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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  my first 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By badler - March 6 - 10:00 am

  WOW... Man this SUV rocks.... i cant tell you how nice this SUV rides.... and the egine.... gobs of power.... if you can afford it go foe the V-8... it makes a world of difference. I got the limited, and it has everything a little boy could want... oh yeah, the stero is great... just needs XM

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  TAKEN FOR GRANTED - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By res3 - March 5 - 9:44 pm

  I bought my 4runner in 05 with 130k miles on it and didnt blink, now i have 245k miles and have only put a starter on it(are you kidding me). This is the best toyota yet and i have owned 5 toyotas and currently drive a Echo for the gas mileage and it has 190k on it and still running strong. I think about other vehicals but always stay with ol 4runner because it has always been there for me and i look to break the 300k with this truck.

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  2nd 4Runner: excellent vehicle - 2015 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tom Doniphon - March 5 - 3:08 pm

  Replaced a 2010 Limited 4WD 4Runner last year with the 2015. 2010 was close to perfect. Never spent a penny on the vehicle. This one feels the same and it should: it is unchanged for the most part. Front seating comfortable, build quality perfect, A/C-Heat excellent, Satellite Radio works fine, good braking. We get 22-23 mpg on highway. Areas for improvement on the 2017 redesign: better navigation system, improve torque on the 270, have to get the offset crash test results up to 5 star. The current model gets only 3 stars in the offset crash. A nice tight diesel would work well in this SUV, we would buy a diesel over gasoline model, but that will wait as 4Runners seem to just keep going. Consumer Reports unfairly compared the 4Runner SR5 to Pilot top model. SR5 does not have the soft suspension so the comparison and low rating by CR is not valid. The 4Runner is a well built SUV, of sturdy feel, and unquestioned reliability. The price is quite low for such an SUV with leather seating. Bi-Xenon lighting would be a great addition, halogens are just average.

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  LEMON - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Randomguy32 - March 3 - 9:36 pm

  I got a lemon. The exhaust leaked inside the cabin (dealer never able to fix). The electronic stability control system was itself never stably operated (dealer never able to fix). 4wd high didnt always engage (dealer never able to fix). The sunroof would open and close at its own discretion (dealer never able to fix). The fuel cap release latch broke 3 times. The radio petered out, was fixed, reinstalled, and broke again. I wasnt able to drive the vehicle for 2 months of the year I owned it and Toyota would not take it back as a lemon citing Massachusetts loose lemon laws.

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  The Total Package - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By USC Gary - February 29 - 11:03 pm

  Highly recommended for anyone considering purchasing an SUV. After driving BMWs for 16 years, the transition was relatively easy. Although the 4Runner is built on a truck platform, it drives like a car. It tackles bumps on the road with ease and offers a smooth ride. Deft touch in regard to road handling; negotiates curves with little sway. The base V6 offers more than enough power if you dont plan on towing a boat or trailer. You dont need to punch the accelerator to feel the surge of power. The list of standard features is considerable compared to others in its class. Comfortable and roomy second row for passengers. Toyota reputation for reliability and quality was a huge selling point.

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  Not Spacious for the CarSeat Set - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By howiepc - February 28 - 4:30 pm

  We are a family of six and when it comes right down to it our decision to purchase the Toyota 4Runner came down to three main components: safety, reliability and fuel economy. We downsized from a Ford Expedition to the 4Runner because the rising gas prices were cause for concern. Overall we do not regret our choice, as there is no comparison to the quality and safety of a Toyota. We will keep our Toyota for years to come, but with a family of six it will probably be relegated to our second vehicle. We find that the 4Runner will meet our needs in a pinch as a family hauler, but trying to fit four children, two are still in car seats is uncomfortable put politely. Next time think minivan.

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  Almost 160,000 - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By playboy3484 - February 26 - 11:23 pm

  This is the first car I have purchased and I love it!! It has a lot of miles on it but it still rides smooth and performs great. I did get a tune up and replaced the starter but that was it(which wasnt bad considering I paid $6900 for it). My insurance company said the value is at $12,500 so it really keeps its value. Just keep the oil changed and it will love u back. Im driving it until the wheels fall off!!

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  No regrets - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jeff Matthews - February 26 - 4:16 am

  Replaced my 96 Exploreer and have no regrets. Great ride, quiet, plenty of room, and a stable, solid feel on the road. I have to say that this is the best vehicle I have owned. Pleasantly surprised by mileage performance -- its higher than I expected and higher than indicated on sticker. The 6 cylinder packs plenty of power.

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  4runner sport 4wd - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By jdlar53 - February 25 - 12:43 pm

  A reliable SUV, its our third 4 Runner, but our first 4 wd, and we will never get another one. We had alignment issues since the SUV was new, and still have problems with it wanting to drive off the right hand side of the road. It leaks air in all four tires approx 2-3 psi a week. As far as the Tom Tom Nav unit, we are on our 3rd chip replacement, and it still isnt very accurate.

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  not bad at all - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By blitzwood - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I love the economy and versatility of the v-6, only wish it had a little more torqe for better towing. I wasnt thrilled with the plastic panels, but understood the reasoning behind them so didnt really mind them. Thats until I backed into a parked Mustang, barely tapping it with the rear plastic corner bumper. Nothing happened to the Mustang, but the corner bumper had to be replaced. I couldnt believe how cheaply built this important feature was. Only thing worse was the cost to replace it. For example, this little 3"x4" red reflector costs $93. Nevertheless, Id still recommend it.