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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  This Truck Smells!!! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By aimalah - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I used to own a 99 4-Runner and it was the best truck I ever had. I traded that one in for the 2003 and what a mistake! The car smells like rotton eggs when I step on the gas. They claimn its the gas in the 2003 vehicles. I doubt it. My husband drives a 2003 Mercedes and he has no smell. I tried the Lemon Law and Arbitration. No luck and now I am stuck. Would never buy another Toyota again. I should have kept my 99 4- Runner. Best truck in the world.

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  Car has had many repairs less than 5k mi - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By david wood - January 22 - 5:20 pm

  Bought new 2005 4Runner 12/5 drove it home and the front-end alignment was off. Has rattle nose in front-end suspension (yet to be resolved), had car back to dealer three times. Fan belts made squealing nose. Dealer said they were glazed and replaced them at 2k mi. At 4k mi. serpentine belt made loud clicking nose. Dealer replaced, said it had a cracked belt. 7k mi. transmission makes a creaking noise when shifting between drive and reverse. Dealer said the noise is normal. When parked on a hill it gets worse and sounds like grinding a 5 speed (it is an automatic transmission). This is my second 4Runner the 2002 I traded was a great car. 85k mi. The power antenna motor went. Sorry I traded it in.

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  Highly overrated - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By jose65 - December 6 - 9:08 pm

  in cold climate, it takes unreasonably long for the engine to get into normal operating range. (about 8 miles of driving) the interior heater is weak even at the max and takes very long to warm up the interior. Suspension is hard when driving over bumps and potholes, not good for the spine running boards are useless for a taller person as they are in the way front dives and rear moves up under hard breaking engine is loud and sounds rough around 2500rpm sheet metal is very thin, waves can be seen on the hood when going through car wash dryer

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  User Unfriendly - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ron - November 29 - 8:16 pm

  We selected the 4Runner based on headroom, oh well, it fooled me. The drivers side is vertically adjustable and during the test drive it seemed to be just marginal. Im not real big but at 61" after purchasing the vehicle for my wife I found that the passengers seat is too restrictive to bring my head along for the ride unless the seat is reclined. With the unconventional layout of the controls as an occasional user I find myself stopping on the side of the road to find things. Fuel economy is marginal at best when the cost of premium is factored (didnt know that at time of purchase). It gets really bad when towing, at 8 mpg towing 4000 lbs that about 30% more expensive than my club cab 5.9L Ram.

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  Reliablility... little else - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By pjcrage - August 19 - 8:57 pm

  Toyota=Reliability in my experience and that is why I bought this truck. Now after 16 months and 45k here is the verdict.... Reliable..so far no major issues Comfort - little Performance - well underpowered but gets from point A to B Styling - beautiy is in the eye of the beholder..its ok for me Build quality - tinny construction, lotsa squeaks Fun to drive - Toyota? no, just FUNctional to drive Overall value - ok to me since it seems to be accomplishing the objective i set out to achieve - reliability

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  MY TOYOTA :: Can you say Lemon! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve Burleson - August 6 - 10:00 am

  1.The tires weights were 90 degrees off of balance and the weights were the wrong size on those tires. 2.Wind noise in the front driver side door (somewhere) 3.When I apply the brakes while driving the vehicle will sometimes pull severly to the right or left as if the brakes are not properly adjusted or the alignment. 4.Engine tapping (lifter noise) coming from the right front that is significant but seems to somewhat diminish goes after the engine is warmed up. 5.CD player would not work without CDs skipping. Dealer of course says everything is perfect, noting the dealer did change out the CD player.

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  2001 4RUNNER FRAME CORROSION - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By maine4runner - August 6 - 7:36 am

  Been a good vehicle to date, but the latest issue is major. Frame corrosion by muffler which will not pass inspection without getting fixed. This is at 112K miles and 11 years. Beside the chrome bumpers which I just replaced, the rest of the car is perfect. Toyota response is a case #, and will not tell me how many cases have been reported. The local dealer has had a few come in with the same issue. Searching the internet, I find many people with similiar issues. Anybody having similiar experiance.

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  Not the perfect SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By tom bracco - May 29 - 7:43 am

  While this was my 2nd 4Runner and vastly improved over the previous iteration I found it NOT TO BE WITHOUT PROBLEMS. The heater went down in the coldest time last winter and took two weeks for repair parts to be installed.An ongoing broken seal in the windshield reservoir had to be replaced 3 times and a recall for some other problem. The worst ongoing problem this car suffers from is if you drive with the sunroof and rear window open (the only way you can avoid severe wind buffeting) fumes from the exhaust enter the vehicle and its disgusting to have to breath that in while you drive. Complaints to Toyota yielded no satisfaction. Its a REAL DESIGN FLAW that cannot be overcome!

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  Limited V6 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runnaway - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had this car for two weeks. The seats are comfortable, but Ive started to notice that the vehicle seems to lean a lot when cornering, causing me to lean a lot as well. I have an old 4Runner and never had that problem. Lots of wind noise, all around the windshield and especially around the side mirrors, even with all the windows shut. Luckily, the stereo sounds good -- better to drown out all that wind noise with. The plastic "bumpers" are dumb on a truck. Dont even think about bumping anything with them.

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  Slow & Steady - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By MikeInNNJ - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Very slow, poor fuel economy (14 mpg in mixed driving), not nimble, starts every time. Rust is a problem. Not a lot of legroom if your 6 or taller, good headroom though. I dont drive it everyday so I dont have big expectations for it other than running when I need it. Does well in the snow. The rating I gave it may be low, but I only need it to do a limited amount of things so the rating kinda reflects that as it might apply to a full time vehicle.