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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  Super Buy - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By HappyAgain - October 31 - 8:40 pm

  I bought this after owning a Highlander 4 cyl. for 18 months. Wish I had bought the 4Runner 1st. This is a super buy. I am a toyota believer now. This is so much more vehicle for the money than the highlander was. I am really pleased.

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  LTD 4WD 4RUNNER - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike Kanzer - October 29 - 6:43 pm

  I traded in a Lexus ES 300 for my new 4Runner and I get almost as good gas mileage with the SUV (16-16.5 city) as I did with the lexus (17). The 4 runner drives beautifully and is well made.

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  Loyal Toyota owner - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rivka - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This is my 4th Toyota and for the most part, Ive been pleased. Unfortunately though, at 100K, it is looking like I may have to replace the transmission. It is popping out of 3rd and wont go into 4th. Im dissappointed in the quality of this particular Toyota although Im the second owner. The rear window defrost has stopped working. Other than that, I love my 4runner, its gotten me up the hill to snowboard, hauls all the camping gear, the kayak, the house stuff, the friends. Its been my dream car for quite awhile.

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  Head Gasket Problems - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By booma - October 27 - 10:00 am

  My 4runner has been a sweet/sour experience. I like the look, offroad capability. However it blew a head gasket and toyota refused to replace it saying it was not the right vin #. Most of that years 4runners were recalled but for some reason they determined that mine was not one of them. They know they have a problem and wont own up to it. I will never buy another Toyota vehicle and if you value customer service i suggest you look elswhere to purchase your vehicle.

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  Best Driving SUV on the market - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Marlin Headley - October 27 - 10:00 am

  By far the best looking and best driving SUV I test drove

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  Very Happy 4runner Owner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Smart buy - October 27 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. I looked at everything b4 making my decision and am convinced I made the right one. I bought the silver with grey leather. All options except navigation-dont wish I had it. I am very surprised I dont see more on the road, but not disappointed.

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  A Great Choice!! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Vinny Turner - October 26 - 3:40 pm

  After driving this for three weeks, Im am soooo happy that I purchased this vehicle. Smooth and comfortable ride for an SUV. The V6 provides plenty of power and the gas mileage is better than I expected. Plenty of leg room for both the front and back seats (Im 65"), though the headroom could be a tiny bit higher. Quiet ride and responsive steering. Easy access to all instrument controls. This is the first imported car Ive ever owned and I should have gone import many years sooner. My 2000 Ford Explorer was a headache from day one! Other than buying a Corvette in the future, Ill never buy American again. Toyota will have a customer for life!

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  So Close - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4Runner - October 22 - 3:16 am

  2700 miles and looking forward to trading it in. Good looking basic transportation. Unable to get side curtain airbags, daytime running lights, sunroof, 4x4, 3rd row seats in CA. Told these safety features weren’t necessary. In CO could get side curtain airbags,day time running lights,3rd row seats w/o sunroof. Opted for sunroof, 3rd row only good for midgets. 10 year old Discovery handled better in tight fast paced LA traffic. 4Runner feels unsure and at times throws a few surprises driving at higher speeds. I never know how the vehicle is going to react to various road condition at freeway speeds. This is the first vehicle I’ve had this problem with.

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  I Love My 4-Runner - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bob B - October 19 - 7:26 am

  This has been my 3rd 4-Runner, and the best of the best. I have over 70,000 miles on it and have found nothing wrong. It gets used off road a fair amount and it still as tight as if it were new. One thing I have found about 4-Runners, they are very sensitive to kind of off road tires and vibrations caused by some tread designs.

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  2004 4Runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By SMOOTHIE - October 17 - 2:03 pm

  Purchased RW drive SR5 09/03 and have driven approx. 17000. This is an exceptionally tight vehicle. Never as much as a slight rattle over very rough roads. Very stylish desing. A lot of second looks from other drivers.