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:
Showing 191 through 200 of 2,243.00-
solid vehicle - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
By John T. - March 15 - 2:00 amIve owned the vehicle since it was new and it has proven to be 100% reliable. Other than normal wear & tear Ive only had to replace the rear window wiper motor.
-
my first 4-Runner - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
By Nat in NM - March 1 - 10:13 amWanted something a bit smaller to replace the Land Cruiser, but with low range 4WD. 4-Runner is getting bigger, almost the size of the Sequoia, maybe too big. Happy to have the peppy 6-cyl engine, getting over 21 mpg. Off-road performance is solid, on-road tends to lean in the curves, with a trucklike suspension that could be firmer. Turning radius is great. Styling is trying too hard to look like a Hummer - come on, Toyota, your strong suit has always been simplicity and reliability. I almost didnt buy this one because the hood is so high you cant see the road obstacles. Stereo has way too much bass, maybe the higher end stereo is better.
-
great starter - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
By hblakeney85 - February 27 - 1:44 amI love my 4runner. excellent car. hate to see her go
-
I love my gutless wonder!! - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
By blaisex22 - February 25 - 3:58 amI bought my 4Runner from a pawn shop 6 years ago at 135,000 miles. It gets crappy mileage and wont get out of its own way on the highway but for around town and off-road its awesome. Im now at 210,000 and have had only the head gasket issue. I did the head gasket myself and now Im off and running again.
-
Awesome SUV - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
By May Jones - February 13 - 11:53 amEverything you expect from a Toyota, great styling, and the quality is second to none, why spend all the extra $$$ on a Lexus??? The only thing is the gas mileage, however, compared too our friends SUVs its actually good.
-
Solid vehicle - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By pony - February 6 - 8:56 pmReal pleased after coming from a new BMW that was in shop about every month. V8 has great pickup and reasonable gas mileage. Average mileage is between 17 and 18 w regular w about 80% stop and go city driving. Long trips get me 20 mpg. BMW was avg 19 mpg on premium. Still no Honda Civic, though and with the small tank (23 gallons) there are a lot of gas stops. Good amount of interior room, great brakes and lots and lots of storage areas.
-
Worth the money - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
By j - February 1 - 6:40 pmNo complaints for reliability and worth the money.
-
Do not buy! - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
By mathews1010 - January 27 - 11:43 amI buy my brand new 4runner sr5 2010 and it was big mistake. I hate the brakes! It is so slow and is built with cheap metal. Gas 19 Mpg, I hate my 4runner!
-
Very pleased so far - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
By 4runrfan - January 19 - 8:28 pmI own an 04 4Runner with 130,000 miles--this SUV has been as close to flawless as possible. It has never broken down on me--never.Time to hand down to daughter so I need a new SUV. Read all the reviews of the 10 and 11 4Runner and lots of negatives reviews had me looking to Jeep GC, BMW X5. Test drove all three, bought the 4Runner two months ago and havent looked back. Good and bad differences compared to my 04: eliminating the lighted running boards and locking gas cap on the 11 was disappointing, loved my 04 6 engine and its acceleration, dont love my 11 engine with its acceleration. 11 is wider interior and way more comfortable leather seats vs. 04. Overall Im happy with it
-
New 4Runner - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
By Jay - January 17 - 6:46 pmRecently purchased 2wd SR5 4Runner. What a pleasant surprise! I was about to purchase a Pathfinder until I discovered it required premium fuel. Went to test drive 4Runner and was amazed how smooth, comfortable, practical and good looking this SUV was. Plus the fact that the 4Runner holds it resale value better, made this a great buy for me. Holds a lot of cargo with seats down and my three dogs dig the room they have. They also appreciate the automatic rear window feature. Anyone looking for a midsize SUV... dont overlook this one. Only negative is I wish it got better gas mileage, especially in these times!
