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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  They keep getting better - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By desmo - October 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my 4th (one of each generation). Cudos to the 4Runner engineers who find ways to improve upon this great vehicle. Not yet tested the offroad capabilities but if its anything like my 1999 Sport (at 10k+ feet ;), I will be happy.

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  Excellent Reliability & Utility - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ryan - October 20 - 2:43 am

  I have 2WD Sport Edition in Thundercloud color. Bought used w/135k. Now have 145k miles. Its been totally reliable, except for one minor 4Runner weakness - that darned power antenna! I replaced it myself for about $25. Otherwise its been perfect. Can be a bit bouncy on rough roads, but it is a truck after all. Found the seats a little uncomfortable for my legs the first 2 months, but now OK. The utility is perfect for me & love open-air feeling. Size is perfect for me, but might be tight for larger/heavier people (somewhat narrow vehicle). Nice seat fabric on Sport Edition! MPG avg: 20city/24hwy. Rides on Michelin LTX tires.

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  awesome - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By wv - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I looked high and low for the perfect combination of performance, reliability and comfort. The 2004 Sport Edition I found was loaded with all the options I desired. Ive had toyotas in the past and have never had any mechanical problems. I dumped my BMW 740iL unreliable dinosaur for this awesome offroad driving machine.

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  Best vehicle ever! - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ernie - October 13 - 10:10 pm

  This car has given me 211,000 miles and counting with minimal maintenance issues. The mileage includes brutal off-roading excursions and dozens of hunting trips. I have had the vehicle break down on me once in 13 years of ownership. You cannot ask for a more reliable vehicle.

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  Great Build Quality Inside Out - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4RunnerLovers - October 11 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this SUV on July 31, 04. Put 50miles on it and am touch from the first drive. Roomy leg room for front and rear seats, self-latch rear door, nice hood design, climate control, standard vehicle stability control, ABS, EBD, EBA, XREAS, neat engine cover, comfortable bucket seats for front and REAR seats too, perfect design headrest fit w ell for my body posture are all the standard feature that made me choose this SUV over Plain look, simple dashboard design Honda Pilot with less features. I dont see what editor comment about spongy brake pedal feeling. I love the brake feeling compared to accords (Stiffer feel). I think its perfect already.

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  No wonder it is so popular - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Phillip Jones - October 11 - 8:40 am

  For years, the 4Runner has been a popular SUV in TX. I bought a 2005 V6 SR5 and liked it, but traded it in for this SE V8 so I could pull a RV travel trailer. Went with the upgraded JBL audio system and leather. Love the sunroof. The engine is a solid performer and accelerates nicely when needed. Exterior aesthetics are nice. Everyone who has ever ridden in it has been impressed. I expect to drive this well past 150K miles.

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  Best SUV on the Road, Hands Down !!! - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Theroses - October 10 - 2:53 am

  I bought the SUV after running from a hurricane in NC with my Oldsmoble D88 and the olds died in the middle of 4 lanes of trafic 20miles long. I called a close friend and he said I could use his old 4Runner to get out of town and we did, safely at that. After this life altering event passed and we got home safely I went to a local dealership to look at Toyotas. I bought this 4Runner with 30K, now it has 175K and runs as great as day 1. This SUV has been on beach where other cant go and now I live in upstate NY so its tackled its share of major snow storms with ease. I love it! Now my son drives an 89 toyota pickup, my daughter a 96 Corolla and my wife a 02 Avalon, Im sold on Toyota!

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  High miles, low costs - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By captron2 - October 7 - 11:36 pm

  Swallowed my misgivings and bought this SUV with 118,000 on the odometer. Car now has 190k miles. 4Runners, I learned the hard way, have one generic flaw: rear axle seals. I have had to replace them twice. If theres gear oil in the rear brake drums, plan on spending $1000 to repair. Otherwise, no problems whatsoever. V6 gives decent mileage, too: 20 in city, as much as 26 on highway if you can drive a steady 63 mph.

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  MB > Toyota....Yeah Definitely! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By John - October 6 - 9:20 am

  Nice touches giving driver and passengers comfort and reliability. Very solid ride, turning, acceleration and on-spot braking. A/C cooly handles 100+ days here in Dallas! From Mercedes to the 4 Runner... yeah, I did it; and no regrets!

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  This is a great vehicle - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By relba67 - October 5 - 10:00 am

  I researched several vehicles before making my decision to purchase the 4Runner. This vehicle is awesome. Its a smooth ride and its very comfortable. It has awesome features. I just love it!