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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  Overall good utilitarian vehicle - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By gail eddy - April 21 - 10:06 pm

  we consider this suv a better overall vehicle than the ford explorer. We have owned two explorers, a 1992 and a 1996. The toyota 4runner has handled the mountainous terrain that we live on better than the fords. It has plenty of pep and an excellent 4wd and low range system. The interior is cramped, especially where the control panel is in conjunction with the cup holder-bad design, and along the sides of the seats for cleaning. Overall however, we have a sense of reliability with this vehicle and it will most likely be with us for many years.

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  Transmission Shudder from 1st to 2nd upshift - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By giuseppeg - October 20 - 1:08 pm

  June 15th, 2012 Toyota released TSB-0089-12 that affects 2010-2012 4Runners and calls for replacement of full transmission. www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/89301-has-anyone-noticed-10.html I know Im covered for 5yr/60k miles power train but I traded it in for $28k (Paid $34k new) after 3 years of ownership for a 2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring.

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  OIL SLUDGE COVER UP - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By pschumacher - October 4 - 3:05 pm

  Before you purchase any used Toyota with the 3.4 V6, research: "Toyota Oil Sludge" problems. Also read up on the massive recall Toyota launched to replace thousands of engines. Unfortunately, this recall did not show up in the reliability section of my trusted vehicle review sites. I bought an amazingly attractive clunker I am not alone BEWARE I loved my 4Runner, but it will be the last Toyota I own. At 110,000 careful and certified serviced miles I need an new $6000 engine. The Toyota Service Advisor admitted there is a design issue. But nothing they can do at this time.

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  If you are taller than 6 feet, beware! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By DrLev99 - August 10 - 2:00 am

  After only 1 week & 400 miles I am ready to trade! I am 6 feet tall & with the sunroof my head was rubbing the roof liner & my line of sight was at the top of the windshield. At that position you cant see the odometer, the turn signal flashers nor the fuel gauge without the steering wheel tilted up in high position. The side lateral supports were too narrow, digging into my side/kidneys. Minus the above, I am sure its an excellent SUV otherwise: plenty of power, smooth and quiet on the highway. Its a solid good-looking SUV, so be more careful upon your test drive than I was.

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  Lousy Transmission - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jay Alan - February 27 - 7:03 pm

  I bought this truck after having a 2002 GMC Envoy. Since I bought this truck, Ive noticed the vehicle shifts up or down harshly and at the wrong speeds. When the ac is on, the idle is so high that the truck seems to drive itself. Coming off the highway, the car lurches forward when youre merging onto a new road. Very disappointing and cant wait to get rid of it.

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  4Runner owners beware of Transmission - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Disappointed - February 2 - 1:56 am

  Purchased 4Runner used (w/ 75K miles) from a dealership with high expectations regarding the quality and realibity of a Toyota. At 146K the Transmission went out which is not much better than the Ford Taurus we owned. The cost to replace the Transmission was $4500, OUCH! We decided to rebuild instead which cost around $1800.

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  Disappointed in Sluggish Gas Guzzling performance - 2018 Toyota 4Runner
  By Warren - January 16 - 4:27 pm

  Im a first time Toyota owner. Have always loved the 4runner look and finally decided to trade my F-150 and try one. I went with the TRD off road model because I really like the sportier all black trim on the inside and the rims. I probably wont do a lot of off-roading but I do have use for the 4 wheel drive in the winter and I love the "truck" feel. Not many SUVs left like it. Also, Im not a tech guy so the lack of tech options that many reviews talk about doesnt bother me. So, Ive had my new 4runner for a few weeks now and have my first 1,000 miles on it. About half of those are highway miles. There is a lot that I really like about it. Love the way it looks, love the stance, interior is comfortable but not too plush, ride is quite nice for an off-roader, quality seems great, no squeaks or rattles which I cant stand. I have to sadly say though, that Im very disappointed with the engine performance. It feels extremely sluggish and non-responsive to the gas pedal. I noticed this even on test drive but figured It was just different from what I was used to and since all the reviews I read pegged the 0-60 at 7.5-8 seconds, I didnt think it would be an issue and Id quickly get used to it. Unfortunately, not the case. The sluggishness is a continual disappointment. In fact, I have tested the 0-60 myself about a half dozen times and I cant get to 60 in under 10 seconds. Thats nailed to the floor 100%. If I actually drove like that, I think I would get about 5 mpg! Normal accelerator use takes FOREVER to get to normal highway speed. That leads me to my second real disappointment which is the fuel consumption. I knew from reviews that these were not great with gas mileage but mine in considerably worse even then the estimate ratings. They are rated 17 city - 21 hwy (avg 18). As I noted above, I drive about a 50/50 mix and my avg mpg after 1,000 miles has topped out at only 15.7 mpg! Even being very "gentle" with the accelerator, I cant get it to creep up any higher than that. I should say that Im not trying to nit-pic. I REALLY wanted to love this vehicle. Im just really struggling to get past the poor performance issues. I wonder, are the 0-60 ratings and mpg ratings just overly generous/overstated, or could there possibly actually be some kind of a problem with my engine? And I wonder if any other owners share these disappointments? Anyway, if these issues are of concern to you, youre definitely not going to be pleasantly surprised by the 4runner.

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  Transmission Problems - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By A. Jackson - January 14 - 10:10 pm

  At 100k miles needed transmission replaced. Drivers seat fabric separating at seam. Drivers seat belt retractor sluggish so belt buckle gets caught in door.

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  BAD AC unit on this year 4runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ballinfur - January 13 - 11:19 am

  $3000.00 fix for parts and labor @ Toyota dealer to fix AC/Heat relay and blower related problem. Dont buy any 4runner from the late 90s to 03. Problems with AC unit, Heat, clutch relay, not cheap to fix at all. Problems are recurring too. 2004 and newer are fine. Other than those problems listed, this SUV would of been GREAT.

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  Dont be fooled by the great reviews! I think people dont know any better! - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
  By face6 - November 27 - 8:17 pm

  I am very disappointed with this SUV! I purchased my 4 runner in 2011 and have 27,000 miles on it currently. My main issues are as follows: 1) Price to value - MSRP on my limited was $43,000+ in my opinion after owning it and driving it - its really a $33,000 SUV (or should be priced this way.) Very tinny sounding when you slam the door - seems like poor quality, somewhat underpowered, many interior features cheap and plastic, Handles poorly - (See consumer reports negative reviews) - I ignored them when i bought mine. Nav/Bluetooth very antiquated - Nav way behind the times. Bluetooth sound quality when on your phone is poor. Trunk area - slight tilt Groceries shift milk falls out/breaks