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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  Dont waste your money... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dissapointed - April 2 - 2:40 pm

  This was my first and will be my last Toyota. Toyotas 4 Runners are not the high quality advertised. My past 6 Jeeps and 3 Buicks were all better. Worst, for a vehicle that is advertised to perform well in adverse weather, beware. Its rear doors freeze to the wheel wells after running through even the slightest mud and allowing the vehicle to sit overnight in below freezing temporatures. Bad design. Despite numerous contacts with Toyota, they refuse to even acknowledge the problem or do anything about what could be a serious safety defect, one that would prevent emerency egrees. "Oh, what a feeling..."

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  86,000 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Shawn G - April 2 - 10:43 am

  I just bought my Toyota 4runner two days ago. I was in an auto accident and my 2004 Jeep grand Cherokee was totaled. I was a little bummed at first but that went away fast after I bought this vehicle. I was a little worried about buying a vehicle with 86,000 miles used but am I glad I did. This 4runner is smoother and tighter then any vehicle I ever drove even with high miles. I love the ride and the comfort of the 4runner. It feels like you found a SUV thats worth the extra money. I can honestly say unless I have a lot of problems with this SUV, Toyota has made me a life member in just two days. They are head and shoulders above the rest. I believe I will have many more miles left.

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  98 4Runner SR5 4WD - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By lindeman23 - March 31 - 10:00 am

  I bought the car thinking that I would get around better gas millage than my V8 Grand Cherokee and be able to pull a trailer similarly, but not even close. Im very dissappointed in the power. A downshift is the responce to even the smallest hill empty. I pull 2 Sea Doos (2200 lbs) and it struggles. Have replace both O2 sensors (arent cheap) and the battery. But it is a toyota and I now that it will last forever, I just wish it has a smoother ride and more power.

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  Better Than Expected - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ben - March 28 - 6:30 am

  It was a toss up between ML 350 and the 4Runner. The MB has very poor reliability but the Toyota has no luxury options such as GPS. Sat on the fence for months until I came across a nearly new dealer demo I couldnt pass up. Very happy with it so far. Its like choosing between the hot, high maintenance person or the plain all around good person. One is much easier to live with.

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  Excellent Truck - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tim Henriques - March 28 - 3:36 am

  I love this truck. Have had it for 2+ years, bought at 50K miles and now have 80 and not a problem. Handles all weather, lots of room, actually is quick from 0-25 mph due to torque, very comfortable, good visibility, great reliability.

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  4runners are the best suvs ever - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By T - March 28 - 2:00 am

  This was my first car and my parents liked it so much that they wouldnt let me drive because they wanted too. I drove mine really hard when I first got it and it kept working fine. Its the best looking suv and Ive put a lot of time and money into making it something very unique and special

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  4runners are the best suvs ever - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By t - March 28 - 2:00 am

  This was my first car and my parents liked it so much that they wouldnt let me drive because they wanted too. I drove mine really hard when I first got it and it kept working fine. Its the best looking suv and Ive put a lot of time and money into making it something very unique and special

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  4Runners Are Worth Every Penny - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Muss287 - March 28 - 2:00 am

  No problems whatsoever; this is my 2nd 4Runner (1st was a 95); I chose this one based on it reliability (of course), increased interior & engine sizes & increased safety rating. After comparing all other SUVs in this class, the 4Runner exceeded the rest. While the HP is less than American models, the 4Runner more than makes up for it with its reliability, comfort & safety ratings. The highest HP wasnt a priority for me.

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  Great Vehicle! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By stevec - March 28 - 2:00 am

  What can I say? They hit the nail on the head. I Bought it and took it on a 3000 mile trip. The seats wear on you after a few hours, but it is so smooth and accomodating you have nothing else to complain about. I have never driven a vehicle this refined. Toyota has taken the SUV to a new level. It will be the benchmark.

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  What I think - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By tj - March 28 - 2:00 am

  Its been one of the few new vehicals I have ever owned that didnt have at least one defect. If I could change anything it would be the Electronic Throttle control. I dont care for it. doesnt give a true feel of the power when under a load.