Toyota 4Runner Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.61/5 Average
2,243 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 1741 through 1750 of 2,243.00
  • I Love My "Yota" - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This vehicle is easy to handle on the road. The ride it prevides is quiet and smooth. All controls are easily accessible. Seats are confortable. The interior is quality crafted

  • The Class of the Class - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I was the third owner of this well- maintained 4runner. As soon as I brought it home, my neighbors immediately came over and complimented it. This was just the start. Complete strangers would rave over it at gas stations. After driving a few bombs the last few years, this was quite a change. This was a seven year old vehicle! It had the coldest air conditioning . Unreal.. Rock-solid build. Everything worked as new and the paint was still in great shape. Even my inlaws said I made a good choice! It was slightly underpowered in the mountains and fuel economy was not great. The positives definately outweigh the negatives on this vehicle

  • Good Buy - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I decided to buy the Infinity FX 35 but then test drove the Toyota 4 Runner Limited. I was floored, the performace was very close to the Fx35 and it was a lot cheaper. Add to it the Toyota quality and you have a bombshell. Here is the deal if you can afford it buy the X5 if not then the 4 Runner is your best option. Also get the limited only if you are looking for leather seats desprately, if not then then the SR5 is a strong option.

  • Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Definitely the best car I have ever owned. Every summer we drive to New York and this SUV has made the trip 6 times with absolutely no problems. The only money we have put into this vehicle is for the oil, and windshield wipers, but it stops there. The vehicle has 160,000 miles and we bought it in 07 with 20,000. Another incredible thing about this SUV is this past month a friends truck weighing in at about 6500 lbs died and got stuck in sand, and this 4Runner pulled it out with absolutely no problem. Overall, the best vehicle to have come our way.

  • Excellent, Solid, Reliable 4Runner - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I bought the 4Runner in 1999, when it was 3 years old with 53k on it. Now it has 191k miles and I am very impressed with this truck. It drives as well as the day I bought it. During the 8 years Ive owned it, it had no problems whatsoever! This car did not see the dealership unless I took it there for regular maintenance. Its extremely solid and reliable, starts even in the very cold Chicago winters (I keep it outside) and it goes everywhere thanks to a very potent 4x4 system. The paint is glossy even now, after all these years. There is no rust. I cannot believe how strong this car is and I think it will last me another 100K miles.

  • It is a cheap truck with a back seat. - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Last car was a $55g 09 BMW 335i xdrive w/ sport - ref this vehicle for my pov. It was the ultimate, if you want a fast capable vehicle. Now lets talk about a real suv. I wanted a fun and radical departure from a 335 - I got it! The 4runner is not fast and is NOT a luxury car - slow down and enjoy life. The interior, ride, and quality is fine for a 45g truck based suv. If you want a fancier version - shell out the bones for a Lexus GX. The seats are fine for a truck, the body is not meant to reduce drag so it whines at times, and the brakes make a sound. It is a great vehicle in a quirky niche that is overall big fun to drive for a relatively small payment. Fun ride.

  • 2003 4Runner V8 - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    So far so good. Ive had my Runner now for 7 weeks and have driven over 3,500 kms since I bought it (2,200 miles). Runs like a charm. Decent fuel economy considering its a V8 - in fact its better on gas than my previous 1999 V6 Runner. Great ride, great performance, great handling and an excellent array of safety features made this new Runner a sure winner over the competition. I shopped around and considered domestics and other foreign brands, and finally settled for another 4Runner. My insurance premiums actually came down over $200 per year versus my 1999 Runner. Toyota has done it again!

  • Devil in the Details - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Overall, this is a very impressive vehicle. However, I have had a recurrent front suspension squeak (traced to the body mount) that is still not fixed after 4 visits to the dealer, and I am now seeking to have the vehicle replaced with a new one with 3200 miles on the clock. I have also been bothered by a rattle in the headliner by the sunglass holder. I expected better attention to the small details by Toyota, but hopefully they will remedy the situation. I love the vehicle otherwise, Id just like to have a new one thats without the squeaks and rattles.

  • Why I Buy Toyota - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is my 3rd Toyota, following a 2WD pickup and a 98 Tacoma. The great thing with Toyotas is that you get exactly what you expect. They dont have as much power as other brands and theyre not as big on creating a luxury interior, but thats not what I look for in a depreciating asset. Like my other Toyotas, routine maintenance is all I ever have to do and that saves me thousands of $s over friends with other brand vehicles. The only expenses after 76,000 miles are a set of tires, pair of rotors, some oil, and some windshield wipers. It still even has the original brake pads. The vehicle is superbly engineered, handles off- road situations very well, and is great in snow and rain.

  • Great Vehicle SR5 V6 Atmtc 4WD - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Bought new, now have 95k, still runs and looks great. Just had timing belt and 90k service done. Service Forerunners and they may go forever. I gave this one to my college bound daughter but want it back when she returns. I want to see if it will go 1,000,000 miles. I was so happy with this one I bought a 2005 but the new ones dont look as good.

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