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 2001 through 2010 of 2,243.00-
Love This Tuck - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
By Jena42183 - February 9 - 7:30 amI just bought my 4Runner SR5 4x4 6cyl on Saturday at DCH Brunswick Toyota in N. Brunswick NJ. The dealership was great and gave us a good deal. I absolutely love the truck, its such a smooth ride for an SUV. Ive had a 2003 and 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee and this truck is 10x better. I will be back in another 3 years for another!
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hot rod performance in an SUV? - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By J.Weaver - February 4 - 10:00 amI test drove a ton of other suvs in this class,(durango, explorer, cherokee, range rover, tahoe, etc...) none came even close to the performance, reliability, qaulity, handling or overall satisfaction level for me. Same goes for the Dealership that helped me find the perfect car and get a fair price! (Hanover Toyota)
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06 SR5 4runner - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
By WCF - February 2 - 11:43 amThis is a great vehicle. Our first new Toyota. Comfortable, reliable, smooth rider. My kids both want me to give it to them! Im thinking of moving to something like the Lexus LX just for the luxury of it, but would recommend the 4Runner to anyone.
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Well made vehicle - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
By Kevin - February 1 - 9:00 pmWhat an improvement over previous model years. The handling is refined like a car with limited body roll but does not sacrifice off-road capabilities. I am 64 and it would be nice if the front seat went back two more notches. The sound system is excellent and the back seats are roomy enough for a large adult to be comfortable. Exterior appearance is similar to the larger brother Sequoia but looks sportier all together. It would be nice if VSC can be disabled when in 2WD. Gas mileage averages 19.5 with combined city highway driving. V6 engine and 5 speed automatic are a perfect combination and provides a good pull through every gear.
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Most dependable vehicle I ever owned!!! - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
By jolene putnam - January 30 - 4:26 pmI purchased this truck with 32k on it, it now has 90k and runs amazing. I have towed far more than i should have and it still runs great. Only routine maintenance has been needed. This truck has been a blast in the snow, I have not had any problems going anywhere, even in 2 wheel drive I was passing trucks struggling in 4 wheel drive. I am planning on buying a newer model. All in all a great vehicle. I have never doubted it.
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exellent truck - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By haro - January 29 - 2:00 amexellent suv. no complains, so far I like everything on it
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Rocks - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
By Eric - January 27 - 1:23 amThe ride is rough but thats the ONLY negative. GREAT car. Always works and is totally versatile.
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LOVED this SUV - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
By SpoiledWife - January 26 - 5:40 amMy husband bought this 4Runner for me used with 100k mi on it. I had no problem with the miles as it was all still as tight as the day it was new. I put another 40k on it before I traded it in 2 weeks ago. I loved it. There is room for 4 large adults comfortably, 5 if one is a smaller child with no car seat. But I have had 5 with one in car seat many times and it wasnt too bad. I never once had any doubts about getting in it and driving where ever I needed to go. I routinely got 18.5 mpg mixed and 21 mpg highway. With the back seats down it can hold a lot of crap. The front seats are ok for short distances but over a long drive the seats can get hard.
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This truck can easily pass the 300k miles - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
By Sergio A - January 26 - 1:33 amLast 4 ever!
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I had a 87 bmw but I love this SUV - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
By new4runner - January 25 - 3:23 amOriginally, I wanted a lexus RX 350 but I really needed a practical family car to transport my teenagers. I have loved this car. My friends with mercedes are asking me if I like it. Yes, I really do. Just got it and someone keyed my car. No problem, I do have insurance. Its a shame someone would do that to my beautiful red 4Runner. Just wish it had a light on the window control panel. When it is dark, I cant find the correct button. I also wish it got a little better gas mileage and had a panel that shows how much gas I was using per mileage and how much gas/miles left to use.
