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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  2001 4 Runner 4 X 4 - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By R. McNamara - October 14 - 2:16 pm

  This vehicle has lived up to all my expectations. I live in a very snowy area, it went through waist deep snow with no problems. The 4x4 system is easy to use. It is painted dark green. The front bumper is painted to match and it doesnt hold up well to chips from rocks. The paint shows every ding and scratch. The preset number buttons on the factory radio are almost worn off completly.

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  2001 4 Runner 4 X 4 - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By R. McNamara - October 14 - 7:20 am

  This vehicle has lived up to all my expectations. I live in a very snowy area, it went through waist deep snow with no problems. The 4x4 system is easy to use. It is painted dark green. The front bumper is painted to match and it doesnt hold up well to chips from rocks. The paint shows every ding and scratch. The preset number buttons on the factory radio are almost worn off completly.

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  Buy the KDSS - 2017 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bill - October 10 - 5:12 am

  Our Offroad Premium with KDSS is just spectacular. We opted for sunroof delete for increased headroom. No typical sway while driving. The 4Runner is basic compared to many other offerings. Its also rated for well above average reliability and resale value. Ride and comfort are great. Visibility is above average for any vehicle in this class/size. Blind Spot monitoring is not available. Problem solved with $5 blind spot stick on mirrors. Immediately after purchase our area had a decent snow storm. 4Runner handled the snow with ease. It could either use more power or lose 500lbs. We bought the 4Runner for its top rated reliability and dead simple drivetrain. I can deal with the lack of power.

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  Dont miss Explorer... - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By P L - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought this to replace my 98 Explorer. There is no comparison between the two. My 4Runner feels like a bank vault in comparison, and is just a nicer, better vehicle in almost every way, except the auto 4x4 which I miss using (but not fixing). I passed up new baby SUVs and newer domestics that cost the same so I could get Toyota quality and a real truck. I was really burned on my Explorer as it was constantly in the shop. Lesson learned.

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  THE TRUE RATING - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By BSCOOBY - October 10 - 2:00 am

  FIRST OF ALL THIS VEHICLE IS A GAS HOG. I HAVE READ RATINGS OF GREAT GAS MILEAGE. MY COMBINED IS ABOUT 13-15 MPG. THIS IS AN UNSAFE VEHICLE TO DRIVE IN THE BRIGHT SUN. WITH SUNGLASSES ON ITS HARD TO SEE THE SPEEDOMETER AND ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO READ THE TEMPERATURE AND RADIO STATION READOUTS. THE POWER WINDOW IN THE BACK SHOULD BE A POP-UP LIKE ALL THE OTHER MFGS. THAT WINDOW IS ONE PAIN IN THE BUTT AND NOT USER FRIENDLY. OTHER THAN THAT WITH THIS BEING MY FIRST JAPANESE VEHICLE (IVE BEEN DRIVING DOMESTICS FOR 33 YEARS) IM SATISFIED WITH IT. I WAS TIRED OF GETTING NOTHING FOR MY DOMESTIC TRADE-INS.

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  1999 4 runner saved from clueless owner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By john - October 8 - 5:30 pm

  Bought off ebay 7/2007 with 100k, did all of the deferred issues,+ new springs, shocks, 1 " lift, changed all fluids, cold air intake. Great quality (mini Land Cruiser) same looks, better mileage. Better 4 wh drive system. Power is a little weak, gas gauge reads empty with 5 gal. in tank (common) this is a true 300K truck with the right mechanic working on it, 1999s are the year to buy, they sit an in. higher than all the other years. Had a 1993 land cruiser for 14 years, great but sucked gas. This 4run get 17 21 town/highway. Will cruise 90 mph all day long. No oil usage or leaks 285.75 /16 tires & spring spacers & it looks ready for anything, great for anywhere.

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  Runna - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By clarkj5 - October 4 - 12:53 pm

  Love it! Ive wanted a 4Runner for 10 years, Now I have one and it was worth the wait. Love the off road capabilities and styling.

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  just a few little things - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By miltondelug - October 4 - 2:00 am

  all in all a great suv I bought this to replace my Toyota Tundra. This has more room and we are expecting our second child. Everything is great the all time 4 wheel drive is amazing in the snow. a couple of small complaints is that there is only 1 outlet for your phone charger the Tundra had 3 so maybe Im just spoiled. The other compalint is the gas door is very close to the hood latch and they feel the same so i sometimes pop the hood when all I want to do is pop the gas cap door. the build is execptional a nice solid ride. I would recommend this to anyone that is looking for a great suv.

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  We love it - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By jonbassman - October 4 - 2:00 am

  we leased a 04 SR5 4WD 4runner and my wife and i just love it. we miss the low end torque of our 00 tundra but our 4runner is so much smoother and quieter than our previous truck. great space and lots of legroom in the back. get the sr5 instead of the limited and youll save thousands.

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  Wish Id gotten the X-3 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By blade - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Dont see how it gets a high rating. Ergonomics are atrocious, fuel milage is awful, power steering grabs at low speed. Easy to lock yourself out or in as the case maybe. On 04 back quarter panel looks like its falling off and these big prongs stick out the back, no obvious utlitiy. Power outside mirrors are constantly fogged up rendering them useless, tried RainX to no avail.