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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  Love Galactic Gray - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By rush - May 16 - 9:40 am

  After looking at every SUV out there we decided on the 4Runner mainly because of Toyotas reliability. The back window is great if you have dogs! We love everything about the car. There is one problem that we have found, when we first got the vehicle there was a constant rotten egg smell, it since has gone away for the most part but is still there occasionally. We have tried different grades of gas and nothing seems to help.

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  Toyota 4_Runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By RJ Rose - May 11 - 10:00 am

  First 10 months with 2002 4-Runner have been exceptional. Fuel mileage on long trips averages at 20.5 mpg travelling at 70-75 mph (where speed limits and conditions permit). Reliability has been perfect in the first 10,000 miles.

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  Overall: glad I purchased my 4runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By NeeNee - May 9 - 9:53 pm

  My hubby surprised me with my 4 runner as a grad present and I have been happy with a few exceptions. (I wish he had gotten one with a sunroof.) Please see below for the things I like, dont like and problems that Ive had with my Toyota. P.S. Invest in some Husky mats made for your 4runner at time of purchase & your carpet will look like new forever! I wish I had got mine when I purchased instead of the factory mats. Which I might add werent included in my purchase. I had to buy in addition to the purchase of the car!

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  Bastard child - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner5thGen - May 9 - 4:03 am

  Do you know what you get when you cross the FJ Cruiser and the 4th generation 4Runner? The 5th generation 4Runner. I affectionately call it the "bastard child" regarding its new look. A combination of each. I understand Toyota is discontinuing the FJ and I believe they intentionally designed the new 4Runner to reflect both looks to appeal to both buyers. I just traded my 2004 Sport V8 AWD for this new guy and yes it has a few shortcomings in comparison but I hope I love it in the long run as I have my 04.

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  Love the new style - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jmgager - May 8 - 10:00 am

  Bought this 4Runner used with 10K on it. It is a 2003 but has the color matched fenders and body, Looks awesome. the V8 engine has tons of power and the ride is smoother then ever. I previously had a 1999 4Runner Lmtd (That I loved) and this new one puts that one to shame. Toyota has really taken a step up with this new model.

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  Outstanding Buy - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sacheen - May 3 - 4:03 pm

  I bought a 4runner and I could not have made a better decision. It is fun to drive, with a rugged truckish looks and okay fuel econ. Interior looks great and handling is outstanding. I looked at most mid size SUVs in the market and must say 4runner was way better than most in terms of combined value.. For those looking for a mid size SUV, if youre not overly concerned about fuel econ, then 4runner is the one for you..

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  I give this 10 stars on a 5-star scale - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ebara - May 1 - 1:09 am

  Purchased our awesome 4Runner in Dec 2012 w/ 100K. Now it has 125K & hasnt failed us...nor will it. Traded a Cadillac with 70K for it because Caddy was having major mechanical problems. Just took a 4000-mile trip to the mountains with the 4Runner, and it held strong, even with over 100K miles! Toyota has quality that no automaker can surpass. Dont be afraid to buy a Toyota w/ over 100K, as it can easily get to 200K or 300K w/ no problems, as long as you keep up on scheduled maintenance. We fight over who gets to take the 4Runner, & our other car has 100K less miles on it. A 4Runner will outlast any USA-engineered car you would ever buy. A Toyota w/ 100K is like a USA car with 0 miles.

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  Great SUV for your Dollar - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bernard Hartigan - April 30 - 1:03 pm

  I get much better MPG than the window sticker states. I average 25 mpg highway which I think is great considering my Lexus ES gets 29 MPG highway.

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  love it - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By snoop - April 30 - 8:43 am

  Love this car. Cant tell it is 4 years old. I did buy the supercharger and i have never regretted it. The power and torque make an amazing difference. It is also stick shift which makes it even more responsive. The steering and suspension is still tight. Off roading in the sand, dirt snow, it has no problems. Great truck

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  The Perfect SUV - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike Rathburn - April 30 - 2:00 am

  Every time I go to check out the latest and greatest in SUVs, I always come back to my 4Runner and resell myself. This is the mold for which all SUVs should be made from. Absolutely perfect all around. Plenty of power for its mid-size, loads of comfort features, and it simply doesnt break down. Over 140,000 miles on it already, and confident itll go another 140,000.