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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The Best SUV !!!! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By Mikesail - February 9 - 2:00 amI traded my Passat for the 4 Runner SR5 4X4.What a quality product.Look no further !!!This is the best SUV on the market.Drove the VW Toureg,Honda Pilot,forget about the Explorer-waste of money..Just get the 4 Runner.Why would you pay close to 30 K for anything else.My first Toyota and absolutely love it.Versatile,fun,roomy and really drives like a car.Quality!!!
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Im in Luv!!!!!!!!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By Getnsmart - February 7 - 9:26 pmIm actually in shock that I have this baby. I have a couple of toyota pickup, most recently an 03 Tacoma Quad cab and this 4Runner blows them all away. The ride is much more comfortable than the truck I had. The 6 cyl is 55 hp faster than the truck and I can definitely tell the difference.
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Solid As A Rock - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By Ken - February 3 - 10:06 amOverall a good buy. No regrets. Well let me take that back. I probably should have gotten something better on gas!! Nevertheless the only mechanical issues Ive dealt with are the brakes and the gas tank door getting stuck. Like I said its a good solid buy. Like many other people, will have to decide whether to keep or find something with better gas mileage.
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great SUV - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
By bob453 - January 31 - 10:51 pmNeeded a tough SUV for daily use. I drive 10 miles each day off road getting to work (dirt/muddy road). My last SUV (Santa Fe) started falling apart after 5 years on this road so I decided to get a 4runner this time. This vehicle is bulit very well. When I was at the dealer I got the shop manager to go over every part of the car. We even got under the car and he pointed out may key points. I was impressed with the service and the build quality. I now have 12k miles on it. The SUV handles all I can throw at it with no problems (mud trial, bumpy roads and steep hills). The ride on road is just fine and I dont have any noise issues at any speed (even at over 100mph).
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Best SUV you can buy. - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By dominic16 - January 31 - 12:28 amBest SUV, really dependable, the V8 is were its at. Since its a toyota.... you wont need to replace alot of things till 200,000 miles.
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Best SUV Money Can Buy - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
By G - January 30 - 7:33 pmThis vehicle is the best one I have ever owned. I have owned many SUVs. To list a few I have had a 1994 GMC Yukon, 2006 Ford F150, 1997 Toyota 4runner. All around this is the best from the snow to mountain driving. I drive many kilometers per day, average 225 km a day and this is the most fun, comfortable vehicle out there.
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Most comfortable car I have owned - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By Jim - January 30 - 5:10 amGreat ride, comfort, leg room, storage room aplenty, pickup great, have received several compliments on car, could not be more pleased with quality, finish and comfort of the 4runner.
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Super SUV - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
By Paul K - January 26 - 8:43 pmTruly a super comfortable SUV. The seats are close to being as comfortable as my 2008 Tundra that I traded in for the 4Runner. Long trips they are still great. Handles well on rough Texas FM roads. The fuel averaging is right at 20mpg but its still breaking in and thats city.
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Much more vehicle than the 02 4runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By Rustyrujo - January 26 - 2:00 amTraded in an 02 for a 03.Vehicle is superb in every way.More power,more room,rides a hell of a lot better.
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Another Solid Toyota - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
By Quietrover - January 26 - 1:06 amThis is our third Toyota (Tundra and Matrix) and have been just as impressed with the performance and quality save for a couple of small annoyances like the TPMS and the temp controls with a mind of their own. Very well behaved and comfy on and off road, tried to spin the tires on the dirt but couldnt due to traction control, just launched (scary). Head room is limited but will learn to live with it (Im only 510"). We will keep this rig for a very long time.
