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:

• 

  Most Reliable Vehicle Ever - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dave Sisler - July 29 - 2:30 am

  This SUV has to be one of the most reliable vehicles in history. 90000 miles and literally have had to do no more than fill with gas, change oil, change belts, and get new tires. Minor probs with pop-up antenna. Unstable in poor weather conditions unless it is in 4WD. Simple to change to 4WD. FANTASTIC CAR!!!!!!!!!!

• 

  Love it! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chatfield - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I purchase this vehicle 4 years ago with 104,000 miles on it. I have done nothing to it but change the oil, it is now at 154,000. Best car I have ever owned.

• 

  Drive shaft problems - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By granny - July 27 - 6:26 am

  Bought new with 140,000 miles today. Early 2008 thought vibration was u- joints but had to have drive shaft replaced. 8/09 - it is just now doing the same thing. Checking to see if common complaint. Until then it has been very reliable and maintenance (major) free.

• 

  Wish I Had My Old 4runner Back - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runnerdriver - July 25 - 3:48 am

  Ive owned 4runners since 86. Bought 11 model this yr. & this is the 1st time Ive regretted it. This car is bigger and more awkward than my 02 4runner. It feels giant but the interior feels more cramped. The HVAC controls are not good. It gets really hot inside & with the fan on hi I still feel suffocating. What is most annoying is that with each 4runner Ive owned since 86, the gas mpg is now much worse. It is basically the same car (but with more comforts and bells and whistles each year), what are you doing wrong that the MPG is getting worse??? For one, quit making them a few inches bigger each year. If I wanted bigger Id buy a Sequoia. Now Im shopping for an Explorer

• 

  Love my 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By christine - July 24 - 8:46 am

  I bought my Toyota 4 Runner Sport Edition 4WD as an executive demo (guess I was in the right place at the right time) and I absolutely love it. I do a lot of cycling and both my mountain bike and road bike fit nicely in the back with the 60/40 split back seats. It handles extremely well; many of my friends cant believe how smooth it is on off ramps and turns. I love the head room; front and back seats and have received many compliments on the color (charcoal gray).

• 

  4-runner rocks - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jeff meredith - July 24 - 2:00 am

  this is simply an amazing vehicle.. have test drove and looked at all suvs, form hummers to escalades and this beats all. its performance is superb, the power to weight ratio is unmatchable, the four wheel drive capabilities are incredible. it is nothing short af amazing.

• 

  Great Vehicle - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ShaunTN - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 2001 SR5 before this and loved it. Ive had this one for 6 months and I do love it. The V8 was one of the best things they ever did. This thing will move. The 2003 seems wider and a little more roomier. I like the control panel as well. I was looking for something a little more fuel efficient, but Im glad I have the V8, Ill pay the extra in gas.

• 

  So in Love - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner Lover - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought mine in December 2002, so Ive had it almost a year. 16,000 miles later, Im still loving it! I was waiting for the unveiling of the new design and was not disappointed. I bought the LTD because I didnt like the gray plastic moldings. Im glad that I splurged for the LTD model. The comfort is unbeatable and the new styling won me over. This is my first Toyota and I have to say that the hype about quality and craftsmanship is indeed deserved! Im sold on Toyotas in the future.

• 

  I now have 2- 4Runners - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rick Ayotte - July 18 - 2:00 am

  This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned and I have owned all domestic makes + other imports. I now have 128,000 miles on this 98 4Runner and the only part I had to change was the water pump wich had a minor leak. I still have all the original parts on this truck, including the brakes and exaust. What a truck!! I still enjoy the ride and with this mileage, still no rattles. This is a quality vehicle that I strongly recomend. I just purchased a new 2003, , but we are keepin this 98 model in the family; both my wife and daughter love to drive it. They both feel safe in it and love the clear view of the road ahead.

• 

  00 4 runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By ikw - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Strong reliable truck. It is built to last.