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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Solid Pick - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
By blackjack21 - July 26 - 10:00 amBought it new in 11/2000. Has done the job admirably. No mechanical problems whatsoever and the hood scoop gives it a sporty look. Only disappointment is in pickup/engine power.
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BRAKES A PROBLEM - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
By TEVA - July 20 - 10:00 amBrake vibration has been a problem.Rotors replaced pads replaced(three times).Dealer was going to start charging me til I found a service memo about this problem from TOYOTA at this site.
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High Expectations Shot Down - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By krell - July 20 - 10:00 amI was completely surprised that after 10,000 miles there were noticeable problems. The service technician misdiagnosed the problem as a bad power steering pump only to find the true problem being a bad pulley that caused the power steering problem. On the 2nd attempt to fix the problem a new ticking noise in the engine started and I am currently waiting for yet another diagnosis. I drive approx. 30,000 mi per yr, have owned this vehicle for 6 mos, and I am disappointed in these problems so early in my ownership. Luckily its under warranty it is just a pain to have to be w/o a vehicle while waiting for repairs.
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Superb Vehicle - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By tripgrip - July 15 - 2:36 pmI love this vehicle, it is fun to drive, very solid yet smooth ride. It sits up high so that you can see way up ahead the road. Gas mileage was surprising to me... I get and average of 21 mpg on the highway. Toyota is a very well built vehicle and they always have stood behind their product for me.
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4 Runner for Reliability - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
By Tamela - July 14 - 2:00 amgreat for long trips, vehicle is heavy and holds to the road well. In town it is a little cumbersome to handle because of its size, I wish the interior was just a little larger. If you are looking for gas mileage the 4 runner would not be for you. Comfort is great and I will continue to own one for the reliability.
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Poor Rear Bumper Design - needs a recall - 2012 Toyota 4Runner
By dmagruder - July 13 - 9:01 amNice car, but the body panels (specifically the rear bumper) need to be redesigned. (see below). I am already having to replace it before Ive even made my first payment, and Toyota is out of the part because it is in high demand because is a common problem with their current design.
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Pozacs 4Runner - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
By pozac - July 6 - 10:00 amReally beautiful vehicle. Pulls my large pop-up camper well...plenty of power and never had to release overdrive on our trip to Beavers Bend. Kids love the room in the rear and wife loved the bucket seats. Sound system is great! I really wanted a gps/dvd/nav system but was told it was NOT available. Maybe I can find a wrecked Prius.Also had no fog lights but was told it did by another saleman other than the one I used (beware and ask them to show you).
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07 4 Runner - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
By Steve - July 1 - 9:30 amAfter 6 months of reading reviews on SUVs, picked the 4Runner. My second choice would have been the FJ Cruiser. Have had for 9 months and have had no problems at all. This is the first new vehicle Ive owned that has not been in the shop at least 3 times the first 6 months for repairs and/or adjustments. Mileage is 19 MPG city and 22 to 23 on the road. Its enjoyable to have a ride that only requires gas and oil changes. The vehicle I replaced was a 1988 S-10 Blazer purchased new; it was a great truck but the new Trail Blazers just did not impress me as being a SUV. The 4Runner is great in our Minnesota snow and ice, 4-wheel drive and traction control perform well.
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Great all around ride - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
By zach d - June 19 - 3:06 amI bought my 4runner in the winter of 2007 looking for an all around mountain car. It has been everything I have wanted plus more. Maintenance on it has been nominal, apart from the usual oil changed and tire rotation. In the hills this car is unstoppable being able to take any incline i throw its way. The only down side is after 70 miles per hour you begin to feel a little unsafe because of the narrow chassis, and the wobbles it gets while turning at high speeds. Fuel economy for my 5 speed manual has been around 22 on highways.
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Love the V8 - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
By T4R2008 - June 7 - 2:03 pmIve been driving for more than 20 years now and this is my first vehicle with automatic transmission. I always had sports sedans before. I love this SUV. I tested the V6 but found it too buzzy and underpowered (my last car was a Subaru Legacy GT though which was very fast). The V8 is buttery smooth. The ride on the highway is almost as smooth as my wifes Lexus GX470. Great size (not too big, not too small). Trip computer is a bit optimistic. I average about only 17mpg doing mostly highway driving at 70-75 mph. Hopefully fuel stays cheap!
