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:

• 

  4runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By alias@aol.cm - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Great overall big improvement in handling , and power, fun to drive.

• 

  Great Car! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Charles - December 3 - 6:57 pm

  These cars are extremely reliable! I have had my 2001 4runner with 200,000 miles on it for 13 years. These things will climb anything, and the only problem i have ever had with it is that when it is rainy, the alternator belt squeaks. Overall, these cars are incredibly amazing!

• 

  Sports Edition for the Sport in You - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By northpolermike - November 27 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has the build quality and tensile strength to meet the severe demands of the harsh Arctic environment. In the v-6 variant, it has the horses and the torque to get its 2 + tons heading up and moving out. The VSC+Traction Control, along with X-REAS enhanced suspension and Multi-Mode 4WD makes for a great recipe of SAFETY & CONTROL. When you add to that HAC, DAC, and a great transmission matched to an equally impressive engine, who could ask for anything more???

• 

  The Best SUV for the Money - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By dcross15 - November 26 - 6:51 pm

  Our 4Runner was purchased with 25,000 miles in 2004. It now has 171,000 miles and has required no repairs, other then tires, belts, and brakes. It is a monster in the snow, on the beach, and is very capable off road. With the factory installed towing package it tows my lifted Jeep Cherokee with ease. The 4.7L and an amazing transmission seem to give the car more power the it needs. I enjoy the way this thing drives more then most new SUVs. It still receives many compliments and comes across as a luxury SUV. The front seats could be more comfortable, and the seating position in the front is awkward. These things hold their value extremely well, and are well worth the money.

• 

  Its a Toyota - What do you expect... - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jataga - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my 4Runner for a little over 4 years now and am COMPLETELY satisfied. I must say it is a GREAT SUV to own. The reason why I purchased it was b/c of reliability and looks! I have taken mine off road numerous times in very difficult terrain and with the ground clearance and articulation this SUV has, it is awesome. I put an average of 25,000 miles a year on mine and it is running just as good at 100,000 miles as it was at 1,000 miles. I love it and would definitely buy another one!

• 

  I LOVE THIS TRUCK!!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4RunnerLOVER! - November 21 - 2:00 am

  I brought my 4Runner on march 16, 2003 from darcars toyota in sliver spring Md. All i can say about the car froa weeks ownership is WOW!!!! I love everthing about the car but i only wish toyota had made fog lights as an accesory! Also my car came w/ a maufacture paint defect that was on the rear lift gate but i had my dealer fix it.

• 

  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2014 Toyota 4Runner
  By Shell - November 20 - 2:28 pm

  I bought this as my main vehicle and as a backup to our tundra for towing a camper or boat. We camp in the mountains of Wyoming and we were thrilled at how well it towed the camper, and accommodated 2 adults, 2 teenagers and a dog. Handled amazing on the mountain back roads. Great handling in deep snow too. Other than tires, air filters and oil changes Ive had no maintenance issues. ...still has original brakes at 103000 miles. Lots of room in cargo area.....if youre a multiple dog owner its great. Best vehicle Ive ever owned, both stylish and utilitarian.

• 

  Best SUV ever - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By toyoglide - November 20 - 6:02 am

  Bought the 4runner when it had 70k miles on it. Have done a lot of long distance driving and now have 397k on the suv. Have only done normal maintenance. No valve jobs or other major procedures. Recently replaced igniter, plugs, and fuel injectors and it runs good as ever. Had Michelin LTX tires on it and got 150k miles on one set. This is an amazing vehicle and is built to last. I am sure I can get to 500k miles. Engine is not overly powerful but not a big issue. You can also chew through brake rotors quickly if you are heavy on the brake. Overall I love this suv.

• 

  Born to Run - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Don in Stafford - November 13 - 2:23 am

  The perfect vehicle for anyone who truly wants to get away from the asphalt and onto something a little more challenging. Great handling car, the V8 engine is quiet and powerful. All wheel drive is sure footed, handles well under a load as well as unhitched on the open road. Interior fit and finish is good, new design gives the truck a cleaner, less bulky appearance, and the functional Sport Edition hood scoop give the vehicle an agressive, unobstructed view of the road, and the off road. Lots of thoughtful design went into the interior as well, but the temp and air controls took some getting used to. Great Truck for the offroader and trips to the mall.

• 

  98 4Runner - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By betsypalafox - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Extremely reliable, relatively comfortable, superb handling, and good performance for a V6. Only flat spot has been brakes (warped rotors repaired 2x under warranty). Really shines off- road (and this one regularly goes way off-road), & we havent found the stiff suspension & AT tires to be as jarring for in-town use as we thought we might. Great versatile vehicle if you need something for mom type use, as well as driving over rocks & through canyons in semi-arid west Texas.