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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  MY Favorite Toy - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Avalon Perkins - July 13 - 2:23 am

  Toyota has really out done themselves when they changed the body style of the 2005 4-Runner. Its more roomy and drives smoother. I like what youve done for me Toyota! :)

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  2002 SR5 2WD - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By WAJ - July 11 - 10:00 am

  Pretty good all in all.

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  First SUV...Love It - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Louisville Runner - July 11 - 10:00 am

  This is my first SUV. Im very impressed with all aspects of this vehicle. Toyota merges comfort, reliability, style, and utility very well.

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  Bang for the buck... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Trebz - July 11 - 10:00 am

  The V8 seems to have adequate power, and the torque will no doubt make pulling a trailer a breeze. It is amazing that only Toyotas have the sliding rear window. Our dogs are going to love that feature. Stereo seems adequate (we have the base model), but would have liked to see an AUX port or an MP3 capable CD player. My only regret is that we didnt get the auto-dimming rear-view mirror/compass. The trip computer is nice, but previous posts have questioned its accuracy. I will be looking at that more closely over the next few fill- ups.

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  I do not like this vehicle - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By kara8 - July 9 - 7:22 pm

  This is my 2nd 4Runner. My last 4Runner was old and I wanted a new, reliable vehicle for my daughter and me as I was worried I would start having problems. New 4Runner is not reliable. I really, really dont like this vehicle at all. I have had it since Aug. Every time something hits the windshield, it cracks. Its cracked 3 times since Aug. Major hassle to get it fixed every time it breaks and it seems like it always breaks. Prior to this vehicle, I have replaced 1 windshield. Also had a major electrical failure, which put it in the shop for 5 days. Still doesnt seem right but the techs say its fine. Waiting for it to break again. It shifts totally weird. I dont recommend

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  Great Truck - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By LBK - July 6 - 9:43 pm

  The 2004 4Runner is truly an excellent SUV. Ive owned it for 5+ years, 88,000 miles and it has never required service for any problem. Mine has the V8 and it is AWD. It is really a perfect drive train combination. Handles well, comfortable, smooth ride and looks great. My only complaint is that the interior needs to be some design improvements and the GPS navigation could be a little better. See suggested improvements. This aside, Id buy another one for sure. It is the best vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  what were engineers thinking of? - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By rebecca phillips - July 5 - 10:00 am

  WHY make a back window that would go down with the remote access and not be able to go up I feel like I am looking at the sunvisors every time I get in this vehicle. there are people with long torsos. AND the fact that you have to be Godzilla to pull the back door down? it would be nice to have at least two phone portals or should I say phone/computer or just plain more than one in the front. I find the one near the console VERY cumbersome. Sounds like a lot for someone who rather likes the vehicle but that window is BAD!!!! and those door locks are horrible!!!!!!!!

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  191,000 miles and still drive it daily - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rob U - July 5 - 2:59 am

  Have put 120,000 miles on the 99 4Runner. The only repair issues are a small oil leak, replacing the clutch every 8-10 years, and a brake job or two. All relatively minor repairs. Handles and drives great. Wonderful in the Colorado snow. Great visibility. Sturdy design. Relatively quiet inside although newer models are even quieter. Its a V6 so it has decent power but not great, especially up mountains. If youre thinking of buying a used 99 4Runner and its got 200k miles on it - Do it! Plan to drive mine another 100k miles at least. Older, reliable vehicles are better for your bank account than losing thousands of dollars in depreciation every year. Repair costs have been minimal in the 9 years Ive owned it.

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  Love My 4runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jason - July 3 - 4:43 am

  I love this thing. It has great acceleration, handles great on or off road. We have the jbl premium sound system, this has a great feature for kids in the back. They can listen to what they want and I can listen to what I want. It is really fun in the snow and mud.

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  Best mid size SUV for the money - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Q - July 2 - 3:43 pm

  Most reliable SUV I have ever owned. The only thing that does not work is the power antenna. As far as everything else this SUV is made to last.