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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  Beautiful SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jawn - February 21 - 2:00 am

  I find this SUV to be incredible.... the ride awesome and it has fantastic capabilities. Ive had 2 4 Runners before and waited for the AWD to be introduced... it was worth the wait!! The V8 power is great and it rides beautifully. The only problem Ive had so far is the 6 in-dash CD player has jammed and is in for replacement!!

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  4Runner 4work and 4play - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Roger - February 16 - 7:23 am

  I bought my 4Runner used in 01. I had a field service job for the last 4 years that required I use my own vehicle, so Ive spent a lot of time in it, in all kinds of weather. It now has 162,000 miles, and going strong. Outside of normal maintenance items, only failures Ive had is the starter and Mass Air Flow sensor. The brakes didnt have to be replaced until 125,000 miles. I love the comfortable ride on the road and off. Ive done some camping/fishing trips in Canada on some pretty rough roads, and it handled them with ease. Ive heard that its not uncommon for 4Runners to reach 250,000 without major overhauls, planning on keeping it as long as it keeps running.

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  Superb Machine - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By JRV - February 15 - 10:00 am

  This is uncompromised quality at its best. Yes, a bit costly given the fact its a 4 x 4, however it drives and rides very well. We purchaced it new in the Caribbean and keep it when we moved back to the States. Its been everywhere, but never in the shop for repairs. Wow! Look, I traded a 97 525i BMW that did nothing but swallow green 100 dollar bills ever since was purchased new. German craft is crapppp!

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  Toyota did it again - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By urgood - February 15 - 10:00 am

  This is a good SUV. Toyota had added a lot of safety feature in its. Especially, the back door has feature that the motor assist to close the door. The ride is exceptional good, it made you felt solid and tough on-road or off-road. The engine 4.0 v6 is very good to handle all you need. If you have to tow very heavy load, go with V8

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  4runner Sports Edition - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JohnA13213 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased my 4runner and already Im in love. This is the best SUV Ive driven. In the past Ive had a Tahoe, and Explorer, neither hold up to my 4runner. If you are considering any of the above, do yourself a favor and test drive them 2 or 3 times. Take your time so you can make an informed decision.

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  Cant say enough - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jango - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I had been looking to get rid of my S80 T6 and wanted a SUV with more car like qualities. First looked at the Murano..nice but not worth the money and too small. Next was the FX 35... nice too but not worth the money, small, features were too expensive. Next was the 4-runner. I was blown away. I test drove all the others and they cant even come close to the feel and performance and reliabilty factor of this truck. I feel like I am drive a sport tank from mad max. The seats are extremely comfortable for cloth and the V-8 is way nicer feeling than the v- 6. 4-runner is the way to go. You cant beat that!!!! I cant even look at anything else.

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  Love the Quality and Performance - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By F. Yaghoobian - February 15 - 4:23 am

  I am 52 years old and I purchased the 2004, 4-Runner, V8 Sport Edition in Dec 2003. So far, I have over 80K miles on this car, with absolutely no issue. The only issue I had, was related to the driver seat, in which the seat would drop gradually and you had to pump the seat up every once in a while (design issue). I must say that this car is extremely reliable. I have never had any issue with this car and after 80K mile the car is running just like the day I purchased it. All parts including the battery are still original parts. I must say that I have done oil and filter change every 3000 miles, but none of the major scheduled services yet. Great car with great quality.

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  1 year later - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nancie - February 14 - 3:46 am

  I wanted to wait to write a review until I had my 4Runner a year. I drive appx. 30000 per year so I needed a comfortable vehicle. My only major complaint is the handling in windy conditions. That might be inherent of this type of vehicle, though. If I keep my foot out of it, my gas mileage improves greatly - 24 MPG. Overall, I love the look and performance .

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  Comfortable cruiser - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By shermjet - February 11 - 8:06 pm

  After some haggling at the dealership over this car being a CPO we came to terms. The dealer would replace the two missing key FOBs, fix the significant scratch on the right side and make this look like it should for a CPO. The third row seat is missing on this, but thats ok with me. Now the vehicle. This is as smooth as many cars as I have driven. Not sure where the editors came up with the harsh ride, but I have driven this so far from Madison, WI to Toledo 3 times in the 60 days, and twice from Madison to Hayward, WI. I am averaging 21.8 MPG over all with my best being 23.7 MPG Hwy at 75mph. The cabin is quiet and comfortable and well laid out for long trips. I have the v-6.

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  A Really Great SUV! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rich Stone - February 11 - 7:26 am

  Smooth yet strong engine. Fast accelleration. The 4Runner performs as good as it looks. We took it to the Smoky Mountains and it had no trouble on steep inclines. Plenty of power in all situations. Lifetime power train warranty at Ft Myers Toyota was another great selling point. Would have liked to have a little more leg room in drivers seat, but was able to adjust seat tilt to correct the tight fit. All in all this is a great vehicle both inside and out.