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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  Best SUV period - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By spcledtnta - December 26 - 9:46 pm

  I have had a 2K 4Runner and am now on my 2nd 4Runner. The style, ride, space, comfort, sound, MPG, and the back window that fully rolls down are unbeatable. Love everything about this SUV except for 1 minor detail - power outlet. The location of the power outlet in the front of the vehicle right beside the shifter is not in the best location. If you are trying to power three items such as GPS, Cell Phone and DVD Player for the kids in the back seat then the location gets in the way. Would have been better served on the dash, next to the in dash storage compartment. Would definitely purchase another Toyota 4Runner.

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  1995 SR5 V6 2WD - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By daltam69 - December 25 - 2:00 am

  Very solid truck with no creaks or rattles at almost 80,000 miles. I love everything about this truck except the fuel economy...I expected anywhere from 16 to 20 miles per gallon (city/hwy) but am only getting 13-14 no matter what type of driving. Hopefully a good tuneup will help, but in any case the truck runs great and has a fairly civilized ride for a tough truck. Id buy a new 4Runner in the future...if they werent so expensive, but this one was worth the money used.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By enkaycar - December 18 - 3:33 pm

  I bought the 4Runner after looking at a LOT of other vehicles and the 4Runner was the best choice. Nothing beats Toyotas build quality and that can be seen with the 4Runner. You still see 84 4Runners on the road! Ride quality is excellent and the drive is smooth. Interior design is great too.

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  Reliable, just wish it had more hp - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Firefighterjake - December 17 - 11:23 pm

  I traded in an older 4Runner for this one back in 2001. If youre looking for a reliable SUV, this is the one. Its well built. The only issue Ive had is the infamous Maine road salt has required a fix of the parking brake. It offers some great features and is a true off-road SUV. It will get you there and back again in style.

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  Good News/Bad News - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chimo - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Came to the 4 Runner after 2 Explorers and a Mountaineer. The big difference is the loss of storage space. Whether it is the loss of the room under the back seat for such things as the umbrella or the sunshade, fire extinguisher etc. or that neat place in the floor at the rear for storing the tow hitch and the adapters for towing the space just isnt there. Fuel economy is running at 18 mpg at an average speed of 24 mph. The camera for reversing is a novelty but we preferred the sensor set-up.The choice of colors is very limited and they are all boring. On the plus side the fit/finish are at least on par with Mercedes.

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  Awesome to own, drive and live with! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Champ306 - December 17 - 10:00 am

  The new 4Runner has to be one of the easiest to own vehicles that there is on the market today. You get Toyota quality in and out, marked with a vehicle that is purposeful and stylish. I love the way it looks on the outside, especially the Sport models, the rims and scoop look so much better to me. The interior fits me great, I am 63" and fit no problem, room to haul junk in the back, features and pockets everywhere. The sunroof is quiet, the stereo rocks, the ride is unheard of in an American car or truck, yes, its that good.

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  Love This Truck - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Pat Giles - December 15 - 4:50 am

  I have been looking at these 4Runners for a while. I purchased the sport edition and love every aspect of this truck. It rides smooth, quiet, and is everything I ever wanted in a truck. Toyota truly makes the best vehicles.

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  Fan For Life - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By erRN - December 10 - 7:06 pm

  After driving an great AWD Subaru for 8 years I made the decision to upgrade to a larger vehicle. My original plan was to buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee with great styling, but after 8-9 months of research I found that almost all of the reviews of that vehicle were too scary to make an investment.I bought a 2008 SR5 used and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS TRUCK! I have had it for 7 months now and, as my boyfriend says every time he gets in, "it drives like a cadillac". Quiet, smooth, and fun on the road. 22-24k a gallon highway. Ive owned a Wrangler in the past, and it doesnt even compare to the ride of the 4runner. Absolutely the best investment Ive ever made. I will keep it for as long as it drives!

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  Poor Water Pump Desgn - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Frank713 - December 10 - 10:00 am

  59.5 K miles and noted the coolant reservoir was dry just prior to long trip Denver to Grand Canyon. Water pump was leaking and very expensive to replace...similar to changin timing belt laybor. Was out of warranty by time...but I called Go Toyota and they agreed to pay for the pump, but not the laybor. Im happy with the truck, but dissappointed with the failed water pump with so few miles...no off road. Mechanic told me pump was a bad design by Toyota and it is a common repair for this truck.

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  True SUV - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Calhoun - December 8 - 2:00 am

  Great SUV. Zero problems and excellent usability.