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:
Showing 31 through 40 of 2,243.00-
fun fun fun - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By toastychunk - October 28 - 2:00 amI have loved driving this SUV! I got the V8 Limited in all black - real head turner. I agree that the MPG stinks but that is the price to pay to sit up high. We got this SUV when we knew we were going to have twins - they are arriving soon and will be traveling in style. I like all the added touches on this new model.
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NexGen SUV - Worth the wait - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By JMU - October 28 - 2:00 amI was about to purchase my 4Runner earlier but waited until the appearance package on the SR5 that provides color keyed fenders and siding was available. Glad I waited. Dont know why Toyota put that grey cladding on in the first place. Major improvement in almost every way from the earlier 4Runner. I was almost going to get a Highlander but when I test drove the 4Runner I was sold. I thought it even had a better ride than the Highlander. If youre thinking about an SUV drive this one. It has the others in its class beat hands down.
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Good Bye to a Great Old Car - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
By GreenWay - October 22 - 8:46 pmIt has been great to drive this car around! Bought it with 104K miles on the teller which today stands at 145K. This is farewell and a tribute to a great car which drove us without letting us down even once! Regular oil changes and a tire change were the only maintenance activities ever done to it! It is going to a new owner after having it replaced by a Honda Pilot.
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By far, this is the best SUV ever built. - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By spacecowgirl - October 22 - 3:09 pmI bought my 03 4Runner with about 80k miles in 2010 after my 2000 Blazer (which gave me nothing but grief, but thats another review) was totalled in an accident. Id always wanted a 4Runner, but had settled for less expensive alternatives. When my Blazer died, I decided that my replacement would be a 4Runner, even if it had to be older. Four years later I am so happy with my decision. It now has over 140,000 miles, and still runs like new. It hasnt seen the inside of a shop for anything other than routine maintenance. Its comfortable, spacious but not too big, and capable in the city, off road and in snow. My only regret is not buying a 4Runner sooner!
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Everything you could ask for in an SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By Vectorw8t - October 20 - 12:53 pmFrom snow storms in the Northeast to the deserts of the Southwest this truck does it all with ease. Even pulling a loaded 12x6 trailer cross country managing 17 mpg @ 75 mph didnt phase this truck. Rock solid engine, combined with exceptional ride and great efficiency for an SUV. My last SUV was a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 4Runners build quality and handling is significantly superior. Dont waste your time with a Ford or Jeep, buy the 4Runner youll love it. The bottom line is that this truck outperforms in build, quality and performance all of its competitors. If youre in the market for an SUV new or used it should be on top of your short list.
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Had I Only Known - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
By flanagan - October 17 - 8:03 pmSpent last year looking at vehicles from a-z. Hands down this is the best vehicle purchase of my life. Rarely are expectations met and even rarer are they exceeded. Almost bit on a Land Rover LR3, about $15k more than my Limited 4Runner - thank god i didnt. I love this vehicles looks, ride, tightness and overall quality feel after 2500 miles. First time Toyota owner and I am impressed. I really trust the vehicle.
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BEST SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By Floridian - October 16 - 10:00 amAfter test driving similar SUVs: Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer, Acura MDX, etc., the new 4runner LTD tops them all. Wind noise is minimal compare to the others SUVs. To-date, I have driven my new 2003 LTD for 3500 miles and it is the best buy for the money in the market. Had some noises coming from the engine and overhead, but were quickly corrected by the dealer. Was told this is happening with other models.
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I love it!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By tr10x - October 16 - 10:00 amIve owned and driven around all the other styles of 4runners over the years and this one is simply the best....there is no comparison to the difference in power and the smoother ride that all the previous year models had....I Love it!!! Great job Toyota!!
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4Runner Sport Tops - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By rexgretel - October 16 - 10:00 amWe looked at some Jeep Cherokees and Dodge Durangos.... not even in the same ballpark, muchless the same league. Everything about this vehicle has been impressive, from the quality to the surprisingly good fuel mileage. For someone who never wanted an SUV, I have thoroughly enjoyed this workhorse.
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love it - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
By whozat - October 16 - 2:40 amHave had the SR5 for two days. Love it! Fabulous ride. Put 300 miles on it. I got the black exterior with black interior cloth seats and its gorgeous. Excellent visibility-great windows with minimal obstruction. Very happy with noise control.
