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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  Makes Me Laugh!! - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
  By pipes3 - December 5 - 1:17 am

  I laugh every time I read the reviews about the 2012 4runner because they are all way off!! People, please remember this is not a sports car or a preppy crossover which all of the experts unfairly compare this truck to. What these so called experts do not realize is that there is nothing out there comparable to this burly, reliable, beast of an SUV. Consumer reports with the 4-foot red-head who bashes the 4runner is ridiculous! She has the truck going through a slalom and says there is too much body roll! Really!! This truck is solid as a rock, will run for 300,000 miles and looks tough as nails. Do yourself a favor and test drive this truck and do not listen to the bad reviews....

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  240k runs great! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4everRunner - December 3 - 11:26 pm

  Purchased this truck two months ago and am very satisfied with it. The highway mpg is 20 but city driving returns terrible mileage, at about 14. Hesitant before finally deciding to buy due to its high mileage, but after starting driving, it is very satisfying, particularly the engine. Some interior rattling over bumps but highway cruising is fairly pleasant. 4WD is noticeably more smooth and accelerate more powerfully than rear wheel drive, but probably consumes more gas. Perhaps due to its high mileage, when 4WD is engaged, the turning of front wheels cant reach maximum angle. I plan to drive until the truck dies - if gas price allows.

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  1st SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tina - December 2 - 11:00 am

  This is the first SUV I have ever owned and I would have to say its a wonderful car, I previoulsy owned 2 Civics but I do really like this truck. Its not too big or too small for me being only 5 tall. Plenty of room for my 2 dogs and they do love sticking their head out the back window. Purchased it with 118k mi and its a little over 120k, have only owned it for 2 mo. The cupholders did keep my tea warm/hot for the 1/2hr drive to work. The original stereo (soon to be replaced) still has some kick to it. The front leather seats little tattered, think it was pretty beat up from the prev. owner. But awesome truck in all!!!!

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  Happy purhase! - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By Leah - December 2 - 6:07 am

  Bought my 2014 4Runner SR5 Preimium recently to replace my 97 4Runner (upgrade purchase). Really have enjoyed the new car. We considered the 2016 but found little to no difference in features and driving from the 2014. My car obviously was used but was still under warranty (30k miles). The radio and clock had to be replaced entirely- voice control was poor, and some non functioning buttons on radio, and the clock lagged a bit. But it was under warranty so was free for us. Overall, we have really enjoyed owning it and love the features like steering wheel buttons, heated seats, 8 settings on driver seat, roomy, sunroof, back window slides down, 3rd row seat, 2nd row reclines and sides fwd or bckwd, plug outlet in very back, and more!

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  Wheres the sludge? - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By crew dawg - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Taut, strong SUV. Average 20 MPG. Excellent body trim and fit. Leather seating soft, yet durable. Acceleration adequate, for 183 HP V6.

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  What a feeling - great SUV !! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By skykingrc - November 29 - 10:00 am

  This is one really great SUV. Drive much tighter and quieter than any other car/van/truck that I have owned. Realiability doesnt get any better than this. I know I will be staying with TOYO

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  Very comfortable SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By vladimir - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I checked a few SUVs and ended up buying a 4 Runner. It is very comfortable and pleasant to drive. My only concern is about reliability on a long run. I hope that my Toyota will hold up to the Toyota name. There is plenty of room to store my tools, dog or any stuff I need to move. Also Edmunds reviews helped me in shaping my choice but the test drives of different SUVs finalized it. Mileage p.gallon city/highway combination 18.2 - 18.9.

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  LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!!!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Lanette - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I have drooled over the 4Runner for years, but I thought it was just out of reach. My husband bought this truck for me after my sweet little 2002 Jetta went ka-put. The new stying is great. It handles like a dream, power is awsome, and interior is luxurious- mmmm. I am the envy of all at work...my baby loves me! He bought me the most awsome ride around!!

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  A good decision - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By A good decision - November 28 - 9:46 am

  Picked up a 2005 4-runner V6 limited in March 05 and thus far am very satisfied. Exterior is visually pleasing as is the interior. Build quality seems exceptional. Controls are well placed and designed. Plenty of cup holders a plus. Drives well for a mid-sized SUV and in comparison to other similar SUVs, road manners are more refined. Actually feels like a tank on the road with regards to safety. Definitely very excited to get up in the morning and drive to work these days.

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  4Runner owner review - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Art Hyde Jr - November 28 - 1:03 am

  Highway mileage varies from 28 w/ 4 studded snows to 32 with 4 summer tires. Corrugated shifter makes vehicle feel like a sports car on mountain pass roads. High ride height allows one to be on eye level of other SUVs. Stability Conttrol w/ ABS prevented me from hitting elk that jumped out on icy road in front of me: vehicle did not flip. Bought optional XM radio which souds great w/ factory sound system. Not spongy off-road: enough ground clearance. No repairs if one follows factory mtce. Have owned a 4Runner (4 cyl & V6) every 3 years since 1990 & love the electric rear window.