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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  Best SUV Ever Built by Toyota - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By White - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Sold my Jeep Grand Cherokee (too mnay problems since I bought, may just unlucky or what). I went around dealers and looking for a new SUV. Finally looking at the new 4Runner. Wow...What a big improvement and the greatest SUV ever. Bought it on the same day. My Thanksgiving gift. Now I can drive distance.

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  3rd Gen 4Runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By John - August 13 - 11:43 pm

  IMHO... 4Runners are the best mid sized SUV on the road. My 3rd generation 4Runner has noticably more power and creature comforts. The only prob Ive noticed (hence my build quality descrepancy)is the door seals. Drivers and rear passenger molding does not fit right. Local dealer just shrugs and says I can get a new set of molding for more than Im willing to pay. Oh well... great truck.. just wish Id held out for 4X4.

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  A Must Drive - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By gb - August 11 - 2:00 am

  Purchased 03 4 runner limited, 4x4, V8 and Wow! I knew it was nice during the test drive but the more I drive it the better I like it. This vehicle is extremely well built and everything about it was well thought out by Toyota. The V8 power with the new 5 speed auto trans. is very smooth and it feels like an expensive, high end luxary car. The suspension is firm yet comfortable. If you think this 4 runner is anything like the old one, think again. If your thinking of buying an new car or SUV, this is a MUST drive! I love it.

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  I love my 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By KHoerner - August 6 - 10:00 am

  My husband gave me a 50K allowance on a new car. I saw the 32K Sport Edition V8 4Runner, took a test drive ... and fell in love. I have driven it from TX to CA twice, all round TX and in the LA traffic - this car is a joy to own, fun to drive, has tons of pep but is very safe and reliable since I am starting a new family. It has a fun classy exterior, comfortable interior - and it is so so very quiet!

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  130,000 miles and still going! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By t b - August 5 - 9:12 am

  Its a Toyota, that means longevity. You dont get lots of bells and whistles with this model but reliability all day long.

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  Blown Head Gasket! Not a happy camper! - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By rmshively - August 5 - 1:24 am

  Bought our very first 1995 4Runner v6 manual. I had always wanted one but had NO IDEA about the head gasket problems. I had a feeling not to buy it but I didnt and now I wish I hadnt. I mean I love this car but I wish it had more horse power, and with 150 hp its not nearly powerfull enough for a v6. Its extremely slow going up hills and it sucks down the gas at incredible rates. I really dont think this thing could pull anything and get up a hill properly. So last week it didnt pass smog and to our horror it was a blown head gasket. We bought it at 174,000 miles and its at 209,900 right now. Going to get another better, more powerful vehicle. The engine is shot now. Crappy engine!!

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  2006 Sport V6 4WD - Love this suv ! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runnerpa - August 3 - 4:03 pm

  I traded in my new Subaru v6 due to the fact that I wanted better pulling power and room. This SUV is terrific, the only thing I wish I would have waited for was finding a non limited with the JBL system! Standard one stinks! But now have in dash dvd nav with custom sub built in rear and all new speakers with full ipod integration. But JBL would have been a lot nicer. 22,000 miles now, and no issues with this vehicle, it is a true beast in snow and the power of this thing makes you feel like your driving a sports car! Love it!

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  Love my 4Runner, BUT - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By MR. Rob - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The new designed 4runner is amazing on the outside, but does have some flaws on the inside. I have the Limited 2WD with the V8 engine and get an average of 19 mpgs mostly in highway driving. The engine is quiet and powerful. The car is gorgeous from the front, but the rear is a bit less macho than the past models. The interior has some noticible flaws: 1) The cup holders are terrible 2) The seat belts are bad (they fall into the cushion and are hard to find. 3) No memory seats available. 4) Cannot get a CD changer with the navigation system. 5) No 3rd seat option.

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  My first SUV ever! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ghostrider - July 30 - 10:00 am

  I literally have only had this truck for 24 hrs, but had to comment. I never owned an suv before but always thought about it. I am happy with this one. It feels comfortable to me(5ft 1 in) and I feel like I sit high in it! It is classy yet also fun. I have driven most of the competitors and hands down, the 4runner has everything a person would need in an suv.

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  Toy 4Runner sr5 4wd built to last - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jen k - July 30 - 1:28 am