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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  Good but needs more to compete - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4dr limited 4wd suv - November 10 - 3:40 am

  I love the look of my 4Runner, she rides pretty good. Its a Limited so youd think I would have a lot. On the contrary, no navigation system like other SUVs for that price, the interior lighting is lousy on the doors and it is hard to clear up the truck when it gets foggy, which happens a lot. No iPod hook-up or MP3 player, no bells and whistles so to speak, but I love the outside look.

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  I HATE MY 2010 TOYOTA 4RUNNER - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By mosternaz - November 9 - 10:16 am

  I owned a 1997 Toyota 4runner for 13 years with only one major repair in $160,000 miles. It never once stranded me. Someone hit me and totaled it. I bought a new 2010 Toyota 4runner. In the last six months it has stranded me twice and I have had 4 major repairs. The throttle body was first, then the brake switch. Next was the blue tooth system and last night the entire windshield cracked in half (stress fracture, not a rock). I just cant trust this car. It is a lemon and Toyota doesnt care. It is also very hard to see out of the back windows. The body is wider than it needs to be. My mileage is 20 mpg, which is fine. Comfort is good for sitting on the side of the road waiting.

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  Great SUV - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By dinger82 - November 7 - 4:46 pm

  Love my SR5 Limited 4Runner. Its a 5sp!

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  2003 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By lanette - November 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had my truck for a year. I love this truck, but have had it in the shop 3 times for front end noise. The technition can never duplicate the offending sound and therefore can never fix it. Strangely enough, when I come in for a ride with the technition the sound is gone. Talk about shady. My stereo is being replaced Thursday for a constant Error1 signal, and my sunroof has an intermittant problem. But for all the irritations, I love my truck!

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  Sweet Ride - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Stevesemm - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Purchased a 2001 Black SR5 w/ the sport package. Man this thing is great looking! I shopped around and found others that offered more for the $ but it all came down to the kick a** looks of the 4Runner sport!!! My only complaint is that my wife drives it more than me!!!! Love my 4Runner!!!

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  2003 Toyota 4runner Limited V8 4wd - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By MTS - November 1 - 6:10 pm

  Great vehicle. I bought it as a dealer demo with 7500 miles on it for about $6k off sticker ($36k). Only a few minor probs, the side mirrors had a weird glare and those were replaced (free warranty), few probs with actuators (free under ext warranty - doors wouldnt lock), a/c clutch relay switch replaced (125 P&L). Blower motor may need to be replaced any day (used heavily/daily). At 105k miles had water pump and timing belt replaced -preventative maintenance only. I put about 22k miles annually on this vehicle and love it. It always starts and goes. Have taken few trips to places from Bay Area to Canada (BC), San Diego, Yosemite, Vegas, Bakersfield, Arizona. Has hauled many things. Good vehicle. 17.4 avg mpg

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  Awsome SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By dfsalyers - October 26 - 10:00 am

  This truck is a great buy. We bought this car for my wife and she absolutely loves it. This car is also well built because she was rear ended last week and the 4Runner had minimal damage while the other truck was not so lucky. This car also gets some serous complemets.

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  If You Drive It, Youll Buy It! - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4RunFun - October 26 - 12:36 am

  Happy to be part of the 4Runner family. I researched just about every mid-size SUV out there and the 4Runner is the superior vehicle in just about every way. Smooth and powerful V6, great ride, sharp styling, quality materials, great fit and finish and Toyota reliability. Check out what people are getting for 97 4Runners and thatll tell you how well they hold their value. Take advantage of the cash rebate and get yourself into a 4Runner. Just make sure you get it with the Michlines as the Bridgestones and Dunlops do not get good reviews.

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  Traded in my lemon after just 1 year - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By G OFF - October 25 - 7:56 am

  I was in the market to buy my first new car and wanted something with an excellent track record. I got a lemon. In the 11 months I owned it, the dealership had it for nearly 6 weeks. Everything was covered under warranty except that so many problems is unacceptable. Major issues like the vehicle dynamic stability function kicking on and off making safe driving impossible and the exhaust leaking inside the cabin (never able to fix). And LOTS of little things broke from the sun roof staying open (big problem in Boston), to the rear roll up window, to the gas cap release lever severed (stuck out on a trip with no way to fill up and not nearly gas enough to get home), even the stereo broke.

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  love my 4runner! - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By havoc1649 - October 22 - 9:33 pm

  Complaints: noisy blower fan, a little slow to build up when throttled up, complicated NAV (like all others) Pros: Everything else is great! Strong motor, smooth in all facets. Love the rear pull out deck for the kids gear, very comfortable leather seats, awesome in poor winter weather, really just a great all around vehicle.