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:

• 

  Confirming what everyone is saying! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By brian - September 4 - 12:26 pm

  Well, Ive waited about 5,000 miles to write this. I love the truck! The looks of the Sport Ed. is awesome. Love the 6-spoke rims! Smooth, solid, quiet ride. This thing handles excellent for an SUV and the steering feel is so tight! Brakes are good, V6 is pretty quick. Gas mileage has been about 19-20 MPG, but my last trip with 4 snowboards on the rack got me ~16 mpg. Only driven in a few inches of snow, but it handled good. Cant wait to get rid of the Dunlops tho. Best vehicle buying decision EVER!

• 

  I love what you do for me! Moving forward - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner G-Black - September 4 - 8:43 am

  I have just had my 4Runner for under a week. I already love it. When I drive it I already feel the quality behind it. Maybe it has something to do with my current studies behind the legendary Toyota manufacturing process. I also like the fact that the cars parts are 95% Japanese. I feel like Im driving a luxury SUV, but then again I havent test driven the Lexus GX which costs almost twice as much! (Pretty much the same car). At any rate, I couldnt be more happy with my purchase. Too bad it seems like everyone else is buying a new 4Runner as well.

• 

  Bought the 5 yr 100 mile warranty - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By val - August 30 - 5:03 pm

  I like to keep my cars the life of the warranty or the years I buy whichever comes first. This car is a jewel and I love driving it. Compares well with my sisters Lexus SUV for performance. Wasnt cheap, I bought everything I could to enhance my enjoyment but Im using the frills and loving my ride and the perks. This is a car that will way outlast my warranty and the years ...

• 

  A solid SUV - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By ltd - August 30 - 10:00 am

  I had it for 14 months, no single problem, It quick pick up, easy parking,stable in the rainny day,confidence at steering wheel, almost like a sport car. Just love it very much.

• 

  My second 4Runner - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By a2992 - August 30 - 6:53 am

  Ever since I sold my 94 4Runner in 2006, Ive always had my eye on getting another. My only complaint about the 94 was that there was no V8 at the time, and the V6 was WAY underpowered. So when I was in the market for a new car, I purchased the V8 Limited 4WD, and Im happy. The new 4Runner is futuristic enough, while still maintaining the DNA of the original generations. The solid construction, "never-die" dependability, and fun driving attitude make it a joy to drive. Its as if Im back in the 94, but this time, with all the power Ive ever wanted with 270 HP, and 300+ ft/lbs of torque. Im raring to get this thing off road where it belongs.

• 

  1995 4runner - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jesse Zetterholm - August 27 - 6:03 pm

  I love the vehicle it could only use minor improvements. The negatives first, the cup holders are in the way of the air controls and at times can be very frustrating. I would of liked for Toyota to have given a V6 suv more power. It feels very weak under 2500 rpms. Now for the positive features. The paint has held up very well for a vehicle over 13 years old and still looks new. I average close to 18 mpg and have got up to 21 mpg on a tank of gas before. the handling and suspension are impressive for a SUV period. I think Toyota really out did themselves on this vehicle and its still impressive in todays highly competitive SUV and truck market!

• 

  Fun to drive - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By iRC aDiKz - August 27 - 5:53 am

  Really happy with my 2007, excellent handling, very smooth and quiet. Gas is not bad at all for a 4.0 truck.

• 

  Best SUV ever owned... - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By freddys555 - August 26 - 6:16 pm

  After 75,000 "absolutely zero" problem miles, I can confidently say this is the best SUV I have ever owned. The global statistics and data speaks for itself. There is no doubt that the 4Runner/Prado/Hilux/etc delivers what it promises. The build quality is solid. There are no rattles, squeaks regardless of driving conditions. The 4x4 capabilities is unlimited. It responds the way you want it to. The interior is dull but it serves its purpose just right. The Koito projector head/fog lights and rear LED perform well. I have never replaced a bulb since I took ownership in 2007. I can never go back to Ford, Chrysler, GM, etc because of quality. Toyota has delivered what it promised me...

• 

  Solid - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By pkb - August 25 - 1:30 am

  A feelling of superb no-nonsense reliable power to pull a big boat and to weather the worst storm.

• 

  2003 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner - August 24 - 10:06 pm

  Great SUV for anyone young and old. Great looking, great handling. Just need help on gas mileage.