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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  Would Not Trade My 4Runner For Anything! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Kev - December 7 - 12:13 am

  My 4Runner is amazing. I love the buttery smooth V8. The interior is perfect. Comfortable and supportive drivers seat (I have a bad back) great sight lines (easy to see all around the vehicle) and gas mileage that is within an acceptable range for me. My local dealership experience is 1st class, from the salesman to the service dept. I am not a Toyota freak. I have owned vehicles from 9 different major companies. This truck ROCKS!

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  Very disappointed - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By Max - December 3 - 1:23 am

  I purchased this vehicle with 126K miles on it. It now has 130K and is sitting in the shop with a $3,700 transmission bill. I had very high hopes when I bought it and was hoping to keep it for years to come. Unfortunately, the failure of the transmission took me by surprise. I am very surprised it wore down after only 130K miles. I really do love the truck, unfortunately someone before me did not take care of the transmission and now Im stuck with the bill. I guess its off to Craigslist to see who wants a mechanics special.

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  First Toyota - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By DaveKP - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Used to be a Honday fan. I never liked the looks of the 4Runners in the past, but the way Toyota has redesigned this SUV is top-notch! I was looking for for a quality, yet affordable mid-size SUV and the new 4Runner is it. Suggestion: unless you absolutly have to have a sunroof, heated seats, adjustable suspension, and few more unneeded options, OPT for the SR5 V8 4X2 OR 4X4. Youll get a great SUV and save $8000.

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  Love my new Trail Premium - 2016 Toyota 4Runner
  By Joseph - November 26 - 9:10 pm

  l had a 2005 Outback XT wagon (which I loved) for about 10 years and it was time to look for something new. The question I faced was, do I get another outback, or do I go with something new. I wanted a truck, but I do a lot of commuting in the city, so it wasnt really an option. I decided to drive a 4runner and that is what sealed the deal. I liked all the features of the trail premium, especially the 4 wheel drive options, so I settled on it with the addition of KDSS. I read a lot of reviews about KDSS that said it was worth it, and I have to agree. I love being up higher than previously in my outback, and I love the truck-like ride. The seats in the premium are very soft and comfortable. The interior is pretty much perfect, with real knobs for the radio and heat controls. I love the reclining rear seats, which are a really nice feature for the passengers in the back. There is definitely enough room with the rear seats folded down to be able to sleep in the back. I had a great experience working with the Mark Miller Toyota dealership in SLC and they were able to get me exactly the setup I wanted. While I loved my Subie, I really love my new Toyota. I look forward to easliy driving this thing for 10 years or more.

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  Excelent - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By JoSh67 - November 26 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car, and a great buy. I couldnt have chosen anything better. The styling and Quality is 10.

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  Very nice truck - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Teacher Guy - November 23 - 10:13 am

  Always had Jeeps before. Bought this 4Runner and I have to say that Im very impressed. The 4wd system can run in 4wd on dry pavement, or you can run it 2wd. Locking center differential is electronic, so you dont have to worry about the transfer case binding on dry pavement (since it can be turned off). Interior room is very good, low, flat load floor in the rear is good, and ease of putting rear seats down is easier than the Jeep. The v6 is an excellent choice with plenty of power, and decent towing capacity for small jobs. I like the driver instrumentation and the stock radio has an MP3 player capability. Good fuel economy with the v6. Avg. 19-20 mpg.

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  My first 4Runner - YUMMY - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Cibyl - November 21 - 10:00 am

  I drove a few different SUVs in its class (Chevy, Ford, etd) and there was no comparison. The 4Runner had the best meld of looks, performance, power and comfort. A HUGE step up from my Jeep Cherokee, which I still love, but the 4Runner is an entirely different class of vehicle. The ride is smooth yet tight, the new V6 is powerful and silky, and the interior and exterior are both beautiful. It is without a doubt the nice vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  Tunnel Vision - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By aquadog - November 21 - 10:00 am

  The dashboard instrument cluster is like looking into a tunnel and very hard to focus on the dials. The clock is part of th climate control and is very difficult to see in bright light. The back door needs to have a remote latch in the drivers area instead of using your key lock. The mirror needs to have a light, all ladies look for this option. Other than the mentioned deficiencies the truck is great.

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  A Great Drive - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By MIKE - November 20 - 7:20 pm

  Pros - a nice ride. Handles well with good acceleration. Cruises nicely at 65 - 70 mph at 2,000 rpm. Avg miles per gallon = 21.5. No vibration of steering wheels over 2,000 rpms as others have suggested. Good radio with great reception. 17" wheels a real plus. Putting the back window down decreases buffeting air when drivers window is down and sunroof open. Cons - brakes a bit weak and seats are harder than my retired highlander.

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  Excellent truck - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By JW - November 19 - 12:36 am

  My 4Runner has been a wonderfully solid, reliable, and capable vehicle. I regularly drive it on rugged 4WD roads during camping trips in the Sierras, Death Valley, and Arizona (e.g. Sunflower Mine, Coke Ovens) and it has never let me down. It has a surprisingly large cargo area and my girlfriend and I can stretch out and sleep in the back (59"). The visibility is great, its easy for anyone to drive, and even after 212,000 miles the V6/auto combination gives me 22 mpg on the highway at 70 mph which Im quite happy with for an SUV. Ill be keeping this one past 300K.