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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  Couldnt be better! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Yssisa - December 13 - 2:16 pm

  This car is amazing! Smooth rides, great handling, an all-a-round do everything car. Towing is exceptional (towed a 6x12 trailer for 2000 miles and didnt even notice it). Off road would be fun, but my wife wont let me take her car off road. I want another for myself. One person said the low-preasure light for the tire comes on. I found it to be the spare tire. All the other tires get checked and the spare gets forgotten. Toyota even has a sensor on the spare... way cool, but dont forget it or the light will bug you.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Ryan - December 12 - 12:50 am

  Toyota has made me very happy, The 4 Runner is the best vehicle I have ever driven, So many standard features without a large price tag. So many wonderful uses for the 4 Runner, Rugged yet very nice and elegant at the same time. Thank you Toyota for making my decision easy when purchasing a new SUV, the choice was very clear!

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  This ones a keeper - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By mshw777 - December 8 - 10:00 am

  After 5 years of ownership, I wouldnt trade this 98 4Runner for anything. The 150hp 4-cylinder performs pretty well; my 4Runner is equipped with the automatic transmission. The power option package I got is nice. The dependability and consistency in reliability amazes me! Ive purchased two other 2nd vehicles since then, but refused to trade my 4Runner in for those other vechicles. Overall, I love this truck.

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  My First Toyota - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Viper Pilot - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the 4Runner in Dec 02 when they first hit the local market. Thought it was a little pricy, but felt it was a good value based on other Toyota owners recommendations.It was exactly the right sized vehicle for my needs.It has good overall power and preformance from the 4.7 liter V-8.It also has an excellent, solid road feel. Steering, brakes, and handling are very good for an SUV. The only complains I have are terrible gas mileage (12.5 to 14 mpg!)and a slight vibration felt in the steering column and pedals under light acceleration. Service manager cant explain or get interested in finding the vibration. Overall a very satisfying vehicle.

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  Woods Review - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Wood__y - December 8 - 10:00 am

  My 2003 4WD V-8 4Runner Limited is far and away the BEST vehicle Ive EVER owned. Ive had great cars and SUVs in the past but my 4Runner leaves all the others in the dust. I wont hesitate to buy another one in the future.

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  This has all the marbles - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By doshiaa - December 8 - 10:00 am

  After doing, months of research on buying an SUV I finally decided to purchase 2003 V8 Limited 4Runner. This vehicle is exceptional in every possible manner; however Ill mention a couple of things that this vehicle could benefit from: 1. Add memory seats to driver side (most competitors offer this now days) 2. Add more storage bins Besides these, the SUV is fantastic and I highly recommend it.

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  I LOVE OUR 4RUNNER LIMITED - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By cbaumgar - December 8 - 8:50 am

  Weve had the truck for one week and have yet to take it off road, but were anxious to do so. It is appealing to the eye, gets good mileage for a vehicle of its size (averaging 20 mpg combined open freeway in the a.m. and stop & go in the evening). Interior and exterior appointments are excellent and well constructed.

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  Best Buy Ever - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner man - December 7 - 8:36 pm

  I bought my 4runner Limited 2wd certified vech, I have had this vech for six months, the more I drive it the more I like it. My Limited came with all the features, JBL sound system, Nav system, rear camera, driver and passenger air bags, sunroof, night time rear view mirror, compast, 17 inch rims, running (lit) boards. The ride is smooth and swift, runs on regular unleaded, gets 18mpg in the city and 24 on the hwy. I have put six thousands trouble free miles on this vech, maints is low change the oil and drive, I live in the land of Cars Los Angeles, You name it we drive it and still prefer my 4runner Limited because it fits in every where from Beverly Hills to beaches of Malibu.

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  Great Ski and Tow Vehicle - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Seattle Native - December 7 - 4:20 am

  Bought this used with 36k miles. Have always wanted a 4Runner from when they were first introduced. Excellent reliability and decent mileage. Bought a 20 boat last summer and with the trailer it weighs about 4200 lbs. The 4Runner tows the boat just fine and handles like a champ! Highly recommended for everyone. Also handles great in the snow and rain.

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  Excellent SUV - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By 6paul11 - December 5 - 2:02 am

  The 2001 4Runner is an outstanding SUV. Reliable, excellent in bad weather, and built to last through the apocalypse. Ever seen the Top Gear episode with the indestructable Toyota? This is the cousin of the Hilux, the car featured in that show. Nothing can take this beast down. Problems are few and far between. 140,000 miles of service life and many more to go.