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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  3 years and no regrets - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By D-Dub - October 7 - 9:03 pm

  Going on three years and 35000 miles with my 4Runner and still love it. Im 62 and fit easily even with the sunroof. Ride is very smooth and quiet. (Smoother and quieter than our 06 TL.) Easy to see all around, mirrors are big, brakes work well, feels very safe. I feel like I can drive over or through anything even though I rarely go off road anymore. The only problems Ive had were a couple interior rattles but the dealer took care of them. Sure the gas mileage is bad (average 16.3 with my lead foot in mostly city driving) but I knew that going in so cant complain. Highly recommend this vehicle.

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  4Runner Rocks - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By avs-man - October 7 - 1:36 pm

  I purchased this vehicle new in 2001 and it has never given me any reason to get rid of it. It is tough, rugged, reliable, dependable and good looking. It does not go off road very much but I have full confidence in it when I do. The horsepower on this engine started lagging at 45K at which time I decided to have the TRD Supercharger installed and that made all the difference in the world. Even though the gas mileage stayed the same, I get more bang for my buck and I fly across the Colorado passes! All the features from the driving lights to running boards to rear wiper are convenient. Interior is well designed and ergo-friendly. Handles well too.

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  not much impressed - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By B4ernrd - October 7 - 10:00 am

  Good but not excellent enough. Good in the back road but scary in the freeway as if its going on a spin and jitters inside. Roll over is imminent. Not so Good. Engine is but not the whole set up, its not too good for safe ride. GAS CONSUMPTION is very greedy. Not so good.

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  Love it - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By puppylover - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I just love it so much.

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  1998 4Runner Limited - Very Reliable - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4RunnerLimited - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I purchased a 98 4Runner Limited with 87,000 miles on it and was not at all concerned with the mileage because of Toyotas legendary reliability. At 90,000, I had the timing belt, spark plugs, etc. (the 90k service job) replaced and have had an excellent suv thus far. Knock on wood...I have not have any problems whatsoever with the suv. I have put about 16k miles on it including taking a 3,500 mile trip this past summer and experienced smooth sailing through the mountains, desert, etc.

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  4Runner fan - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By sands - October 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned 2 4runners; a 98 and an 04. The 04 is really different from the 98. IT is VERY quiet for an SUV, has lots of neat gizmos, is very reliable and just downright looks cool. You cant go wrong with a 4Runner. It has it all; style and substance.

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  Reliable and comfortable - 2016 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mustafa Bukhari - September 29 - 4:50 pm

  I had my 4Runner for one year and we absolutely love the ride. This SUV is exceptionally manufactured by Japanese engineers that understand quality and durability. It rides very quietly and powerfully. The navigation and is great. Very reliable and tough.

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  2014 4 Runner - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By scotta72 - September 25 - 5:26 pm

  This 4 Runner is fun to drive. With all the options and what I got for the money was a better deal in my mind than I could have gotten for other SUVs on the market. I looked at purchasing an older model with similar options, but found that the value of the used ones were very close to the price I paid for a brand new one, that I like better anyhow. The instrument cluster looks much better than the older ones and is lit with blue LEDs. The seats are not quite as comfortable as other SUVs I tried, but they do the job. The offroad and snow performance even with highway style tires is where this vehicle shines. This is a nice SUV, I am happy with my purchase.

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  Tail Gate - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By pshartrand - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Its not the fastest vehicle youll ever drive but it may well be one of the best. Im ready to turn 100,000 and it still drives like a new vehicle. Its done alot of hauling and still has the original shocks and suspension. I had a problem with the air conditioner at 80,000 but the extended warranty took care of it 100%. Other than oil changes at 5,000, belt replacements, brakes, and one tune-up, this vehicle has cost me nothing.

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  Oh! What a feeling - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By fatherdoug - September 21 - 1:36 am

  After much consternation and discussion, we decided to go to a rental/sale lot and look at vehicles. Afte looking at several models and manufacturers, we decided on the Toyota 4Runner. It has been more than we expected. The V-6 engine has more than enough power (it will definitely do 110 mph). The interior is well-appointed and comfortable. And the headlights, oh the headlights. I have trouble seeing at night, but not with the toyota projector beams. Even with only 5000 miles, the only drawback is the gas mileage. But even with all the power the V-6 has, the gas mileage isnt bad compared to other vehicles with bigger engines and less power.