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 401 through 410 of 2,243.00-
best suv - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
By dennis larson - March 23 - 2:00 amI HAVE OWNED 4RUNNERS SINCE 1992 AND THIS IS MY 4TH....AND THE BEST....4WHEEL PLUS V8...AWESOME PERFORMANCE AND GREAT RELIABILITY...PRIMARILY DRIVEN BY MY WIFE, SHE LOVES THE PERFORMANCE AND RELIABILITY,SHE FEELS SAFE AND SECURE.
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caoc - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By Carlos Olaya - March 23 - 2:00 amIm happy has enough power
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Love it... - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
By Narly - March 15 - 10:00 amThis is the SUV for a person who still likes to drive a SUV with a rugged feel. It drives excellent on and off roads. The 4Runner has a great look.
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My opinion of the 4 Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By LE AYCOCK - March 11 - 10:00 amThe ride is really comfortable compared to the Ford Explorer (which is what I traded in)
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The Best in 35 Years - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By GL.MAX - March 11 - 10:00 amThird 4 Runner, Last was a 2000. Have owened 4x4s since 1969. This by far the best engineered and best built car of it type I have ever owned. Interior: Bucket seats are excellent.Added sheepshin covers to releive the heat/cold of leather seats. Controls are easy to see and operate. (The Inst. Manuel at 401 pages, well...) The A/C is good, not excellent. The CD player is hard to operate if Area Nav is installed. A plus is the mini cam in the rear. Paking it much easier adds to safty as you can see see that no child is behind you. Forward visability is excellent. Rearward is poor. Without the mini TV, backing up would be an adventure and dangerous.
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Great For An SUV - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By Guy With 4 Runner - March 11 - 10:00 amI wasnt really sold on the design of the 4 Runner until I drove it. I test drove every mid-size SUV on the market, this was by far the best. It has good acceleration (for an SUV) and it handles really well. I have taken it off road several times, and it handles everything. Its a really solid truck.
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I love my 4 runner!!! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
By Turtle - March 9 - 10:00 amI got my 97 4Runner as a 16th birthday gift, and till this day (Im 21 now) I still think it is the best SUV thats offered on the market. I love both the interior and exterior styling, the sound system, and the high ground clearance. Also, the O/D button gives superior acceleration while traveling at a high speed (e.g. 85mph). All in all, I would recommend this car to anyone who is looking into buying a well rounded SUV.
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99 4 - Runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
By jusme - March 9 - 10:00 amThis is a beautifull machine. Very reliable.
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Love it! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
By Toyotagirl - March 8 - 9:13 amI bought my 4Runner brand-new in 1996. Granted, I dont put many miles per year on it, but I have spent NOTHING on this SUV other than routine maintenance. It provides a sure, dependable, fun driving experience every time. The vehicle was well thought-out by Toyota -- other than the beverage holders. Theyre located in front of the AC vents and have to be one of the worst designs in automotive history. If this one ever wears out, I plan to buy another Toyota SUV. Thats about the best recommendation I can think of.
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Excellent choice! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
By Blavenia - March 6 - 10:00 amExcellent sport utility with towing package as standard equipment! Strong engine, above average acceleration and an excellent reputation as well as resale value.
