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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  Top tier vehicle - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By tmkh - April 3 - 9:46 am

  Strangely, I traded a 2002 F-350 diesel for the 2005 4Runner. We wanted a vehicle that both my wife and I could drive. The F-350 was too much for my wife. Although I really miss the diesel motor on my truck (and the camper), the 4.7 liter v-8 is very nice. Its enough to pull my 17" boat, and should be able to handle a small trailer. The fit and finish of the 4Runner is really top notch. I am amazed at how refined the interior is, especially compared to my Ford, which, with the Lariat trim, was no slouch. But the superior build quality of the Toyota is already apparent.

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  Its all good - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Cobra_pwr - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I have the SR5 Sport Edition. Never seen a sharper looking SUV. This is the 1st vehicle I have owned w/o a V8, and truthfully the 4Runner needs one. Without the truck being in 4WD on wet pavement it is unreliable...though the VSC does help. The moon roof and sliding back window are cool and the gas mileage is not that bad 18-20mpg. Stereo system sucks, the speakers are trash.

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  Traded in JGC for a V6 SR5 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jeep24Rnr - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Had a JGC 5.2L AWD with reliability problems but otherwise OK experience. Traded it in for a new 04 SR5. Compared with the Jeep, it is much more refined, but engin is a bit wimpy. I am suprised by the 0-60 of 8.2s results on the V6 4Rnr. With 1500 miles, so far no big problems. But there are several things that should not have been there: (1) steering wheel felt a bit shaking at 65mph, not consistently present. (2) Plastic casing for the RoofRack that contains the joint to the roof was NOT snapped in => had to snap in myself. (3) Wind noises are a bit more than I expected, there is some hint of hi- pitch wind whistling from pass window, Have not decided to take to the dealers yet.

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  The Class of the Class - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tob - March 17 - 2:00 am

  I was the third owner of this well- maintained 4runner. As soon as I brought it home, my neighbors immediately came over and complimented it. This was just the start. Complete strangers would rave over it at gas stations. After driving a few bombs the last few years, this was quite a change. This was a seven year old vehicle! It had the coldest air conditioning . Unreal.. Rock-solid build. Everything worked as new and the paint was still in great shape. Even my inlaws said I made a good choice! It was slightly underpowered in the mountains and fuel economy was not great. The positives definately outweigh the negatives on this vehicle

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  Good Buy - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rahul_boy - March 12 - 10:00 am

  I decided to buy the Infinity FX 35 but then test drove the Toyota 4 Runner Limited. I was floored, the performace was very close to the Fx35 and it was a lot cheaper. Add to it the Toyota quality and you have a bombshell. Here is the deal if you can afford it buy the X5 if not then the 4 Runner is your best option. Also get the limited only if you are looking for leather seats desprately, if not then then the SR5 is a strong option.

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  It is a cheap truck with a back seat. - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By ckimmel - March 8 - 10:52 am

  Last car was a $55g 09 BMW 335i xdrive w/ sport - ref this vehicle for my pov. It was the ultimate, if you want a fast capable vehicle. Now lets talk about a real suv. I wanted a fun and radical departure from a 335 - I got it! The 4runner is not fast and is NOT a luxury car - slow down and enjoy life. The interior, ride, and quality is fine for a 45g truck based suv. If you want a fancier version - shell out the bones for a Lexus GX. The seats are fine for a truck, the body is not meant to reduce drag so it whines at times, and the brakes make a sound. It is a great vehicle in a quirky niche that is overall big fun to drive for a relatively small payment. Fun ride.

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  Devil in the Details - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By rob in co - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Overall, this is a very impressive vehicle. However, I have had a recurrent front suspension squeak (traced to the body mount) that is still not fixed after 4 visits to the dealer, and I am now seeking to have the vehicle replaced with a new one with 3200 miles on the clock. I have also been bothered by a rattle in the headliner by the sunglass holder. I expected better attention to the small details by Toyota, but hopefully they will remedy the situation. I love the vehicle otherwise, Id just like to have a new one thats without the squeaks and rattles.

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  Why I Buy Toyota - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By hopdevil - March 6 - 8:26 am

  This is my 3rd Toyota, following a 2WD pickup and a 98 Tacoma. The great thing with Toyotas is that you get exactly what you expect. They dont have as much power as other brands and theyre not as big on creating a luxury interior, but thats not what I look for in a depreciating asset. Like my other Toyotas, routine maintenance is all I ever have to do and that saves me thousands of $s over friends with other brand vehicles. The only expenses after 76,000 miles are a set of tires, pair of rotors, some oil, and some windshield wipers. It still even has the original brake pads. The vehicle is superbly engineered, handles off- road situations very well, and is great in snow and rain.

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  4Runner review - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Nate Frame - February 24 - 7:20 am

  I have beat on my 4Runner again and again. It was used a lot for farm work, pulling trees down, and hauling heavy loads with a trailer. The only time it left me stranded was when I ran it close to empty. It was my fault. If you find one with no rust, get it rust protected. Any body shop should be able to help you. The inside of the doors and tailgate. The 4Runner is not fast, but its very dependable. Stick with the manual transmission models, the autos suck a lot of power you cannot afford to lose. Thirteen hard Michigan winters have taken their toll, but she is still alive and kickin.

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  Great truck, not-so-great mpg, Good buy! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Maki - February 24 - 6:16 am

  My first SUV. Bought it with 69K miles, now has 73K. Love the styling in and out, though THE FRONT CUPHOLDERS ARE HORRIBLE!!! Everyone complains about them because theyre in an awful location and they vibrate! Im planning to retrofit the newer 4Runner cupholders as others have done. Other than that, its a great truck! No problems whatsoever. Just change oil/filter every 3K and add gas, you can go anywhere. I take it snowboarding every weekend, drives great in the weather though I use chains in the snow...no 4WD. This car is a classic example of Toyota quality and no-nonsense styling. Toyota covered all of its bases, except the aforementioned cupholders and a little lack of grunt.