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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  Stinkers - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By bic - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have a problem with exhaust fumes getting into the car under heavy excelleration or when towing. All windows up. Both the dealer and Toyota confirmed it and said it is the gas outside of California and the car is performing to its standards and they can not do anything. It smells like rotten eggs. Toyota corporate said too bad but it is my problem. Also dont expect to see the dash guages with sun glasses on.

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  New 2010 purchase - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By John in So Cal - July 14 - 11:23 am

  New Purchase in Silver with dark interior. Very solid, secure feeling when driving, smooth shifts, 8way speaker system has a monster bass, not a quick-like-a-bunny feeling when getting on it, but a steady comer. Good viewing, very comfortable cloth seats, excellent handsfree system, ipod plug in, shift handle. 4x2 purchase for the highways.

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  Great truck - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rossbo - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Just bought this truck a week ago and I love it. Was considering a 2002 Xterra, but the fact that the rear window goes down had me sold. Limited is great, love the factory chromes.

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  V-8 Sport - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Pat84 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Extremely quiet, well built vehicle. Comfortable on long trips trips to the beach to drive out right to the oceans edge and fish.

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  Great SUV!!! - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By wb07 - July 4 - 10:00 am

  I decided to sell my Mustang to get something I could drive 30,000 miles or more per year in snowy/rainy weather. I bought a 4Runner & loved it! It was fun to drive in all seasons; it was very reliable for my long commute; the highway visibility was SO much better than in my Mustang. In the snow, it was wonderful. I think there was one occasion all winter where I slid on an icy bridge, but overall, the push- button 4WD is great. Sadly, my 4Runner was recently totaled in an accident- not my fault. I plan to buy another one as soon as possible & I highly recommend a 4x4 LTD 4Runner to anyone who is looking for a sharp, reliable, fun SUV.

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  GREAT - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By polaco - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Its aLexus with a Toyota badge!!!

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  Awsome - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Glenn Panek - July 4 - 10:00 am

  Great a plesure to own and ride in it has never broke down on us

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  Reliable and Rugged 4WD - 1994 Toyota 4Runner
  By kb - July 4 - 1:36 am

  A very reliable and rugged 4WD truck. Great for crawling over rocks, fording water, and punching through 3 snow-drifts. Not so much fun on the freeway. This 4runner is definitely still a truck. No mechanical or electrical problems with the vehicle at all. I average 18mpg highway/city. Not bad mpg for a truck of its capabilities. This truck is very fun to drive off the pavement, and is very stable over ruff roads. On the freeway the weak engine and top-heavy weight distribution make it a little scary.

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  Starting to regret it - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Disappointed - July 3 - 3:06 pm

  Purchased in Jan. and loved it, but now its 12,000 miles later. Inside is very small, comfortable in the front seat means no leg room in the back. I am only 511" and I hit my head almost every time I get in. 3rd row seats create an even bigger blind spot. Seats aren’t too comfortable on long trips. Gas mileage is very poor when traveling at highway speeds. Its a nice SUV but not made for families, we wish we would have waited for the new Highlander.

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  4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By beatle - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle is better than I had anticipated. The ride, performance and mileage is great. Im a repeat Toyota owner and plan to remain loyal.