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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  Why would you ever buy a domestic SUV? - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ZipperHead - September 19 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is great! Japanese engineering with American wants and needs built into it. Large enough to handle the average American family, yet it has the quality and reliability of an import. My 4Runner looks great and runs even better.

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  TestOfTheNew4Runner-IMPRESSED! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JMErbrick1980 - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Went down yesterday to look at the new 4Runner. A BIG improvement over the third generation. Pros: new V8 is quite peppy in 2WD form, seats are extremely comfortable, transmission shits smoothly, respectable fuel economy, extremely smooth ride, peace of mind that it will last. Cons: Wheres that 3rd row seat??? Not much space for cargo, a little noisy when sunroof is open, radio/climate ctrl. illumination not very bright at night; although instrument lights are bright. Looks like a winner to me.

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  Pretty good - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By jen - September 16 - 3:03 am

  Overall a good truck, better on gas than most SUVs. Downfalls are it floats on the highway, a lot of blind spots, especially the 3rd window and the wide panel between the 2nd and 3rd. The roof is very low or the seats are high, if you have a kid in car seat, expect to hit there head a few times. The trunk is so heavy and they need to add extra assistance to close it, not at the end when you actually get it down. Id love to see a dual sunroof.

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  4mazing - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Lingenfelter - September 11 - 10:20 pm

  Bought a 03 4runner SR5 in 2009. It had 74,000 miles on the V6. When I first got the car I was getting about 18.3 mpg which I wasnt impressed with since my dad was getting almost the same in his sequoia. Then I put a K&N filter on it. Last fill up I got 21 mpg mostly city with a little bit of highway. Awesome vehicle besides the sulfur smell that I get sometimes when stepping on the gas.

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  Loving my 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By FL_4Runner_Fan - September 11 - 12:23 am

  Just recently purchased a SR5 V8 4Runner. You get a lot of features for the money with this truck. Ride and handling are excellent, acceleration and braking are very good. Transmission is silky smooth. The sound level in the cabin is very quiet, with virtually no road noise.

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  Super Charged - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By boxingjoey - September 10 - 2:00 am

  Everything’s been great except for the weather stripping on the inside door frame, however the dealer corrected the problem on all four doors. There wasnt enough sealant. Please note that dealer had added the extended warranty, credit life and gap insurance without my consent. They also had me at 7.75% and I have great credit. Took the rebate and went thru my credit union for 4.5%

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  Best Vehicle Ive Ever Owned - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By generalpatton - September 9 - 5:43 am

  I just passed my 3 year anniversary with my 2006 4Runner Sport and the build quality on this vehicle continues to amaze me. (knock on wood) To date Ive not had a single repair item, the only service work Ive had done are oil changes and regularly scheduled maintenance. Totally awesome even by Toyota standards! For a mid-size SUV the 4Runner is as good as it gets with a strong V6 motor, adequate mileage, great styling and comfort and the awesome reliability that I previously mentioned. For the first time in a long time Im 3 years into a vehicle and Im not thinking about unloading it for the next bright shiny thing that catches my attention. Its a beautiful thing :) !!

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  Great SUV - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Michelle - September 7 - 9:53 pm

  Love this SUV! Bought new. Im still driving 8 yrs later and 120K miles. Only problem was the tail light bulb seems to go every other year which got me a ticket :( Mechanically very sound, well built, still runs like the day I purchased. Ive replaced the water pump/timing belt only due to miles. I get 17-19 mpg in city and 23+ on open highway. I do agree with the others though that the ride can be a bit bumpy, slightly larger tires seems help with that a bit. Cost to own very good at 25K new in 2002, retail today in mint condition is $8-9K. Not bad at all! Debating whether to trade in only due to mileage and mpg.

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  I like the 4Runner - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By New VDP - September 7 - 4:10 am

  My 4Runner has been a great and reliable car. The RWD has been sufficient to navigate construction sites and occasional soft dirt without a problem. The ride is more comfortable than 90% of the cars that I have ridden in lately. The visibility of the displays and access to switches and buttons is superior. The V-6 is a strong and nimble performer, the car is fast for its segment. I have had only two problems: 1) electrical problems with locks wouldnt allow driver to unlock or lock the rear right door. 2) A/C switch burned out for some reason.

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  2005 4 Runner V6 SR5 - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sam Collie - September 4 - 4:50 pm

  I drive this SUV in 3 western states covering my sales territory. Its good balance of comfort, 4 wheel drive option, and mid-sized capability. No real complaints. Im not in love with the body style but...