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:

• 

  toyota 4runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Anastasia - October 22 - 10:00 am

  i love this car

• 

  Glad I got it - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By alans727 - October 22 - 7:30 am

  Well built, low road noise. Nicely equipped standard features.

• 

  4runner - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By pmsturgill - October 19 - 10:00 am

  i bought this vehicle a fewmonths ago, i go through cars like candy and this is by far the smoothest riding 4wd i have ever been in. i am wanting to sell do to gas mileage, but that is the only reason, i have to drive 90miles a day and this is not a good commuter vehicle. i have had some small things go wrong, trouble with rear window ssliders and motor seems weak has trouble when getting to the top, speedo stopped working and back seat windows dont work, who knows dont need em. i think this was a great SUV and qould recommend it for someone who doesnt drive far.

• 

  Good luck getting parts - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By troybarwick - October 19 - 10:00 am

  After 13 months, and 21,400 miles I lost the transmission completely. It had to be replaced. It took one week just for the dealership to get the transmission, and another 2 days for install. Had I not complained to Toyota Corporate, the dealership was estimating about 3 weeks to get the part. No one should have to wait this long. This was my first and last Toyota. I bought a Toyota to avoid poor craftsmanship, but this thing is about as poor as you can get. I also lost the brake sensor on this lemon when it was only a week old. That took 3 days for parts, and only because I made the dealer pull from one on the lot.

• 

  A believer - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Darlaskeez - October 19 - 10:00 am

  Had a 94 4Runner as a second vehicle, sold it w/168,000mi and still going strong, only very minor rust. Great vehicle, no major mechanical problems so bought another! Love the changes made in 10yrs. time especially handling and ride. I ski patrol in the Michigan U.P., my old vehicle always started, always got through any driving conditions (and Ive been through them all). Expect the same quality and reliability in my new 4 Runner! Never considered any other vehicle. Cant say enough, just buy one!

• 

  Adventure if you need it... - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mellow553 - October 19 - 10:00 am

  ...but still very behaved on everyday roads. I was a bit overwhelmed by my purchaseof this oversized vehicle,coming from a previous owners list of small german-imports.. I was very skeptical. Well, its been a week now and I can tell you that Im pleasantly surprised with the way this car handles and its smooth acceleration.

• 

  Outstanding Truck - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By docsweat - October 17 - 10:48 pm

  I just bought a used 06 4Runner Ltd. I love it. Smooth ride on pavement. Went off road and it did great-and I put it through terrain/trails that would break a crossover and strand many other SUVs. The pavement ride is far smoother than any serious 4x4 I have owned or driven, including a jeep CJ-5 Willys, Cherokees, pickups, Blazers and Broncos. The bells and whistles on the limited model make it a real joy and comfort for driver and passengers, especially if they are a family. Comfort on and off road is truly amazing. Toyota cured the two biggest gripes I had about my 98 4Runner-weak engine and too small gas tank. Also made cup holders that dont block the air vents.

• 

  Simply unbelievable SUV! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By SPD1136 - October 16 - 6:36 pm

  This thing is the best vehicle I have ever had, hands down. I have had it for only a little over a month now and I still look for any excuse to drive it. I am amazed how tightly built this vehicle is. I had an 01 Explorer Eddie Bauer before this and there is no comparison. Extremely quiet, incredible power, great features. I am a Toyota owner for life now.

• 

  2002 4Runner Last Of The Beautiful Style - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By JeffJeff - October 15 - 2:00 am

  The truck is nice very nice. Ive had it for almost 3 months now and Im happy with it. My friends love it, my parents love it, people who I dont even know love it. It seems like everyone likes this SUV. At almost 4000 miles on it, it still has the new car smell. It rides great, sounds great and just is a great all around SUV. I had an 89 Camry before this and this was a great little car and I expect this new Toyota to be a great car as well. Well see as the months and years go by how it turns out.

• 

  67,000 mile review - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By t h a m - October 14 - 8:10 pm

  After driving 4.5 years I figured I would write another review w/ reliability notes. Following service manual to a T and everything is running fine other than my sunroof which broke wide open at 55k mi with a $2400 replacement bill that I did not fix (just got it closed). Computer read out says Im averaging 20.3 mpg but its 10% off so actual is 18 mpg - reasonable for a body on frame SUV. Replaced tires at 40k from dealer oems to Mich Cross Terrains - nice improvement. At 63", head and leg room are just adequate. 2 prong outlet is great, but only 1 12v is not. Front passenger space is small - friends ride knees up at 61". Good truck overall and would recommend to friends/family.