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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  Oh! What a feeling - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By fatherdoug - September 21 - 1:36 am

  After much consternation and discussion, we decided to go to a rental/sale lot and look at vehicles. Afte looking at several models and manufacturers, we decided on the Toyota 4Runner. It has been more than we expected. The V-6 engine has more than enough power (it will definitely do 110 mph). The interior is well-appointed and comfortable. And the headlights, oh the headlights. I have trouble seeing at night, but not with the toyota projector beams. Even with only 5000 miles, the only drawback is the gas mileage. But even with all the power the V-6 has, the gas mileage isnt bad compared to other vehicles with bigger engines and less power.

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  Not sure - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By dbail - September 15 - 10:53 pm

  I bought this on Halloween because I had read all the great reviews. Im looking forward to the reliability that everyone raves about but I do have some issues with it. The seats are extremely uncomfortable. There is a lumbar support bar that sits in the middle of my back and causes my legs to cramp. I had to pull it out during a long trip. Also, the cruise control is awkward over 70 miles an hour. If there is even the slightest hill the rpm sky rocket in order to keep the speed. Not a smooth transition. I love the automatic rear window for groceries and its a 4WD machine. The antenna has already broken but not worried about it. Differential lock a huge plus. Great vehicle horrible seats.

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  Ho Hum Reliable - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rick - September 14 - 10:06 am

  Bought the 2002 2WD 4Runner based on reliablity history of Toyota. Nothing spectacular after 52,000 miles. Always starts, no major repairs - except the automatic radio antenna broke and needs to be repaired someday. Car is holding up well. Only regret is that I didnt buy a 4WD and sunroof, both would make the car better for me. Drives/handles like a truck - not the smoothest ride. Good visibility, no blind spots. Somewhat noisy on the road - even with new tires. Sometimes, Id prefer to have a fun car with some pep, but my plan was to keep the 4Runner until I get to 200,000 miles.

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  Toyota 4Runner SR5 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By mmerc - September 13 - 8:40 pm

  Wouldnt you know it, finally can afford a 4Runner and not crazy about new body style. Love mid-90s 4Runners and all previous. This one is cool, but almost ostentatious-looking. Also the gas mileage is really pretty bad; so far just driving in town, hope its better on a road trip. Great Toyota quality seems intact. Rear-seat passengers complained about "too much heat" in back seat in winter, dont know -- a little bulky to turn & park. Also uneasy about "push button" 4WD: prefer old lever style in an emergency which is when you would want it. Still love it overall.

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  Fantastic Vehicle - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By JmaninAZ - August 22 - 11:56 pm

  Great build quality, excellent ride (even with the XREAS suspension, which firms up the ride just slightly, but it handles great in the corners), good brakes, comfortable seats (I am 6 ft 1 and fit easily) - couldnt be happier. Silky smooth V8, and gas mileage after 1 week was a pleasant surprise - 20.3 combined city and highway (I drive it gently, though!). Cant wait to take it to the mountains in Arizona and find some snow!

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  Love my 4Runner, BUT - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By MR. Rob - July 30 - 10:00 am

  The new designed 4runner is amazing on the outside, but does have some flaws on the inside. I have the Limited 2WD with the V8 engine and get an average of 19 mpgs mostly in highway driving. The engine is quiet and powerful. The car is gorgeous from the front, but the rear is a bit less macho than the past models. The interior has some noticible flaws: 1) The cup holders are terrible 2) The seat belts are bad (they fall into the cushion and are hard to find. 3) No memory seats available. 4) Cannot get a CD changer with the navigation system. 5) No 3rd seat option.

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  Drive shaft problems - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By granny - July 27 - 6:26 am

  Bought new with 140,000 miles today. Early 2008 thought vibration was u- joints but had to have drive shaft replaced. 8/09 - it is just now doing the same thing. Checking to see if common complaint. Until then it has been very reliable and maintenance (major) free.

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  00 4 runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By ikw - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Strong reliable truck. It is built to last.

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  Fun, Fun, Fun - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Art Henry - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I too test drove numerous mid-sized SUVs and really liked the "Runner". I also currently own a 2002 Explorer. What a difference between the two. While the Explorer is somewhat bigger, the ride quality is no match for the 4 Runner. The 4 Runner seems lighter, more nimble and just more overall fun to drive. Kudos on the new body style and engine horsepower!

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  Best Car Ive Ever Had - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By sambot - July 14 - 11:53 am

  I drove this thing from Waterloo, IA all the way to PHX, AZ without stopping (besides to get gas). Never overheated, and I was hauling a 8 foot aluminum trailer. Engine is not powerful by any means, but it is reliable. Seats are comfy and interior design is simple with room for mods. I honestly believe this SUV was the best ever made.