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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  Cherry 03 V8 4Runner LTD - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Patrick McHugh - January 13 - 12:53 pm

  4Runner well built in Japan, plenty of power with V8 engine, 5,000lbs towing, scrupulously maintained, mobile 1 oil changed every 3,000 miles. Very low mileage as owner working outside of country half time since purchase. Performed very well on cross country trip. A pleasure to drive, interior in perfect condition, has nav system, am/fm. Perfect size to negotiate narrow road and trails. Any bigger vehicle loses utility. Back country vehicle of choice, beats out rangerover, hummer, etc.

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  Good Truck - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bobby - January 10 - 5:50 pm

  This truck is fun to drive with the tented windows it is a little easier to cool than most I have driven the price of gasoline does not make me stay home any more and I really like the red color with gray interior

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  Luvin my 4runner - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Cheasapeake - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I have a 4cyl with a 5 speed manual transmission. This allows for a nice mix of acceptable power (no towing) and great fuel economy. 18-20 mpg around town 25 mpg highway. (10 mpg in 4wd) The next problem I have with this truck will be the first!

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  2003 4Runner after 6 years of ownership - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve - December 30 - 1:56 am

  Overall Ive liked the truck. I have close to 100K miles now and have taken good care of it. It still looks like a new truck when I get it all cleaned up which I think is due to the quality of paint and components used. Ive been disappointed by the reliability. Among those things gone wrong are: AC compressor clutch relay, Heated mirrors dont work, Lights in several areas of the dash dont work, Front brake calipers froze up. Had to be replaced Transmission or rear end has a whine that Im afraid is the beginning of a big bill. Would I buy again? Maybe, but I would want to look at other trucks first. The harsh ride of the vehicle tends to make those sitting in the rear get car sick.

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  Great SUV - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By TN Driver - December 17 - 2:00 am

  I just traded my 2006 4Runner that I bought new so I figured I had plenty of experience to leave a useful review having driven it 85,000 miles during that time. It was a great car. I only had to perform routine maintenance during the 5 years which was great. I just felt like we had outgrown this car with 2 small kids so I traded it in on a Buick Enclave. My husband had a 1997 4Runner prior to this one and we traded it in with 200k miles on it and he had no troubles with that one either. You cant go wrong with the 4Runner.

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  My 4wd SR5 4runner. - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By vvti168 - December 12 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is sized very nicely to fit into compact parking spots. In addition, its size makes it very maneuverable on road and off. The build quality is phenomenal and the switchgear feels well put together. I like the heated mirrors, power rear window and especially the safety features (ABS, VSC, Trac). The only real gripes that I have are the gas mileage and the tipsy feeling that I get when I negotiate certain curves (feels like itll roll even though it really wont).

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  Not as good as past models. - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By NJGirl - December 7 - 9:00 pm

  This is my third 4Runner 1996, 2004 and 2010. I think that as time goes by Toyota is not living up to the quality that I am used too. By far the 1996 was the best vehicle. I do not like the doors unlocking on the 2010 as soon as the car is in park. I drive by myself long distance and I hate the fact that the doors automatically open. Also not happy about the running boards. I am 52" for crying out loud it is a challenge to get into the vehicle. I wont put anything on the truck unless it is a certified Toyota part. Interior has its problems the head rest doesnt lock into place and that becomes annoying. Oh yeah one more thing the horn on the 2010 is like a horn that belongs on Tercel.

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  Mileage - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Donahue - December 6 - 8:00 pm

  Well built. My disappointment is with the fuel economy. The range I get has never been more than 380 miles @ an average of 17-18 miles/gl. I actually get higher mileage in town than on the highway. I can sometimes get up to 20 miles/gl in town, but never more than 18 on the highway.

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  Toyota Missed The Mark A Bit - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By gman - December 4 - 4:30 pm

  I had a 07 4R and traded for the 2010 4R. The new one is very nice, but it is so much larger and bulkier than the 07. The interior features are square and give a harsher, hard appearance. The locking gas door is gone. Why?? I had to buy a locking gas cap. It is a fine SUV, but if I knew what I know now, I wouldve kept my 07 4R.

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  Mixed Emotions - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Juffowup - November 30 - 10:20 am

  Bought with 20k miles now have 155k. I would buy a Toyota again. Probably not a 4runner just because of the gas mileage 15/18. My water pump went out twice before 100k, dealer said it was a common failure. MAFS went out around 140k. Around 120k the radiator failed internally forcing coolant into the transmission (rare failure), $4500 for new tranny and radiator. Power antenna went out, common failure. Starter contacts wore and needed to be replaced. Coolant line to rear heater broke. Even though it sounds bad, I still like my 4runner. Most failure can be resolved by do it yourselfers with a little research.