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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  LUV MY TOY! - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike & Millhouse - November 10 - 2:00 am

  Ive been sold on Toyotas reliability since I purchased my 95 Camry. I love the MANLY MAN appearance of the front end (with the non functional, yet asthetically pleasing hood scoop). My 4Runners gotten me everywhere I needed to go, everywhere I wanted to go, and almost back again, which brings me to one drawback. This truck is deceptively heavy! Dont take it into a soft, muddy field! (Incidently, I was doing fine, until the running boards started to drag!) Two hundred thirty dollars is the price of my pride!

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  Buy ONE, You will not Regret - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By GF - November 9 - 10:00 am

  18 mpg ok but not the best, more than makes up for it with the exterior body style. More power need for hwy, for city it does well.

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  4Runner a Champ - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By PJayNY - November 8 - 8:03 pm

  I bought the Limited 4WD new and have not had any problems. Pacific Blue is a great color, but discontinued in 2006. Seems to drink a lot gas but not much different from a V6 performance car and probably as good as most mid sized SUVs. 6 CD changer is obsolete since the advent of the Ipod. A $500 portable navigation system probably works as well as the $1900 optionally installed navigation.

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  Absolute Best Car - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rena Farrelly - November 8 - 5:13 pm

  I enjoyed every minute of the 14 years with my 2003 4Runner. AWD is great in the snow and also on the beach. Strong acceleration; never felt top-heavy. A truly reliable and comfortable vehicle. If my son was older, Id save it for him, but weve got 9 years to go! Ill be shopping for a 4Runner for him when the time comes.

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  2005 Toyota 4-Runner - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By o.m.c. - November 4 - 10:00 pm

  We get 22-23 MPG on highway driving and 19 in city. Ride is a little stiff but you expect that in a SUV. We have had only one minor problem and that was the low tire pressure light. It was fixed on the first visit to service. My wife loves the way the seats fit her back. My only problem is I have to duck my head to enter the front seats. I am 6 feet tall.

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  Nice SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Antonio - November 4 - 8:10 am

  This is my first SUV ever. I bought a Toyota because I knew of toyota cars quality. The only problem that I can mention is that the driver seat wiggles a little bit if you take a sharp turn. I took it to the dealer and they told me that that was normal and that Toyota knew about it.

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  My Trusty Companion - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By rkymtnhgh - November 4 - 5:56 am

  Nearly 6 years and 60,000 trouble free miles later, this truck is still very solid and drives like new. I take meticulous care of my vehicles and the 4Runner has certainly returned the favor. The interior has held up well and the drivetrain has been bulletproof. Unstoppable in inclement weather and supremely capable on 4WD trails. I purchased this vehicle for its off road prowess and it has never let me down. Very comfortable highway ride with decent handling and fuel economy for a truck based midsize SUV. The 4 speed automatic transmission, though smooth, could use an extra gear. (This changed with the 2005 V6 models however, as a 5 speed auto came standard).

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  Its a Toyota! - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By Fisherman1 - November 3 - 10:00 am

  No question about it, the 4Runner is the nicest all around balanced SUV available. It is a truck, it is tough. Isnt that what an SUV is supposed to be? Average gas mileage. Nothing more dependable out there. Great resale values.

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  Best SUV for the money - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Toy4ever - November 1 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my V8 4WD 4runner new in Aug 2004. I now have 89,000 hard on and off-road miles on it and it still runs like new. No problems, no repairs, just scheduled maintenance. I had Toyota install a Readylift 2.5" front lift kit, Bilstein HD shocks, 32" BF Goodrich T/A tires and a TRD air filter. I highly recommend these upgrades for off-road use. The increase in performance is amazing. Average gas mileage is 18.1 mpg. My previous 4runners had approx 400,000 miles when I sold them. The 2004 is much better than previous models. I plan to keep this car forever.

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  4th generation 4runner awesome! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By KMT4R - November 1 - 8:16 am

  First SUV and man did I make the right decision. Paid $32K for the Sport V8 with black leather, moonroof, JBL system, spoiler, alarm, etc. Doesnt drive like a truck. I drove ML, Xterra, other SUVs before and the 4runner shows that it can corner like a sedan but yet behaves the a truck over hard terrain or rough rodes. Glides over potholes. Never have to worry about flats. The VVTi V8 is very impressive and well worth the lower gas mileage. Smooth powerband though slight delay at 1500 rpm. You cant be shy to step on gas up to 5300 RPM. Fit and finish is typical Toyota. Very quiet ride. XREAS suspension is awesome, noticeable diff w/ SR5.