugged and high with a solid, smooth ride, its incredibly reliable and ready for anything, with never a problem! i started out leasing, and when my lease ran out i was faced with leasing the 2000 model, which had been re-styled more like a soccer mom SUV, yuk! so i bought out my lease on the 98 and now will drive it forever. it still looks/acts new at 93K miles; i do all the recommended maintenance and all ive replaced is tires and waterpump! and even after 6 winters in vt, still no sign of rust! wow

• 

  My Baby! - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Eyes of Texas - December 16 - 10:00 am

  My 4-runner was a big expense, but after test driving all the other SUVs in its class, there was no comparison. Id do it again in a heartbeat. I love it!

• 

  Toyota Quality - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By shellyp - December 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 4runner for almost 4 years and love every second of it. Its a classy suv with the ruggedness that most suvs lack. This is the most reliable vehicle ive owned..Best $38k that i spent on a vehicle.

• 

  4Runnin - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By ChiefJoJo74 - December 15 - 8:36 am

  I bought my 4Runner in September of 2002 (one of the last of its generation). Its my first SUV, and I wouldnt trade it for any other. The ride is rough/firm, gas mileage isnt very good (18-23 mpg), and its short on low end torque but... its the best looking SUV out there in my opinion, is roomy without being too big to manuver in the city, has a great multi-mode 4WD system with traction/skid control (great for rain/snow), performs extremely well off-road, has good brakes, great ergonomics, and is very solidly built and reliable (no problems after 38k mi) and will probably last for well over 200k miles with good maintenance.

• 

  Drive One - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By The best SUV - December 12 - 6:30 pm

  I have driven a lot of SUVs and this one definitely was the most fun and comfortable of them all. It is very quiet inside and feels solid. Not to mention that the V8 really gets up and goes.

• 

  Awesome - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By DHare - December 10 - 2:00 am

  I couldnt wait until the 03 style came out because I had heard it woud be great. Well, I was not disappointed . I had to have it. Only had it one week but it is a super machine-great improvement.

• 

  Last of the 2005s - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By moulton - December 6 - 7:00 pm

  Toyota is "updating" much of its model line this fall, including the 4Runner. I wanted to purchase the 05 before the end of the model year because of its excellent track record and high ratings. Im sure the 06 will be equally as successful, but theres a lot to be said for acquiring a "classic"! The Limited model is an impeccable amalgam of engineering, design, form and function. Its GX470 Lexus counterpart is a really a Limited 4Runner in disguise! My wife and I love the quiet ride, impeccable safety features and rugged capabilites of the 4Runner. Former owners of a Jeep Grand Cherokee, off-roading capabilities with street manners was a must. We highly recommend this vehicle!

• 

  OUTSTANDING TOP TO BOTTOM - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By PETENAMYT - December 5 - 2:00 am

  We had a 99 4 Runner, and at the time thought it was the greatest, now that weve had our 2003 for a few weeks we cant believe how much it has been improved. Its bigger, faster, quieter and more comfortable, and the price from what I can tell is actually lower even though its an 8 and not a 6.