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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  Bargain at this price - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ColoradoToy - December 4 - 12:50 pm

  I just cant believe that for under $28k I drove off with a real 4x4 (ladder frame, coil springs, locking diff, 17" wheels, 4-Low, etc) third row seats for little kids, lots of power, convienience and safety features, and Toyota quality. I see people spending that much for Subarus and much more for Pilots and Volvo XCVs and RX-330s and quite frankly they dont really offer anything in comparison to this vehicle. They cant tow, the cant do real off-road, and they just arent as strong of a vehicle. It gets better mileage than our RX-300 did and blows it away in acceleration. We live in Colorado and every now and then we go down some rutted, rocky road and this thing gobbles it up.

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  Our new 4Runner - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By matt barron - December 3 - 10:26 am

  This vehicle looks awesome from every angle. We got the color we wanted and the 2006 SR5 looks like a limited did in previous years. The standard HAC (hill assist start) has come in handy a handful of times on my in-laws monster driveway. Our 4-liter V6 gets 23.0 mpg on the interstate, thats strong. It stands head and shoulders above its competitors.

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  Nothing Better - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By thesaucy1 - December 1 - 9:30 am

  So much quieter than my Jeep Grand Cherokee, much more solid feel too. The 4runner is a design that has proven itself year in and year out for a reason. It is more than capable off road (drive it on the beach every week) and has good manners on the road.

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  My 2nd Toyota! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By MzJeepDevil - November 29 - 10:50 am

  I traded in a 2003 Nissa Xterra Super Charge for a couple reasons: a. I wanted something with better gas mileage. b. I wanted a sunroof, with the same power as my super charge, plus I like the rear window being able to go down. c. The 06 4runners car insurance is cheaper. d. A full tank in the Xterra lasted me 4-5 days, a full tank in the 4runner last 14 days. wow eh?

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  Worth it - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By KEC - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned several SUVs and this 4Runner is defenitly the best I had. Strongly recomend it.

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  Great Truck - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By msi - November 25 - 9:23 pm

  I have driven this truck on and off road and have never had a problem. I love the body design and the fact that it is truly made to be on and off road unlike most other SUVs that are built only for road use. I couldnt be happier with this vehicle and plan on keeping it a very long time which says all there is to say about its reliability.

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  Super Mid-sized SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Beach Bound - November 22 - 2:00 am

  A great mid-size SUV. What Land Rover Discovery wants to be. Fun to drive. Easy to handle. Every thing is reachable and eaasy to use. When I want to go, it goes where ever when ever no problem. Worth every penny.

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  Suburban Hauler - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By David - November 21 - 12:10 am

  After driving Ford explorers for over 10 years, I purchased the 4runner 3 months ago. Likes: -dealer experience -build quality (except doors tinny when shut hard) -big buttons -gas mileage really 17 city/ 23 freeway -practical, not luxurious -rides well on rough dirt roads, as well as smooth pavement -quiet cabin -quiet engine (like a sewing machine) -satellite radio, usb port, -not a minivan -power rear window (excellent ventilation when combined with sunroof) -rear seats fold down flat dislikes: -way too high off the ground and no running boards -orange dials very difficult to read in bright sunlight -too much hard plastic -needs optional cargo cover

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  Still a great vehicle - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By DougT - November 16 - 5:56 am

  I posted a review back in November of last year after owning my 4Runner for six months. Its been four months since and I have nothing new to say other than this is by far the best vehicle Ive ever owned. Ive owned it for ten months now and it still blows my mind at how well this thing was made. Its now seven years old with over 110k miles on it and everything is functioning fine. I love the 4Runner more and more each day. I got it for a really good price when I bought it and worry that Ill never find another deal like it on my next Toyota (which is what Im sticking with). Those Japanese designers have their stuff together thats for sure.

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  My 4th 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By wldlif - November 16 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th 4Runner. I just traded a 2003 Sports Edition in on a 2003 Limited and this is the best vehicle I have ever had. Got tired of the gray cladding on the Sports Edition! My first 4Runner was a 1991 and I put 180,000 mi. on it and I still see it around town, a quality vehicle! This to me is one of the best SUVs on the road and I would highly recommend it to anyone. I have always gotten a very good deal and paid a fair price!! This Limited V8; is a KEEPER!! I purchased w/ 9k on it and have put 600 mi on it in last week driving in many different conditions; rain to heavy snow; from mountains to 4 lane hwys and handles fantastic in all conditions!!