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:

• 

  Reliable - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Lindsay - March 13 - 10:50 pm

  This is the most reliable vehicle I have ever had. Still at 178,000 miles it has yet to break down on me once. Toyotas are AMAZING, and definitely worth every penny. I got in a wreck and it completely totalled the other SUV. I walked away without even a dent or scratch on my 4runner.

• 

  Trade in 98 limited for 04 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By maved - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 1998 4x4 limited for a is great. The ride is definitely more car like for all those 2x4 people. Both my dad and I though still miss the 98-though the ride was lot more truck like. It was easier to know where your tires were at off road especially.Hopefully the new painted bumpers will perform like the old chrome ones thatlooked perfect after alot of rocks and branches flying at them. Overall it is very comfortable and nice driving vehicle which a few small design kinks. The interior material that is used to cover the doors is not very good with several bumps. In my old limited that material still looked new after five years.

• 

  Love my 4Runner, but ... - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By DebbyEva - March 8 - 11:56 am

  I bought my 2000 4Runner new and have loved it. It has been so reliable, great in snow and safe! I really want another 4Runner, but have waited 10 years for Toyota to improve the gas mileage on current models. Sadly, I give up.

• 

  Reliable SUV - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Erica B - March 7 - 2:00 am

  4Runner is a beautiful car. Its enough room for five people, but small enough to take places without it being a hassle, in comparison to these oversized SUVS such as the Expedition or Suburban.

• 

  Love of my wife - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Racer8 - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Purchased new for my wife. Absolutely no problems. We love this truck. I have a little trouble fitting in for long distances (6’2 & 230lbs).Weve had it up north in snow and ice and the traction control was excellent.I had my Tacoma out mudding and my wife tried to follow- mistake with the two-wheel drive- it sank to the floor pan. The traction control was the problem, it senses the vehicle is spinning out of control and takes over by shutting down the engine and braking the wheels. But turn off the system and it can manage through unimproved paths easily and rough terrain is ok as long as it is not soft.

• 

  Great SUV! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joe - March 6 - 2:00 pm

  Bought it with 31K on it, have 85K now,and I am convinvced I will own it with300K. I will never get rid of it! Ilove my 4-runner!

• 

  Satisfied so far at 16k+ - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By jonzerstyle - March 6 - 11:03 am

  I really love this vehicle. My list of cars I have owned is as follows (for understanding purposes): Chevrolet Citation Toyota 4WD SR4 - with roll bar fun! Mustang 2000 coupe For the first time since owning my toy4wd I really like driving. This vehicle owns the off-road equally with the on-road. I can go off-roading to meet up with friends to shoot shotguns or cruise for malls for the girlfriend to shop at - hehe. Throw your snowboard and snow chains and gear in and go. My average MPG is min of 20. Acceleration is great - when some jerk is blocking - u can actually put the pedal to the metal and get around them. My 1 gripe is the AC controls are slightly annoying.

• 

  Great Rig - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bill - March 3 - 10:30 pm

  I absolutely love my 2003 4Runner. Its roomy, comfortable, reliable and good looking, too. I also own a BMW 740 and my g/f comments on the 4Runners good looks more often than the Bimmer. In fact, given the option, shed drive the 4Runner first. Interesting. The Toyota V8 is a beautiful running engine and I still get a respectable 17 mpg around town, 21 highway. Oh, I also appreciate the good ground clearance, 4WD and ABS because I live in snow country. This thing is very sure footed.

• 

  99% satisfied! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By blo - March 3 - 7:30 pm

  Love it! Handles awesome and looks great! V6 drives with plenty of power and its smooth. Feels safe and is great in snow or/and off road.

• 

  Everything I Ever Wanted - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Desert Dog - March 1 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my SR5 Tundra for the 04 4Runner. As much as I loved the Tundra, I love this vehicle more. It has the same smooth V8, and the transmission is equally smooth. I love the way it handles, and the full- time 4WD means never losing traction on wet pavement (which my Tundra always did). I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a quality ride. Mine hasnt seen much off-road yet, but soon. The ride on the street is excellent.