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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  Awsome SUV - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Freche - May 3 - 10:00 am

  Great Vehicle, looks awsome, especially the Sport Package Highlander model with the Hood Scoop

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  Best Vehicle ever! - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Brian Petersen - May 2 - 6:59 pm

  I have had my 2008 SR5 V6 for 7 years and it has proven to be the most enjoyable vehicle I have ever owned. Perfect reliability, useful utility configuration, great comfort, excellent audio system (I use MP3 CDs), and a great looking design. With normal dealer maintenance there have been no problems at all. The only design elements that you need to adapt to are the heat/air buttons, the poorly located power window switches, and the low contrast multi-purpose computer display. I have no trouble with winters in Iowa, and always look forward to driving this sharp looking model. I installed a chrome horse head hood ornament so I could always look between a horses ears as I drive... I like to think of it like riding an ultra-smooth horse.

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  2nd 4-Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joseph W. - April 28 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle handles great, has great comfort and the design is neat. It is very roomy and the interior is laid out comfortably. Great acceleration and handling for a SUV. Drives and rides like a luxury car. V-6 is plenty powerful and has reasonable gas mileage for a SUV.

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  Nice car - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Shaad - April 28 - 2:00 am

  The major selling points for this car are the V8 and the new exterior styling. The car handles well but is somewhat sluggish on acceleration. Interior amenities are superb. I wanted a Sport Edition but had to get a Limited in order to get the nav/backup camera option. I was also disappointed that I could not get a CD changer with the nav system.

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  Quality SUV-But Has Quirks - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By okmarshal - April 26 - 1:53 am

  Have owned this vehicle for 18 mos. and overall have really enjoyed it. Have previously owned 3 Explorers, 2 Bronchos, & 1 Cherokee & this beats them all hands down. The sound of simply shutting a door tells you its built better than the American SUVs. Gas milage is better, the ride is smoother & you just feel safer riding in it. The only drawbacks are quirky things such as; Non-lighted & oddly placed door switches, beverage holders that dont seem to fit anything, only (1)12V power outlet that goes dead when ignition is turned off, so you cant charge anything overnight, Zero foot or storage room under seats, remote that lowers back window but doesnt raise it back up??

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  Overall good utilitarian vehicle - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By gail eddy - April 21 - 10:06 pm

  we consider this suv a better overall vehicle than the ford explorer. We have owned two explorers, a 1992 and a 1996. The toyota 4runner has handled the mountainous terrain that we live on better than the fords. It has plenty of pep and an excellent 4wd and low range system. The interior is cramped, especially where the control panel is in conjunction with the cup holder-bad design, and along the sides of the seats for cleaning. Overall however, we have a sense of reliability with this vehicle and it will most likely be with us for many years.

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  Super Satisfied - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By ogvaz - April 18 - 3:13 pm

  This vehicle has been one reliable SUV. I own a 2004 MDX, and it is not as reliable. I changed the front brakes for the first time at 100K miles, and the rear at 160K miles. It now has 180k miles and ready for another timing belt. No major issues with this truck except that I changed the radiator 3 years after I noticed some pinhole leaks in the top reservoir. I only did this because I was concerned about 4 wheeling in the hot desert. This work was also done at 160K miles when the factory hoses were changed out for the first time. I took it out 4 wheeling last December in the Anzo Borrego desert over boulders and steep inclines, and it still performs like a champ.

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  First 4runner and loving it... - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By jbrhymer - April 18 - 2:16 pm

  This is my first 4runner. Was eyeing the Tacoma for years, but having 2 dogs plus hauling snowboarding gear all winter, I decided on the 4runner. No regrets. Dogs love the back, rear window is awesome, handles off road, snow, ice, mud with ease (I did swap out the Dunlops for better tires). Looking for a mid sized suv that handles well on road, handles great offroad, and wont leave you stranded on the side of the freeway? Get a 4runner.

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  Remain Optimistic - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chiromedic - April 17 - 10:00 am

  1- The Vehicle is very nice; looks great, drives very nicely, and quiet for the most part. 2- I have had it for less than a month now, but do enjoy it tremendously. From weeks of research, I found out that you cant go wrong with a Toyota, only with the dealership.

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  Fifth 4 Runner Owned - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nick - April 17 - 2:23 am

  Have owned five 4 runners to date including the original fiberglass cap model and all other generations. This one is the best yet. Drive is firm, acceleration and power fits my needs and the look of it in black with the 20 inch wheels is awesome. In a world of pregnant looking station wagons parading around as SUVs this is a refreshing change. Sound system and navigation system work beyond my expectations.