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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  Best SUV I have ever owned - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By paul171 - January 22 - 6:43 am

  This is my 3rd SUV, previously owned a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and a 2002 Dodge Durango. The 4Runner is far superior in ride comfort, reliability, resale value, and fuel economy. This is the quietest vehicle I have ever owned, even more quiet than a 97 Acura 2.2CL I had a number of years ago. V6 has plenty of power and I am averaging around 19-20 MPG in town. I really like this SUV and would recommend it to anyone in the market for a reliable and sporty alternative to the larger SUVs. Dont buy anything before you drive this Toyota.

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  get the SR5 04 No more cladding - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By levinoh - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I had the 03 SR5 V8 4-Runner with Cladding for 6 months. A great handling SUV for a truck based SUV. The V8 engine with the 5 speed auto- transmission is the model to buy. However, after a few months, I took notice of the 04 SR5 models and they no longer had cladding. I found that the cladding was getting old fast. So on my 15K service I checked with the deal about the 04 SR5 V8 model, and for the package I got the same options, the spoiler-10 speaker system and 17" wheels with fog lights (now standard on the SR5). The sticker was only $800 dollars more. Now have the 04 with no cladding.

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  Great Car - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Navy Family - January 18 - 12:06 pm

  Just purchased the Toyota 4Runner in place of a 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe and love it. Smooth ride like a sedan but has the room of a SUV. Gas mileage is good and love the style. Love the height of the vehicle, easy to get in and out with children.

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  4-RUNNER FOR LIFE - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4-RUNNER FOR LIFE - January 17 - 4:16 pm

  Bought our 04 4-runner and absolutely will never buy any other vehicle as long as they make it as good as this one. The reliability is awesome. I drive cross-country 2-3 times a year and I am very confident in this vehicle getting me where Im going. I am 49 yr. old female and have it serviced regularly every 3000 miles. Same tires as the day we bought it with 20,000 more left. Done nothing to it but oil changes and check-ups at the Toyota dealerships. Still drives like the day we bought it and now has 74,000 miles. Will keep it til it falls apart, but plan on buying me a new one with the newer body style around 2012 or 2013. Way to go Toyota. You have a very satisfied customer here.

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  Silky smooth V8 and 5spd auto - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By longhair - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Wanted a BMW X5 4.4 but also wanted proven reliability and piece of mind. The 4runner with XREAS, v8 and mated to the silky smoothe 5spd were good enough. Also do not have to worry about an extened warrenty given Toyota reliability. Getting 18mpg with suburban and 20+ highway driving. Very happy with purchase.

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  Loved it - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Wild_man - January 16 - 10:06 am

  This is by far the best car I have ever owned.

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  2006 4Runner Limited - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By melady - January 15 - 7:03 pm

  Well, what did I expect? Its a truck, after all- and it drives like one. I was used to car-frame SUVs, and must say I miss their agility and ability to handle curves without slowing down to 25 mph! Mine is top of the line, but it feels cheap inside. Ive also been used to German vehicles, and have learned that once youre used to that level of quality, its hard to retreat to the Japanese style of imprecise steering and general loosey-gooseyness in the handling department. Affordability is excellent, but next time Ill definitely go back to a German vehicle that makes driving a pleasure, not something that must simply be endured.

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  More for your money - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By kokonee - January 14 - 2:26 am

  Test drove the 2006 Sport Edition and immediatley sold my 01! What a difference between the vehicles. The 06 is quicker off the line, quieter, more solid and I get better fuel economy. Mine has all the possible Sport Edition options and I particularly like the 6 CD changer - MP3 player.

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  excellent except - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By carolyn - January 13 - 10:23 am

  I love my 4runner except one thing. The fuel economy on this puppy is not that good. I go to the gas pump quite a bit in this thing. The 4 wheel drive is awesome and has pulled me through many a snow storm. Toyota quality is outstanding.

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  Drive and Sleep Well With a 4Runner - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By TeeUp - January 12 - 10:00 am

  the best blend of roughness and riding comfort, the 4runner runs supreme within its class. it does not drive like a limousine, alright, but it sure is more comfortable than a lot of mid to entry level sedans. with proven reliability and value retention attached to every toyota, you can indeed drive and rest assured that you wont have to spend a fortune in costly repairs that normally hounds owners of competing SUVs.