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:

• 

  Good value overall - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Randy - July 23 - 9:20 am

  Great value, could have a softer ride. It rides like a truck. But overall a very good vehicle.

• 

  Good, but overpriced. - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By pmn - July 19 - 3:26 pm

  Ive had this for 5 years and overall it has been reliable, although it once failed to start at -15 degrees, died on the interstate for five minutes, and misc things have broken. Off road capability is excellent. MPG is poor considering size and modest power, ride is pretty rough, terrible in a cross wind, and overall comfort is below average. Not nearly enough enough power to comfortably tow what it claims. Paid a premium price due to reputation for reliability, and for the most part has not disappointed there. But resale today isnt all that great. For my actual cost out of pocket I could have driven a significantly nicer (and larger) vehicle the past 5 years.

• 

  Exceptional - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By TONY - July 17 - 9:50 pm

  What is there to say, the 4runner is the best. Number one in resale value in its class, great looks, super sporty, great engine and performance, super shiny paint, and of course great Toyota reliability. No trips to dealer for knucklehead repairs.

• 

  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 42 years - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By thedadlord - July 17 - 2:50 am

  I paid $26,000 for mine new in 1997. I have over 198,000 miles now. The ride is a little unsettled, its better with a full load. Handling and steering is 2nd to none. I relocated the oil filter to the inner fender well with a bypass kit. I installed a hood deflector. I also installed a makeshift stainless steel screen inside the grill to stop damage to the radiator from road debris and bugs. The only repair Ive needed are the head gasket went out under the extended warranty. Also the front brake line cracked from fatigue after a mounting bolt rusted thru. Michelin LTX M+S are the tires of choice for this vehicle. I still have the original shocks, exhaust system, alternator, starter.

• 

  Great Buy - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By kim - July 13 - 10:16 pm

  I was bugging my husband for a new TRUCK. We went to the dealership - looked at what they had in stock and was told that there was a shipment coming in the following day. He returned to the dealership and brought home my new toy - I LOVE IT!

• 

  Best all around 4wd SUV! 27mpg! - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By TK - July 13 - 8:20 am

  I have owned over 30 cars in the last 11 years-- many lux/sporters as well as 6 SUVs--suburban, 2 mits monteros, suzuki, 2 pilots and a Honda ridgeline too. I had always thought the 4runners were over priced--until I found a used 2008 Toyota certified one owner 45k mile sr5 in Denver for ~$22k. Very impressed with the ergonomic/practical design AND I actually get 22+ mpg in city and 27+mpg on highway!!---puts my Honda pilot and any other full sized SUVs to shame. None better! Now I know why they are so popular.

• 

  Truck based SUV - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jimbo from Texas - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I have had only the best experience with my 4Runner. The only negative thing I can think of is the windshield fluid spray back. Whenever I have to use large amounts of windshield fluid to clean off dead bugs or mud, the fluid flows back underneath the mirror and onto the drivers side window . This causes reduced visibility of the mirror.

• 

  fuel mileage is terrible, but hey its a truck - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By gadgetosis - July 11 - 12:53 pm

  I owned a tacoma 4wd standard cab and put 50k on it with not a problem one (save a sqeaky clutch pedal). The 4runner is great overall, but 15 mpg seems pretty weak to me. The trip computer doesnt tell the truth either. other than that, the tire pressure sensor, the auto a/c, and steering wheel controls. Its a great truck.

• 

  Disappointing Powertrain - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gary Abraham - July 8 - 8:30 pm

  I am very disappointed with my 4runner. At 3000 miles it developed a driveline vibration when it is driven between 50 and 70 mph. Toyota head office tech reps could not fix it. Between the dealer and head office I have been given the run around for 15 months. I hope they replace the truck, if not I will have sell it soon. Buyers beware...

• 

  Very versatile - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ATXIronHorse - July 8 - 9:33 am

  Excellent reliability and versatility. This car is a great daily commuter but can also haul and off-road with zero problems. No mechanical issues after 80,000 miles.