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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  great for our off road trips - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By feralcat - January 17 - 6:09 pm

  I just picked up a 2013 trail edition. I paid extra for Nitto Terra Grappler ATs as Ive had so many problems in the past with the standard HTs that come with all 4Runners. I realize that most folks dont off-road but we do a few times a year. I traded in a 2011 trail which ran perfectly. This should be exactly the same but it does feel a little different with shift points and throttle response.

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  260,000 miles. Amazed it is so strong. - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dug Less - January 15 - 8:11 pm

  I just purchased a 1999 4Runner Limited with 260K on the odometer. I had driven many Toyotas and Subarus prior to this purchase. The interior shows wear but the drive and the ride are amazing. I live in Florida and this machine has never been in the snow/salt of the cold north. My plan is to fix and repair as needed. I am amazed that this truck feels so new. The only thing that needs fixed/replaced is the climate control module. It is intermittent.

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  Bought 1999 in 2003 - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By rileykins28 - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 1999 Limited 4WD in 2003. I went to the dealership looking to buy a new 4runner, and couldnt bring myself to pay $35,000 for the newer model after driving the 1999.I bought a certified used 4runner and purchased the extended 100,000 warranty. I only had one problem mechanically with this vehicle and it was totally covered under the extended warranty. Since purchasing and seeing all the new 4runners, I wanted to trade just for the new body style, but cant get the comfortable feeling like I have in the 1999. Overall I love this vehicle, but will try another dealership next time.

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  Excellent - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By JSiv - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I have had it for a year and love it!

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  Its the Perfect Vehicle - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By DianeDD - January 15 - 2:00 am

  This is the second Toyota 4Runner that Ive owned and its simply an incredible vehicle. My current model is a loaded Limited and its comfort level, beautiful design and variety of option features truly make it the most perfect vehicle Ive ever owned. Its large enough to perform as a truck (ie, 4WD for driving in snow and hauling furniture, etc.) yet luxurious enough to make me feel wonderfully comfortable whenever Im behind the wheel. I LOVE IT!!!

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  My Runner. - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gasbill - January 15 - 2:00 am

  The 4-Runner is a very well built and reliable vehicle.It does a good job of meshing its offroad capabilities with its luxury and road features.My wife loves it and I feel assured that it one of the safest vehicles available.

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  Awesome, but pricey - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By loribrewland - January 15 - 2:00 am

  Its a great ride, but its expensive to drive due to its gas guzzling design.

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  Brake & gas pedals - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve Hull - January 15 - 2:00 am

  The gas and brake pedals are too close together for people who have size 12 feet or bigger, my shoe at times gets somewhat caught on the left side of the sole with the right side of the brake pedal, I have contacted Toyota twice about this problem, no responce yet, this could cause a delay in stopping and a crash could occure; my wife is the primary driver and she has a size 8 foot and has noted this also. There needs to be a recall for this problem.

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  Reliability&Performance meet Good looks - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By waldyg - January 15 - 2:00 am

  What an amazing SUV. Im surprised at how Toyota went ahead and perfected even more an SUV that was already one of the most reliable ones in the market today. Its even better, stronger more dependable and comfortable and best looks outhere.You know youre in a big SUV.Excellent handling the controls are so smartly layed out you dont have to look around much to figure them out, especially the A/C its all very simple to adjust and operate, I enjoyed the information panel where you can see outside temperature and miles to empty displayed and the light orange color dashboard is appealing and soothing to the eye. Way to go Toyota.

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  I should have owned one years ago - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By RNMANAGER - January 15 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding performance,good pick-up when merging to an interstate. During icy condition, sets alarm to alert driver of skidding. Ease of view when changing lanes. Storage is adequate with folding back seat, can accomodate long large load. Beats other types of vehicle in an uphill terrain. Full tank I use for a week in a 60 + mile commute daily. Sits 5 adults comfortable. Handles sharp turn well.