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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  2003 4runner is one comfortable truck! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ASK - October 17 - 2:00 am

  1 month anniversary of our 2003 4 Runner Ltd. No new car bugs. After owning Ford Explorer & Chevy Suburban - If you can get by with less cargo space, everything else about this vehicle feels like an upgrade. This is one nice comfortable truck!

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  2003 4runner is one comfortable truck! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ask - October 17 - 2:00 am

  1 month anniversary of our 2003 4 Runner Ltd. No new car bugs. After owning Ford Explorer & Chevy Suburban - If you can get by with less cargo space, everything else about this vehicle feels like an upgrade. This is one nice comfortable truck!

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  Most reliable vehicle Ive ever owned - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By 1Happy Camper - October 15 - 11:03 am

  I bought this car new in 2005 and I couldnt be happier. I travel a lot for work and put a great deal of miles on this truck. Other than replacing the tires at 90K miles (yep, you heard right, 90K miles) and a new set of front brakes, I have not had a single thing go wrong with this vehicle. If youre in the market for a good looking, dependable SUV then the 4Runner is a great deal.

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  Follow-up to 11/24/2007 review - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4RunnerKen - October 13 - 11:16 am

  After almost 6,000 miles, we are still impressed with our 4Runner. We recently towed our Lund 1750 Fisherman (2500 lbs with motor and trailer) 525 miles and averaged 17.5 mpg. Most of that was in 4th gear, using overdrive only when going on level or down hill roads. AND, that was into a headwind going to the cabin and a strong cross wind coming back. Pretty amazing. What impressed us the most was the stability of the truck and trailer rig. Not once did a semi-truck passing in the other direction on 2-lane roads shake the 4Runner.

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  Now i know why i always wanted one - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By eeephi110 - October 12 - 10:00 am

  have had my 4runner for a week and have loved every minute of it. i look for excuses to drive it. the only thing i worry about is someone denting it or hitting me, however i did get rear ended the second day. that high ground clearance protected my baby though. no damage to me, but a trailer hitch through the hood of the creep who wasnt paying attention. drives like a sports car. the V8 is incredible and i have still gotten 19-20 mpg city and highway. sound system rocks. my dog loves to surf the breeze when the sun roof is open and the rear window is down. i plan on keeping my 4runner for years.

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  A Great SUV!! - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By csholmes123 - October 11 - 2:53 am

  I purchased a 2008 Toyota 4Runner this past summer and overall, I am totally impressed. I am also surprised at the fuel economy and the features; everything is pretty much at your fingertips so that you can stay focus when driving. Toyota 4Runner, "I love what you do for me."

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  Excellent Daily Driver - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bears Fan - October 10 - 12:20 am

  With 310,000 miles on the 4Runner, it has not had one problem with reliability. I did only routine maintenance and changed all fluids and oils regularly. This car has gotten me from coast to coast in the US with no worries about reliability. Ride is very comfortable for long trips, and this car is amazing to drive in harsh snow conditions. I have not been stuck once.

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  Incredible SUV - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Labmover - October 7 - 7:36 am

  I looked around at suv’s and cars for the last several months, and I just purchased a 2010 Toyota 4Runner Limited and the truck is absolutely outstanding! The new body style has a modern look yet strong and masculine, a definite guys truck. The interior is superbly done, with has everything a discerning buying could possibly want. This truck was entirely built in Japan, and the fit and finish is precise and meticulous. The ride is smooth with plenty of engine power. I am overwhelming pleased with my purchase.

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  Great SUV 4WD for the $$$ - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Samp - October 6 - 10:00 am

  I bought this 4WD SR5 Used as a Certified vehicle with the original waranty. Best way to buy a car I think. Threre is a service notice for the weather striping around the doors and they take care of it for free. Other than that the car drives great. Lots of room comfortable ride for a truck and good stability on the road. The truck is built with good quality and is a great SUV for the money. If you want a cadillac ride in a SUV go to a Navigator but if you want all around great perfomance and quality this is the SUV of choice... No wonder why you see so many on the road.

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  Crossing The Country - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ralph - October 5 - 9:36 pm

  I have driven from New York to California during the summer of 2003, New York to Utah the summer of 2004 and New York to Arizona with a detour to Texas during the summer of 2005. The three trips were approximately 23,000 miles. The 4 Runner met every challenge through snow in the Rockies and 100 degree heat in Texas with power and class. The V8 had no peers! A beautiful truck inside and out!