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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  Bulit proof SR 5 - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By JD - July 14 - 11:50 am

  I bought this car new early in 1997. Has 166,000 miles still has original rear brakes and shocks/ struts. Replaced right front wheel bearing at 160,000 miles. Interior and paint is in excellent shape except for minor hail damage thanks to spring Texas storms. Still drives like new, 20 mpg city, 23 to 26 mpg highway. The mechanic that works on my car has a customer with one of these with 470,000 miles on it still going strong. Mechanic told me to never sell this car, this model 4-runner is the best toyota made. Best car I have ever owned, never breaks and has never let me down.

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  Absolutely love my new 4Runner - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By toyjust1010 - July 13 - 3:51 am

  I purchased my first Toyota 4Runner last week and have been amazed ever since. I wanted one since 2005. MPG with first tank was 20, after first fill up - 22 mpg. Fantastic for the size vehicle...considering I was only getting 24-26 mpg out of my Nissan Rogue that I traded. Plenty of room for all my friends.

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  Great SUV!! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Calidude - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This SUV is fantastic! It looks great and the interior looks futuristic. They should make the rear window roll up with the keyless but I love this SUV! You cant beat the looks and the build quality. This SUV has great pickup too - its pretty quick. Stock Sound system is decent too.

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  2004 SR5 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By KK - July 9 - 5:36 pm

  This is my first Toyota, owning mostly american cars/suvs in the past 30 years. I can say I am pleased with the 4runner overall, only having the most common complaint a loose driver seat. I even checked the 2005 and 2006 and its true, "they all do that". Just grab the drivers seat where your thigh would go and rock it back and forth. Toyota did replaced the seat, but had no change. I would buy this SUV again, but may lean towards the limited model or at least electric seats.

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  Like riding on air - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By rodney - July 9 - 1:30 pm

  I have been more than pleased with the comfortable ride provided by my 4Runner. This is by far the most comfortable ride I have experienced from any vehicle I have ever owned. The brakes are a bit nimble, but other than that the vehicle is like riding on air. There is very little noise from exterior extremities, with the exception of a heavy rain. Very little noise, and handles potholes better than I expected.

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  Mechanically excellent "but" - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sisu - July 8 - 10:00 am

  4runners have an excellent rep. If you buy one and dont need 4wd, whats the purpose? We drive this car on the beach and in snow. Absolutely no problem, never. == (Cont). to get out of 4wd low. I have the six cylinder and it is a good engine around town or down the road. In my opinion it lacks a little power. If you have 4 men and bags and you want to engage highway traffic you need to stomp on it. I would not trailer anything heavy unless it is very local travel. The V8 maybe be a better option you be the judge. The seat is good if you are a normal size man, for me it doesnt provide enough support in the right places for a LONG trip. The AM radio is terrible - static.

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  Used 4Runner Review - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Douglas Lemmo - July 7 - 2:43 pm

  In the years I have owned it, it has run perfectly. The only parts that have failed have been the 2 oxygen sensors which were expensive to repair. There was one recall in which they replaced front end parts. Gas mileage is consistently at 20 mpg in mixed driving. It has a slightly rough ride which is characteristic of light pickup trucks.

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  Second 4Runner - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ian - July 7 - 9:06 am

  After 256,000 trouble free miles, it was time to replace our 98 4Runner Ltd 4WD with a slightly used 2008 SR5 4WD model. We are very happy with the 08 4Runners comfort and style. Havent taken it far off-road yet but the South Texas "wet season" is in full force and all of the techy new traction controls, hill assist, and other systems will soon get put through their paces. My only complaint is that the newer Runner seems almost too civilized. Gone are the metal chrome bumpers and the skid plates seem wimpy. Looked at a FJ Cruiser but it had too many blind spots and horrible turning radius.

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  Not for gravel roads - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Finn - July 6 - 1:06 pm

  We purchased this vehicle because we live in the mountains and need a lot of ground clearance and off road handling. The only area in which this car has disappointed me is in its off road handling, which unfortunately in our situation, is a huge chunk of time. When we purchased this vehicle we were aware of its "truck like chassis" but this car is downright scary to drive on our gravel (sometime washboard) roads. Im not going any faster than 20-25 miles per hour, usually less. This car fish tails or skids over the slightest washboard. I have talked to other people in this area with the same problem.

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  Quality SUV with a great ride - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By JLKent - July 5 - 4:16 pm

  After one year of ownership I thought it good to provide a review. My 4Runner has been one of the best car purchases to date. After two cross country road trips my family loves this SUV. The ride and performance is exceptional given the size and weight - it drives like a vehicle half the size. V8 Power is awesome and provides excellent acceleration and power with reasonable MPG (18-20 MPG).