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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  4runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By docinmiss - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Nice smooth ride with the V8 fuel econmy same as 2 Exploerers I have owned ample cargo space and rear seats are easy to fold down..rear door closes with ease also..I don t like the plastic bumper and sides..Not enuf lighting of the door switches..

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  LOVE MY TOYOTA!! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By wildcat86 - July 23 - 5:46 pm

  This is my third Toyota and by far my favorite! I looked long and hard for this vechile and it has gone beyond my expectations. It has handled everything I have thrown its way.

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  The most reliable - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By dan721 - July 20 - 7:28 am

  I bought this vehicle in 1995 new from the dealership. The only problems I had was the water pump and front shocks, other than that no problems at all. It has 78,000 miles and runs like new. I highly recommend it to any one who is looking for a reliable car. On gas takes 16 miles/gallon and not very powerful up hill. Save money on maintenance. Love it and plan to keep it.

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  Great SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Laura - July 19 - 4:36 pm

  I bought the V8 Limited 4WD and I have not been disappointed, it drives like a dream not at all like the sled like suvs I have had in the past! The interior is plush and comfy and the controls are a bit confusing at first, but you catch on pretty quick I wish the power windows were a little higher up and more illuminated, also it needs rear cup holders that are not in seat beacuse if you have three in the rear no place for cups except the bottle holders in the door. Overall drive and ride is excellent!

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  1997 Toyota 4 Runner - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Toyota - July 19 - 10:00 am

  I am the original owner and I am extremely pleased with my 4Runner and now have 101,000 miles on it. I do have regular maintenance performed and change the oil every 3,000 miles. The only things have had replaced are the starter, antana two times and the front cup holder in the seven years that I have owned my Toyota.

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  4WD SR5 4 RUNNER/V6 - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By AF-NDI-guy - July 19 - 10:00 am

  So far it has been worth every penny even though I had for this short time. My buddy has a 2004 and I had the chance to ride in it every time we played golf. It has plenty of room for our golf clubs and pull carts! Also I am in the military and haul alot of gear around and it also has plenty of room for that. The ride is uncomparable to my last vehicle Jeep GC V8,2001. The interior design is simple but very modern looking. The exterior is to fall in love with. The safety features are just too long to list! If you are looking at getting one you will be satisfied and get your moneys worth from it reliability and re-sale value!

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  A near perfect SUV - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Frank - July 17 - 7:23 pm

  My daughter drove an older one and was hit by a speeding car running a light. Her 4runner sacrificed its own life to preserve hers, she was shook up but unhurt. My bosses daughter rolled one off an embankment from an icy road. She was shook up but unhurt. He was so happy he went out and bought her a brand new one. I know the accident reviews are good for this truck, but we believe they are way understated. We believe it to be one of the safest in the world today. This high quality full frame, (not unibody) truck is one of the few true off road vehicles left. With its low range gearing and its "positive 4 wheel lock" it is a stand out in a crowd of crossovers and halfway vehicles.

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  Could be better - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gurpinder - July 17 - 2:00 am

  Toyota quality is great and they sure use it on this 4Runner. The transmission is great and strong. When the gear shift, you will feel the quality product. This is my third Toyota and every one ran forever.

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  A Lexus in Toyota clothing - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By rayo - July 17 - 2:00 am

  It is true quality without the fluff. I Think of this truck as a fine wine. It will get better with age.

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  3rd Row - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Toyota Lova - July 17 - 2:00 am

  EVRYTHING IS GREAT...NO PROBLEMS RUNS GREAT EVERYTHING! EXCEPT ONE THING....NO 3RD ROW....TOYOTA IN THE FUTURE I HOPE YOU WILL COME OUT W/ A 3RD ROW 4RUNNER!