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:

• 

  Top Performer SUV - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Trekker - February 19 - 10:00 am

  I bought this 4-Runner used in 2003, and a year later, not a single problem with it. Very comfortable and I feel safe in it. Lots of room and great classic look of the 4-Runner. The only thing I have issues with is the engine is too weak for the SUVs heavy load.

• 

  Keeps on ticking - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By VDA - February 16 - 7:16 am

  I have been the owner for this car for the past 12 years and have spent less than $1000.00 total in repairs (excluding routine tune-ups, tires and oil changes). This car is amazing, never breaks down. It has 140K miles and is still going strong. Great investment. Very comfortable ride.

• 

  4x4 - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By tmtoyota4x4 - January 28 - 8:23 am

  I bought this 4runner with 140650 miles on it and it is strong as new. It could need a little power and get up and go but other than that its ok, plenty of room for me and my friends to pile up in and take it 4wheelin down the beach or muddin. I average about 14/19 (city/highway).

• 

  Still a great runner - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By RunnerUP - January 8 - 10:00 am

  This is our third one. Last two were 92 and 95. Good looking truck but is somehow missing the quality and content of earlier models. Interior carpet wore through, leather seats started to tear. We treat our cars great, but the 92 was immaculate even after ten years. Did Toyota think we wouldnt notice the drop in quality materials?? Motor is strong. Oil filter is in a stupid location (again!). Paint isnt holding up as well either...lots of hairline scratches. Seats are not nearly as comfortable as the old 92 model. Much smoother though on the highway. Love the rack/pinion steering, longer wheel base & smoother transmission.

• 

  Great truck! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nick4597 - January 8 - 10:00 am

  17k miles and still ticking w/ only one problem to date (moonroof rattle). Otherwise a great truck, VERY SOLID, always feel like youre in 100% control. Corners and handles like a dream especially in bad weather or rough (off-road) terrain. This truck never stumbles. Best SUV ive ever driven, previous car was a cushy Durango SLT+ and my SR5 blows it out of the water. Seats are horribly uncomfortable and if youre over 62 like me, legs will be severly punished by these park-bench feeling seats. Get a seat cushion and all is kosher.

• 

  Cladding, dash (odometer, TAC, etc.) - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By ajivoin - January 4 - 2:00 am

  The design change is excellent except for the crappy cheap looking ugly pathetic cladding. The tri-circular silver dash (odometer, dash) is also a major style flaw. The gauges are smaller than the previous 4Runner edition and the orange back lighting is a joke. This is a 4Runner not a sports car. The shifter is also a sports car design, not necessary in a SUV.

• 

  1999 4Runner Limited 4WD - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By runnerxa - December 26 - 5:50 pm

  Great vehicle if you like the outdoor lifestyle. I love driving with all the windows and sunroof open. Feels like a Jeep but without the noise and rides much better. The V6 engine is weak once you start to load up the vehicle. Although it does have great off the line torque. The ride is truck-like but I am happy with it. The reliability and build quality is quite good. As long as you keep a good maintenance, this vehicle will practically run forever. Lots of aftermarket upgrades for the vehicle. I end up adding a TRD supercharger, URD fuel mods, Doug Thorley header, TRD exhaust, IPT valve body upgrade, 32" A/T tires, Bilstein shocks, and offroad armor. Overall, it is a very capable vehicle.

• 

  Fun to drive!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By donnfann - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive!! Very resonsive. Plenty of towing power even driving thru the mountains. Only negative is a rattle in the sunroof took 4 visits to the dealership to get the problem resolved.

• 

  I LOVE my 4Runner! - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By tuandala - December 13 - 10:00 am

  My 4Runner is the best car Ive owned. Fun, too! It kicks butt in 4WD. It has plenty of power & tows an open trailer very well. Sorry to see that they changed the body style in 03.

• 

  Good SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gygax - December 13 - 1:53 am

  Solid vehicle that has been a driven daily since purchase (along with yearly road trips from Midwest to Coastal states). Several minor issues have arisen since purchase that have been handled under warranty.