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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  never thought id have another SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By pharmhand - May 22 - 2:00 am

  i needed a winter car, something with AWD or FT4WD. i had a very bad experience with reliability of an audi and volvo (which i was replacing), so those were out. subarus were too small inside. i drove the 4runner after testing a honda pilot and acura mdx. i was impressed by the solidity of build, acceleration (its better than edmunds lets on) and the highway ride.

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  I love this suv - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ld2993 - May 20 - 10:00 am

  We taste drove another suv brand and it did not compare to the Toyota 4Runner. It is so comfortable. My husband loves the way he sits in it and hes truck guy. We are so happy we got it.

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  1999 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4x4 - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Logans99runnerltd - May 17 - 4:30 pm

  Excellent SUV, drives great handles great for a large SUV, The interior is great and the seats are super comfy. Great interior space and exterior design.

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  Narrow Depth of Driver and Passenger Seats - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By dborlando1 - May 11 - 6:53 pm

  I love everything about the 2011 4Runner, except the narrow depth of the driver and passenger seats. The new Jeep Cherokee, Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango all have generous seat depths. To me, this is important because I tend to take long road trips for outdoor excursions (camping, fishing and windsurfing).

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  Great Choice - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nevster - May 10 - 9:16 am

  I was on my way to buy an Acura RDX, when I drove by the Toyota dealership and remembered the 4Runner. I was love at first glance! Fabulous vehicle, couldnt be happier.

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  Pretty Sweet - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By PRF - May 10 - 6:13 am

  Dring the 4Runner is night and day from my last SUV, a Mitsubishi Montero Sport Limited. It handles well and is a pretty quite drive. It does not have much body roll, like many SUVs and trucks out there. I highly recommend the V8.

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  2007 Toyota 4Runner Limited - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By MR. CLEAN - May 7 - 10:40 am

  Had this suv for a week now, tows a 3000 lb trailer very easily. Went with the v-8 for this purpose. Ride is good for this type of SUV. Cant wait to drive it in the snow! Wife likes the dual climate control. Auto-dim rearview mirror is nice.

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  Get A Ford! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By mtbkr44 - May 6 - 10:00 am

  I have had this vehicle 4 months, one of which has been in the shop. The sunroof quit working and so did the dealership. I finally got the car back and the paint is peeling off of the front! 40K for this??? I should have bought a Hyundai!!

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  2008 Urban Runner 4WD V6 - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By topneuro - May 3 - 3:03 pm

  Navigation big disappointment, Eclipse AVN 2210p with lousy radio, CD and nav. The iPod connector is behind the unit, special cable and rip apart the dash to set it up. The iPod connector should be readily accessible in front of the unit like the USB port for other media storage devices. The interior should be leather, either gray or black but not with with suede. For trouble shooting neither Toyota, Eclipse, nor TomTom are of help as they will blame each other or refer you to the other for help. The rest of the vehicle I have no complains, have a 2008 Urban Runner V6 4WD blizzard white pearl that borders on spectacular. Have noted the drive shaft "clunk" also a problem in Lexus GX47.

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  Love this truck!!! - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runner_momma - May 1 - 10:50 am

  I LOVE this truck! Toyota builds the best vehicles on the road and my 4Runner is no exception. It gets me where I need to go, keeps my kid safe, and does all this without asking anything in return of me except regular maintenance, and new tires! I do wish it has a few more creature comforts...softer chairs (mine are leather), and latch restraints for the car seat, but all of this is addressed on the next generation. Overall I am extremely satisfied with this truck, and I am sure my daughter (9 mo. old) will be driving this when she turns 16! It will need a new paint job by then though...