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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  Decent, but Overrated SUV - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By workinonjunk - July 15 - 10:00 am

  I have 79K mi. on my 4Runner and its been somewhat reliable, but not what I was expecting from a Japanese vehicle. The MAF sensor had to be replaced at 65K and Ive had to replace the front brake rotors several times due to warping. The seats are horrible on long road trips as theres no thigh support at all. The rear suspension is too soft and it wallows and pitche with even one person in the back seat. Replacing the springs/shocks with an aftermarket set VASTLY improved the handling/ride. Acceleration is OK but highway passing could be better. The ground clearance and 31" tires are great. Fuel economy is OK for an SUV-21mpg highway.

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  7 years later, still running! - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ts Runner - June 23 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car used right after college as a single person, now its converted great for car seats, strollers, etc. Has performed excellent during the worst snow storms, and is a great car for beach trips. Cleans up well, low maintenance, and I would buy it again in a heartbeat.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By dwmiller25 - June 22 - 8:05 am

  This has been my wifes vehicle for 5 years and now with 107k on the clock, we have done nothing to the vehicle except regular maintenance and one battery change out. This car is a fantastic family SUV. The car has plenty of power, a very smooth transmission and all out feel of a well made automobile. Hopefully we will have it for another 100k miles!

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  Fun to drive, strong 4cyl, reliable+++ - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By alchemy - June 19 - 2:00 am

  The 150+ horse power I-4 is adequate for most applications. Excellent acceleration with the manual transmission, strong, quiet and tuff when reved. The interior build quality is impecable. The 2wd model which I have doesvery well on fire roads and minor off road driving. The high ground clearance and manual transmission allows the vehicle to wedge into just about any forseeable situation. With the right tires, it is great on snow too. If you want to climb hills, get the 4x4, but the 5 speed 2wd it adequate for most applications

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  needs larger seats,and mpg - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By wilm - June 8 - 10:00 am

  i found the limited to be full of conveniences and a few inconveniences. i have a 38" waist. the seat belt is hard to find and fasten when i get into the drivers seat.seats need to be a little wider. more options for the money spent would also be a plus. adjustable pedels should come standard with the limited. fuel milege is much worse than a jaguar xj8. which we thought was bad till the limited showed up in our garage.

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  4 runner 2011 - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By yermack - May 31 - 9:47 am

  Ive bought 11 model more than one year ago v6 4L. It feels really big but controls are easy and comfortable. Heating-cooling controls do not work properly-you cannot adjust normal temperature. the gas mpg is pretty good for this monster especially if ECO mode is on. Driving very smooth and slow that annoying in the city traffic.

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  Safe and most reliable - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ritanilesmail - May 22 - 6:11 am

  We bought this car in December 2004. I was pregnant with my first child and wanted a safe and reliable car with good cargo space. This has been our family car for the last 7.5 years and has NEVER failed us. The car now has 134,000 miles & the only maintenance weve done are tires, brakes, a break light & oil changes. I feel so safe in this car; rugged yet has navigation, power everything, rear view camera, great stereo. Although truck-like it has great turning radius & weaves in NYC traffic easily. Powerful V8 accelerates great to merge onto hwy. We tow trailer on camping trips each year! Cargo room is great for house projects & kid gear. Tough, safe, reliable, responsive. I LOVE MY 4RUNNER!

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  Nice First Truck/SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By toolmanjohn - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Only 230 miles so far. Looks like the mileage will be in the 17/18mpg range for my mixed style. On road handling is good. Does EXTREMELY well on bigger asphalt bumps and jolts. Loads of interior room. Well designed layout. Features are great. SMOOTH AND QUIET powertrain. Accelerates as good as my car! Suprising! Shifts smooth too. Had to add a leg bolster to get a raise. Didnt realize this in test drive. My bad. Probably would not have bought. Rotten EGG smell when moderate accelerating or kick down a gear when passing. UGH. Hoping a better tank of gas fixes it! Fingers crossed!! Didnt smell it on test drive.

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  all but the brakes... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By fordo - May 7 - 2:00 am

  for all that i like about the vehicle, like its quiet, smooth ride, towing capability and offroad capability, there are are few issues im bothered with. first, the brakes seem to "stick" when letting off the pedal after a complete stop. 2 dealers ive taken it to dont think its a problem, and 1 couldnt even detect it. very annoying. second, remove the running boards, they are too low and too narrow to be anything but an obstacle. finally, the body moldings seem to collect water--im concerned that this may cause premature corrosion. bottom line: if i get the brakes fixed the overall rating will be about 9.5, if not, its an 8, at best.

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  Used 2000 SR5 Highlander/Sport - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By dds120 - May 6 - 4:16 pm

  I bought a used 2000 SR5 "Highlander" edition almost 2 years ago. This edition has a sport hood, larger wheels, leather seating. Best car Ive ever had. Routine maintenance is all that Ive needed, approaching 75K, should run for 100K more. Wanted a LR Disco badly, but thank goodness mt wife talked me out of it.