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 1821 through 1830 of 2,243.00
  • Takes a Lickn - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is my 2nd 4Runner. I had an 88 200,000miles & traded for the 97, wanted 4 drs. It has a 2" lift with HD springs & shocks and a TRD cat-back which added a little more low end power. This is my daily driver and hard use off-roader. I tow 3,000- 5,000# on a regular basis and it pulls great. I have removed my front and rear sway bars for better travel off-road, the little extra lean on the streets is not alarming. I run this on trails, service roads, crawling & even use it as follow vehicle at high speeds for quad riders. The truck gets beat hard with bumps & jumps (8ft in the air) & keeps on tickn. No major probs. Looking to get another one w/V8 but will keep this one. Quality is 2nd to none.

  • Perfect SUV for your needs - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    After about three weeks and 1000 miles with this SUV, Im very impressed! Gas mileage has been in the lower 20s, impressive for an SUV. Interior and exterior fit and finish is excellent. It pulls a 3,500 lb. boat very well. Im 63" and leg room is adequate, as is head and shoulder room. The 4Runner steers and handles tightly, almost car like. So far, this is the great vehicle its been touted to be! It has all the features I wanted without some I didnt.

  • Had Enough Blazers! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Smooth ride,tight steering, lots of power(V8). Stereo could be better....but,you can`t have everything!

  • Impressed with quality and amenities - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I love my new 4Runner! I compared all mid-sized SUVs out there and the only one I liked better was the Lexus RX 400, which was hard to find used and too expensive brand new. I bought one with a V8 and still am not sure if that was a wise decision or not. Handles on the paved road awesome and even better off the road. I havent really tested it in serious offroad conditions yet but definitely plan to. I love the little extra amenities like the 115V plug-in, digital readouts for MPG and fuel distance calculations, and the rear audio remote and readout. I debated between the Limited and the Sport and then realized the only diff was leather seats and some options.

  • Toyota 4runner - Best SUV for 2003 - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Great SUV...Toyota does it again! Improved power, ride, handling, comfort and styling. Smooth, pwerful and resposive V-8 with silky smooth 5spd automatic transmission. Controls are great. Picked the Limited for full time 4wd, power and smoothness (alos didnt like SR5 or Sport gray platic body cladding).

  • Great SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This will be my second 4runner. Previously owned a 94 and i must say this one has been a great vehicle. IT has plenty of space on the inside as well as decent mpg at around 20 in the city! The 4runner also has plenty of power for towing which i due often. The 4wd also works well although I’m still not too fond of the push button 4wd but have had no problems out of it. I would definitely recommend this to anyone shopping for and SUV.

  • Great mid size SUV - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    If your needs are for mid size utility, not just an all wheel drive sedan with a hatchback, this is an excellent vehicle. It has the same motor as my Tundra did and tows almost as well. Handles the parking lots great and fit and finish are all Toyota

  • Wanna break your bank? - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    The Toyota may be reliable (except for the time I ran out of gas in po-dunk western Kansas while the guage showed half a tank still left), you will pay dearly for it. Toyota, in my opinion has grossly over-priced their vehicles. You will get twice as many luxury features from other makes for a lot less dough!

  • 4Runner - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is where Toyota has spent its budget for SUVs. What a great job theyve done. The transmission is silky smooth. Quiet. Nice!

  • ANSWER MY QUESTIONS!!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Great truck but need questions answered! First Toyota and am loving it - love all the features but have some questions to see if other users having same problems. 1. I get shocked when I get out of the car... every time - how do I lose the static electricity? 2. The lumbar feels like it gives when I accelerate, like the plastic or whatever has cracked on the seat? 3. Double decker - sort of cool but can I take it out? has been more of a pain than useful b/c when I put stuff on there and accelerate, it usually falls off. 4. Back window seems to shake a lot (unstable) when driving with it partially down. 5. WHen changing gears car jumps.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area