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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  nice truck-bad mileage, some quirks - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By benji_b1980 - April 22 - 2:00 am

  We like the truck- solidly built, definite four wheel drive capabilities as well. Your typical Toyota quality is apparent inside and out. When we first purchased it, we noticed how poor the fuel economy was-it avg. around 12-16 mpg,so we thought it needed a tune up. Not only did we give it a complete tune up with the best of everything, we installed a high performance air intake and muffler to help with the mileage and power. Well, it didnt help with the mileage, but it runs like a top and sounds pretty darn cool now too!

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  Amazing New Ride - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By mebeame - April 22 - 2:00 am

  I just picked up my new Limited V6 4Runner 4x4 and love it! I owned the previous model 4Runner and the difference is amazing. I also have had a Sequoia which I traded in for this new truck. The new 4Runner rides like a dream. Much softer ride than the previous model. The V6 is powerful enough to make the car quick off the line and better gas mileage than the V8. I love this car!

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  What do you consider "high mileage" - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By SierraSled - April 20 - 11:00 am

  How could you fault a vehicle that has trudged through 260k miles of Tahoe winters, and Tahoe summers without a hiccup? Hauls every toy I own, lots of wet waggy tailed dogs, crusty skis, dirty mountain bikes, and just keeps on going and going and going. Ill miss this truck as I move on to a 2000 model - my dogs will miss it more. Its their personal expeditionary taxi and barf bag (why they loved to hurl in my truck Ill never understand - must be some kind of dog/truck thing). Onward we go, to a 2000 model with 144k on it, and another 8 years of worry free fun.

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  Best suv - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By John Davis - April 18 - 12:28 pm

  Get one if its the right price... If your from the north check underneath for rust

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  Better than my Previous Vehicle - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By William - April 16 - 6:13 am

  Got rid of my 1999 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 5.2L V8 (318cid) and ran across this 1994 Toyota 4Runner with the 3.0L V6 5 speed SR5. Dont know what anyone elses issue with with lack of power, it has plenty of power (Its not a race car). Planning on using it for hunting and camping and towing my ATV/Trailer.

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  Like it but not love it - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By 1st4RUNNER - April 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven older 4s and they felt more solid, this one drives solid, but doors shut tinny, would wait a year to buy, Im guessing somethings will change, pull out back floor should be an option period, waste of space. Brakes go soft quick and transmission struggles to find a gear, engine and transmission dont seem as smooth as past 4s. Lots of bugs, one day rear defrost works next it doesnt, move side mirrors and rear defrost works again. Anti-lock brakes gave out and now no problems. To keep cost the same on new design Toyota definitely cut corners. Like I said "like It not Love It" for the price I should LOVE IT! Trailer Hitch too short for receiver cause of the full size spare.

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  This is it... best true SUV - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Brent - April 10 - 4:10 am

  I have had my 08 SR5 2WD 4Runner now for over a month and have put a couple of thousand miles on it. Wow, this is it, the best true SUV. When I was ready to replace my 97 LT 2WD Chevy Tahoe I looked and test drove a bunch of vehicles. After driving the 4Runner for an extended tested drive I knew it was the truck for me. The V6 performs so well in so many areas, the truck is laid out perfectly and thoughtfully, and at 6-5" and 280 Im very comfortable. It is awesome on the highway, very quiet, very solid and plenty of power. Lots of compartments to stowaway stuff. I am set for canoing, fly fishing, biking and camping.

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  Awesome - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bong Alquiroz - April 6 - 7:36 am

  When I bought my 4runner in 2004 I am not expecting that this car is that good, I am satisfied with the power and the stability when you are driving in the freeway, going up in the mountain and offroad, the engine is very quiet, gas mileage? Just right. What else can I say..it is an awesome SUV.

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  My 2nd 4runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By bubbs - April 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned 2 4runners now and I believe they are the best SUVs made. My 1990 had 262000 hard miles on it when I sold it, and was still running fine. Ive had the 2002 for over a year now, and its even better than my old one. It pulls my boat like it isnt even there, and does great in the snow. I would highly recommend a 4runner to anyone wanting a solid SUV.

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  Great Used Vehicle Choice - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By pdliggett - April 4 - 7:06 pm

  Purchased this vehicle on eBay with 90K miles for $10850. In the 3 months that Ive owned my 4Runner Ive driven it almost 4K trouble-free miles. No rattles, no broken interior pieces, paint is awesome, and the vehicle runs flawlessly. Transmission shifts smoothly but is on a flexible hanger system which causes it to move around as evidenced by the gear levers moving;it also appears to build up tension on stops and then releases when you move forward...this is apparently normal for these cars. Ride is quiet and smooth; a very comfortable interior. Havent used 4WD yet. 16" wheels are really nice. The crazy aftermarket alarm may have to go. Fuel economy is B+/A- (17 overall/21.5 on highway).