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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  another winner... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By JEMN - October 7 - 2:00 am

  Toyota got me back into their drivers seat with this vehicle. A former Honda, Nissan and Toyota owner (if only the Big 3 had their quality/reliability act together I would buy from them), this 4 Runner is just what this mid- life crisis ordered. On the outside, strong, sexy, classy. I love the front grill, the squared off wheel wells, its overall butch bull dog like appearance. Snowstorm here 3 weeks ago - it purred with pleasure in 4WD.

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  Solid truck - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By avoncarguy - October 4 - 2:20 am

  I did a lot of research into different SUV options and the 4Runner came out on top. The European options such as the Land Rover, MB M-class, and BMW X-series are all great options, however in these tough economic times the cost differential simply cant be justified - initial purchase price will be $10k+ over a Japanese option and the maintenance charges are outrageous. Since I do not anticipate going off road, I opted for the 4x2 Limited model. Looks just as good and it is a bit cheaper. While the truck may not be that exciting in terms of fun to drive, the reliability is the main reason I bought it. Do some research and youll be amazed at the statistics around the 4Runner.

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  4 runner - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By bobby5671 - September 20 - 10:00 am

  Very reliable. No repairs needed.

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  This is only my view - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By krissy - September 12 - 1:43 am

  Performance and Reliability are perfect and it looks great, but I have found the Interior Design to be poor, the color is very light, the seating is not at all comfortable, the sound system vibrates in the seats when turned up. If youre packing to go away and you fill up the back, it blocks the radio reception because the antenna is on the back side window, so bring some CDs. Some more of the things I have found not to like is on the stick shift, 3rd is next to drive (same link) so you have to always remember to push it into drive or youll always drive in third. Finally the third row of seating has no floor space for your feet, it is flat. Other then that its Fun to Drive.

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  Runs better than a Timex! - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mell - August 30 - 8:00 pm

  Ive owned my 4Runner for 7yrs. I have 193,000 miles on it with no reason to believe I wont get another 100,000. It has only been in the shop for normal maintenance and a check engine light that keeps coming on for a few weeks and then goes off. Cant find the reason so Im not worrying about it. I dont like how it drives in the snow. 4WD gets me up my steep driveway but doesnt help me stop on slippery roads. Getting about 16 mpg and the small tank means Im always at the gas station. Very comfortable on long drives and cargo space galore. My dogs love the electric rear window and so do I. Its the main reason I bought it. Hardly any rust either. Great SUV! Not too big -- not too small.

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  Not bad for a Japanese car - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ToyotaGuy - August 26 - 11:16 pm

  I bought one of the first 2003 4Runners, SR5 with V8, before the V6 became available. Main reason for the purchase was the great powerful V8 and silky smooth ride. I still like it, but wished I had waited a couple of years and bought a used one, since the value dropped so quickly. The car is so reliable and well built, even after almost 7 years it seems like new, so I think that picking up a decent pre-owned one seems a pretty safe bet. Anyway, the 4Runner is not for tall people and it is not the most spacious SUV out there. If you have a big family, I would go for its big brother, the Sequioa, or the Honda Pilot, if you dont need the V8 power.

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  Toyota is getting stingy - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Piyux - August 23 - 1:30 pm

  I recently got a 4Runner Limited but I had the opportunity to review the SR5 in detail as well. The 4Runner is a great SUV, reliable, efficient, safe, and powerful but on the 2010 I was disappointed to know that Toyota no longer puts the cross-bars in the roof, the mudguards are gone and there is no running boards anymore, not even for the Limited Edition. That is unacceptable. The dealer says that during the 2010 summer these accessories will be available but of course you will have to pay $$ for them. Isnt that ridiculous?

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  Great Reliability, just underpowered - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rking - August 14 - 10:00 am

  Keep changing the oil and this SUV just keeps on going! Rear seat only good for small children, lots of load room. Most reliable SUV I ever had, just no trouble at all. Not a high speed cruiser, but it doesnt tear itself apart from the power either.

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  Reliablity galore! - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joe D, Philadelphia - August 12 - 4:36 pm

  I bought the 99 used in 2004. Ive been driving for almost 2 years now and no problems! (clock wire is loose, no biggie). Still has great pickup, especially in 1st and 2nd gears! 4WD is great in the snow. One of the best riding/reliable vehicles Ive ever owned. This sucker will run to 200k miles without a doubt (currently only at 60k).

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  First test drive - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Planedave - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I was very impressed with the ride and interior design. The v8 didnt seem all that quick, I wonder if the v6 will be enough for this heavy a truck. The plasic lower body panels of the SR5 and sport are ugly like and Avalanche. at $40k + for a Limited (the only model without the ugly plastic) it is overpriced.