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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  Good, Dependable SUV - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By RSL - September 4 - 5:13 am

  I bought this vehicle in August 1998 and have put over 113,000 miles on it since then. Overall, it has been a reliable SUV. The fit and finish are still excellent after 8 years of ownership. Mechanically, the car has been virtually maintenance free. My only significant complaints are the stereo and the power antenna. I had the stereo replaced 3 separate times. The power antenna was replaced twice. Gas mileage averages about 15 in the city and 20 on the highway. Power is only adequate. I still get compliments on this vehicle 8+ years later. The paint and overall look still is appealing. I would highly recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a highly reliable SUV.

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  Surprised at How Much I Enjoy It - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By TreyBlaq - August 15 - 8:56 pm

  As a road warrior moving from an Acura RL to an SUV, I have been very surprised at how much I have enjoyed this vehicle. I typically drive 1,200 miles per week and with the exception of brake pads and tires, this truck has asked for nothing but gas. On that note, I have been tracking the mileage for the past 30k miles and Im averaging 20.9 MPG - not bad for a V8.

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  Money well spent - 32k o.t.d. - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By hammer - August 13 - 1:03 am

  So far very good with this Ltd. Galactic grey mica v6 2wd 4runner. I live in the south where snow is not an issue so 2wd for me. Powertrain is top notch - can barely feel transmission shifting. Rides surprisingly well for a body on frame suv, quiet at speeds under 80. Interior is laid out nicely with easy to use climate and radio controls - jbl 10 spkr. 6 disc in dash changer stereo is a nice system with full sound. Room up front is fine, even though it has a low roof with the sunroof, and rear leg room is fine - but toe space is minimal back there. No third row on my model... dont need it. Cargo area has a double level floor option that is very usable and smart.

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  4Runner love - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jonsie - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I test drove a 4Runner 10 years ago and fell in love with it. Finally I got one on my own and needless to say its even better than the one I tried back then. It drives like a car but you know you are sitting in a very comfortable and smooth riding truck. It has a very tight turning radius and suits well for the city as the country. I live on the side of a mountain and it yet has to fail getting me home. The downhill assist is very nice in heavy snow and the car literally walks you down the mountain. The only downsides I can mention are the seats in front are a little high to the roof and its a little akward getting into the rearseat.

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  Good Little Ride - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By OrbDog - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my first 4Runner for two weeks now. My wife and I really like it. We had a loaded Montero SR, so we miss the amenities, but the 4Runner is more fun to drive. Some say it feels like a truck, I say its responsive and it allows you to feel the road. Not mushy road fell like the other SUVs out there. The Sport Package makes it look original, and tougher than anything else on the market right now. The smaller engine it better than I thought it would be, but bigger would still be better. Great braking!

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  tight quarters - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By rhc - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Inside the cab is very limited in space. I feel cramped inside while driving. Needs more headroom particually for one that has a sunroof. Ride is very smooth.

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  Toyotas Best - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By George Suggs - June 6 - 12:46 am

  This has been a very reliable and enjoyable car for us. Weve towed over 5000 lbs of payload... had to replace disk brakes, but no other problems. A very well made vehicle.

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  Great Suv - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jgold95 - June 1 - 2:00 am

  I have had my 4 runner for a month and i love it. only one problem which seems to be a growing problem on the V6 according to the dealer which is the fan makes a loud squeeling noise when its cold and then goes away once the truck is warm, no fix as of yet but toyota is working on it, atleast they are aware of the issue. Otherwise i still love it and am very happy with it.

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  Rock Solid - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dwern - May 14 - 2:00 am

  I bought my 4Runner used four years ago with 63K miles. I bought an extended warranty when I bought the car and what a waste. I have had only had to put a new battery and starter in it in the last 4 years. Every mechanic I take it to says it is bulletproof, which I have found out as it is near 123K miles. We recently bought my wife a Mercedes ML320 and I still prefer to ride around in the 4Runner.

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  4runners are not what they used to be - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By lillirs18 - May 12 - 8:58 am

  I have had the pleasure of owning 2 other 4runners before this one. One was a 2000 (leased but new) and the other I bought with 18,000 miles on it (2003) and had it until 118,000 miles when I decided to purchase a new 2011 model. While they did some nice improvements (love it being taller!) the quality isnt there anymore. I have had a rattling in the AC vent for 7 months (the dealership tried to fix it 5 times and still hasnt succeeded) and the paint chips so easily. And why would they keep the long antenna? I have been in touch with the dealership and Toyota customer service, and they just keep saying to take it to the dealership. Its a shame...