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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  Head gasket problems - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By sam - May 29 - 1:43 pm

  I bought my 4runner with about 56,000 miles on it.at 75,000 mile it blew a head gasket. at 150,000 miles it has blown a head gasket again. It was recalled for head gasket problems about 5 years ago.I am trying to get Toyota to fix it again.If there was a recall the first time then ,was it something they could fix or was it something they just patched up.I have had just one car in my life time that blew a head gasket once but this truck has don it 2 times. I am wondering if this problem is just something that is going to stay with this truck or what ?

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  Great, great vehicle - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By CDH - May 28 - 3:36 am

  I bought my 4Runner w/ 54k miles on it and have out almost 50k more on it in 3 years. Excepting regular fluid changes and the like, Ive only had to have it repaired once: I had to replace the AC compressor 2 1/2 years after I bought it. Highly reliable, enjoyable to drive, and very useful when I remodelled my home. Gas mileage leaves something to be desired. Highly recommened unless you have a long commute.

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  Jumping for Toyota - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Girl Gone Bad - May 26 - 9:50 pm

  After only having my 4Runner for 6 months I can say it is a fun SUV to drive, it handles like a car, looks great, runs great and is quiet except for a slight vibration effect or noise when its windy, it seems like wind blowing or buffeting against something. That comes and goes and is not annoying, just a little disconcerting at first. The turning ratio is easy and good, Ive taken it off road (4x2) and it was fun, fun, fun.

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  Military approved (unofficial) - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By NHSkier - May 26 - 10:00 am

  As a member of the military I needed a vehicle that could haul a lot of stuff and ride comfortably for long durations without having to stop every 200 miles for a fill up. Although I think the cargo space could be increased a bit in the 4Runner, using a roof bag is always an option. The lack of cargo space is more than made up for by the build quality, performance, and peace of mind that the 4Runner gives me. Its very capable on the highway and can go anywhere on military bases that I need to go. The headlights are by far the best that Ive had on any vehicle Ive driven. Selectable 4WD is also a big plus to save gas on the highway.

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  The Best There Is - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mollystuartalexrob - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder for this vehicle. The dealership gave me the keys to the SR5 4WD and allowed me to go for a test drive on my own. The minute I started driving, I knew this was the vehicle for me. It is a far superior product than the Nissan, and I have driven other makes as well. Fords Explorer does not even compare. The styling is big and bold. The performance is excellent, the gas mileage is decent (considering its power), and it is safe and reliable. I would highly recommend this vehicle to anyone. It is just such a great vehicle.

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  4Runners Rule - 197K and Going - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By ToyFan1 - May 25 - 9:16 pm

  I purchased this vehicle new and it has been the most reliable vehicle I have owned. Ive had other brands Hondas, Chevys, Ford, GMC.... and nothing compares to Toyota quality and reliability (not even my Honda Accord). The only maintenance has been oil changes, tires, timing belt per owners manual and brakes (probably weakest feature - upgraded to Tundra front discs last year). I would buy another 4Runner, but this one still has years of reliable service left.

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  Bulletproof... - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By keokisan - May 24 - 8:53 am

  Great overall vehicle! 4x4 in snow EXCELLENT! Rides better than C-Class Benz. Ended up selling Benz was driving my SR5 90% of the time. Took a road trip from Seattle to Santa Monica and it drove like a DREAM. I have owned many, many vehicles. My advise: "GET YOUR HANDS ON A TOYOTA"! My 2005 looks brand new, gas, oil and scheduled maint. is all I do. It NEVER FAILED, EVER... Just gas and oil.

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  Good All Around Vehicle - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By patagoniaguy2 - May 23 - 11:08 pm

  I purchased my 2004 Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition 8 months ago and it had 159,000 miles, it now has 170,000. Overall it has been a great vehicle. The ride is very smooth and the 4 wheel drive has been great. Since I purchased it I have had to have somethings fixed. The exhaust manifolds on the 2003-2009 4Runners have an issue with leaking. I had them replaced with an aftermarket part, and that so far has resolved that issue. I noticed the radiator leaking on the left hand side, and had that replaced. I will have to have the rearend rebuilt since I am starting to hear a whining noise.

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  Major Exhuast & Emission Problem - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Major Exhaust prob.. - May 23 - 5:33 pm

  I have already taken my 08 Toy. 4Runner 5 times to 3 different Toyota dealerships for service... theyve changed my catalytic converter and I still have a problem with my exhaust and emission system of this car. When I drive it in the highway in the speeds of 60 MPH and faster I get a real STRONG and HEAVY sulfuric and ammonia scent entering inside of the vehicle which gives me a headache and bothers my newborn baby. I basically cannot drive this automobile with my windows down!!! Toyota service is the worst that Ive ever seen!!!

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  Totally would do again! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jenn L - May 22 - 7:16 am

  This is my first 4Runner and first SUV. After 6 months of researching many consumer websites about this SUV, I am totally satified with my purchase. Its fun to drive and more comfortable than most SUVs its size. The standard V6 engine is more than adequate for speed and power when you need it. Of course the Toyota 4Runners are quite "pricey", however, it is true what they say: "You get what you pay for!" I would totally do it all over again! :)