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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  First-time Toyota Owners - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ambys Owner - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This is our first Toyota and we love it! For an SUV, it handles very well and were impressed by the gas milage it gets - for this V8, we average about 19/20 mpg. Our previous SUV was a GMC Jimmy and there is no comparison.

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  GREAT CAR - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By xkrinkles - May 22 - 2:00 am

  GREAT CAR, NO PROBLEMS, DROVE TO FLORIDA FROM CHICAGO IN COMFORT,THE RIDE AND HANDLING ARE QUICK AND FIRM

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  No Regrets - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Scott C - May 20 - 8:00 am

  Just traded in my 01 4Runner for the 05 4Runner. Had serious reservations about releasing my old 4Runner. I loved it but needed 4WD. I test drove the Pathfinder and Honda Pilot. Both were not as fun to drive as my old 4Runner. Since my wife has a Landcruiser, I didnt need the V8 4Runner but the price was less than V6 (with rebates and dealer incentives),so I bought the 05 4WD V8 instead. This SUV is better in every way compared to my old 4Runner. It has effortless power and super smooth ride. As with my old 4Runner, the steering and braking is so much better than competition. The drive train feels better than the Landcruiser as well. The 4WD V8 4Runner is essentially the Landcruiser Prado

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  Almost perfect! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By AntGut - May 11 - 10:00 am

  After weeks of research, and several test-drives, I found the 4Runner to be the best overall vehicle for my budget. This truck kicks serious butt and the price is very reasonable. Its great to look at, in and out, and the engine performance is amazing. The only drawback is the gas mileage! Beware!!

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  The Best Yet! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By ckon - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Ive had one of each of the four generations of 4Runner and this is the best yet. So far it had exceeded the other three in every category except poddibly exterior style. For my use, it does everything very well.

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  4Running to the hills - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By NWSkiBum - May 8 - 3:56 am

  Wow! I tested everything (Pilot, Element, Outback, Pathfinder, X3, Explorer), read just about anything I could get my eyes on about mid-sized SUVs, and nothing could beat the 4Runner. Comfort, drivability, looks, price, and overall value - it just really offers the best of on-road and off-road performance. The first week I owned the car I took it on a three hour ski trip through two mountain passes in harsh winter driving conditions. It performed effortlessly in the snow and ice and quite frankly, turned what would have normally been a pretty stressful drive into a fun one! The 4WD and traction system are fantastic.

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  Nice ride - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By wally - May 3 - 5:06 am

  Exceptional vehicle, V8, good mileage and performance. comfortable, smooth, quiet.

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  Pleasant Compromise - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rod - May 2 - 12:36 pm

  Overall quality of 4Runner is great. After 1K miles, gas mileage with mixed driving, mostly side roads is 19.5 to 20.2 MPG. Gas mileage on road trip, mostly turnpike, averaging 75 to 80 mph, was 19.2 MPG. Ride is smooth but has a slight truck bounce when driving over concrete washboard sections of highway. Visibility great. Hauled an interior 80" door in the cargo area. Have 72" or so clearance in cargo area after folding 2nd row seats flat.

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  Love for life - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4runner4life - May 2 - 7:36 am

  So far, so good!! This is the most comfortable SUV I have ever been in. I love the ride. It doesnt feel like a truck anymore. I take mine off- roading, on the highway, and grocery- grabbing. The rear window roll down access is great. When I out of the store with a couple of bags of groceries, I hit the key fob button to drop the window, walk up, and deposit the bags into the back without setting the bags down to open a door!! As far as I am aware, this is the only SUV to have this. The rest flip up, etc.

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  I wish I had It Back - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By happywiththetoy - May 2 - 2:10 am

  My Toyota was one of the safest on the highway. Involved in a major accident on 1/23/09. If I had been driving many other vehicles I would not be alive to write this review! Unfortunately, my Toyota was totaled, but I was not. I enjoyed just about everything about my 4Runner. I just wish I had it back. Dont know that Ill ever be able to replace it.