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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  Tough Monkey - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By tom - October 15 - 12:53 am

  We bought our Toyota new in 1997. Except for a few relatively minor problems we have driven her through 10 Maine winters without a complaint. 152,000 miles and still going strong. She is starting to show her age a bit. Rear bumper is rusting, which I have noticed on a few others in this model year. I think the design of the rear bumper allows water to intrude and settle. We have had a problem with some locks and latches. And, the if I had to do it over Id swap the electric retracting antenna for a fixed. We replaced the first one and the second is now starting to stick. But none of these problems would prevent me from owning another 4runner. They will take you anywhere!

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  Great value for pre-owned car. - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jennifer Zackary - October 12 - 9:08 pm

  Like new.

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  A MUST HAVE!!!!! - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By greatdane - September 13 - 1:26 am

  I have enjoyed owning my 4runner immensely. Its a very dependable and long lasting rig. I have 168,598 miles on it w/ out a lick of problems, "knock on wood". Anyways I would recommend it to anyone.

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  nice bus - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By me-2 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Great looking - too bad doesnt have chrome bumper. Slighest bump scratched body keyed color plastic front bumper. The set up for window & door loct buttons very very poor. Hidden under outside arm rest and lack quality to be able to see them in dark. There is only 1 accessory plug right under your right forearm in center consol. There is a 2d one but its back in cargo area - I also bought a Tundra and it has 3 in consol area and in convenient areas. Finally when the tilt wheel is brought down it obscures the directional signal lite on the dash. With all these poor configurations I still love it.

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  Great SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner4Life - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Very solid well built SUV. The 4.0 engine is very quiet and smooth with plenty of power. Very nice cabin with lots of extras and well thought out.

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  4runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jamesjames - August 19 - 2:00 am

  Seems to be a good SUV, but its a bit on the ugly side. Toyota quality with a V8 for a decent price is what sells the vehicle. If it wasnt a Toyota then it would not be worth buying.

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  Oh What A Feeling - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dawn Kennedy - August 17 - 1:13 am

  I love my 4x4 Limited 4Runner. Its a V6 yes, but much more power than my minivan sienna had so Im happy enough. I have not been this much in love with a vehicle, ever. I still appreciate it and still love driving it after 6 months of ownership. The quality of this vehicle is very high, as well as the value retention. I still want to be driving this vehicle in 10 years and am sure it will still be going strong. The 4Runner V6 has great pickup, gets head-turning looks, and is just plain fun to drive. The Limited has the leather, heated seats, sun roof, dual air stations, the list goes on. My ONE complaint is that there are not enough cup holders in the front seat.

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  Stinkers - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By bic - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have a problem with exhaust fumes getting into the car under heavy excelleration or when towing. All windows up. Both the dealer and Toyota confirmed it and said it is the gas outside of California and the car is performing to its standards and they can not do anything. It smells like rotten eggs. Toyota corporate said too bad but it is my problem. Also dont expect to see the dash guages with sun glasses on.

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  GREAT - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By polaco - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Its aLexus with a Toyota badge!!!

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  Reliable and Rugged 4WD - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By kb - July 4 - 1:36 am

  A very reliable and rugged 4WD truck. Great for crawling over rocks, fording water, and punching through 3 snow-drifts. Not so much fun on the freeway. This 4runner is definitely still a truck. No mechanical or electrical problems with the vehicle at all. I average 18mpg highway/city. Not bad mpg for a truck of its capabilities. This truck is very fun to drive off the pavement, and is very stable over ruff roads. On the freeway the weak engine and top-heavy weight distribution make it a little scary.