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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  4byToy - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By jcb - September 9 - 10:00 am

  My 6th Toyota. Just traded in a Tundra. Larry, you must have gotten yours from a chop shop. Theres no way you had that many problems. This vehicle is rock solid, though power seats and a 6 disc in-dash changer should be standard at this trim level. Smoothest V8 on the market, better than any luxury car. If you want the best 4W drivetrain on the market, this is your truck...not for the shopping mall like the rest.

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  Wow! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sac State - September 9 - 10:00 am

  Had a 02 4x4 Sport. The 03 4x4 Sport is a totally different animal, for the better! Build quality would lead you to believe you are in a Benz or BMW. V8 power is awesome and the ride is top notch.

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  First 4Runner - 2011 Toyota 4Runner
  By 78vette1 - September 9 - 8:06 am

  As this is my first 4Runner, I have been driving Toyotas since 1981. For dependability and reliability they are hard to beat. I wanted to drive the vehicle before I wrote my review so I could give my honest opinion and make a post for others as consumer reviews always help me in my purchasing decisions. I purchased a used 4runner in late December of 2013 with just under 17k miles.

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  Sweet SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By MarkinCT - September 4 - 10:00 am

  I have been loving my new 4Runner for 1200 miles so far. Averaging 17.4 mpg, but mostly stop and go. Hey, its a V8 so thats not bad. This truck looks hot, gets noticed. Build and materials appear premium to other makes. In terms of quality, I think this is like a slightly smaller version of the Land Cruiser at half the price. Interior is more refined that the Sequoia (which I strongly considered, but 4Runner was more bang for the buck). With the V8, it can out-perform most sedans when in a pinch. Comfortable passenger room. Nissan Pathfinder cannot match the 4Runner in any contest.

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  2003 4runner limited - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By nedjacob - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Very smooth ride, nice sound system. A great improvement.

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  Nice ride! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By dedhed - August 30 - 8:40 pm

  I traded in my 93 4-runner with 180k miles on a new 06. The 06 is averaging 19.6 mpg which is better than my old 93. The V8 has plenty of power to merge into traffic and pass when needed. The adjustable seat is very comfortable. The styling both in and out is eye-catching. I have had the truck for about a month now and honestly cant think of a negative thing to say about it. Toyota builds a quality product, and I will continue to drive them.

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  158,000 mile 4 runner - 1996 Toyota 4Runner
  By AAW - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Except for a head gasket recall paid for by Toyota this vehicle has been great. The rear seat is uncomfortable for adults & teens on long drives. Rear seat riders cause a harsh ride over bumps as well. With AC running gets 18/21 MPG. Without AC gets 19/24 MPG. No problem driving around in 20 inch snow. Pulls my 2,800 lb boat/trailer OK. Pleasure to drive. Dont like the unconventional tail lamp bulbs - (expensive at dealerships). Too bad Toyota hasnt got the Jade Green Metallic paint and good intruments on new 4runner models.

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  Drivers Seat Needs Work! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By lenripley - August 29 - 2:00 am

  The Drivers seat makes a clunking noise anytime you enter vehicle, hit a bump, or turn sharply. Dealer says this is the way it is. I dont believe it. If it is, there is a design flaw which needs to be resolved.

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  2004 Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition 2WD V8 - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By rsmith2 - August 29 - 2:00 am

  2004 low tire pressure indicator came on. Pressures checked 34-35 lbs. Called dealer service department. Following his directions, the indicator did NOT reset. The owners manual says system checks spare tire as well as the others. Another Toyota dealer said this was the 2nd 2004 4Runner they had seen with this problem. Explanation: tires are aired to 60 lbs. at the factory. Dealer make ready did NOT check the spare. The low tire pressure system also checks for HIGH tire pressure and/or pressure difference between the tires. To reset the indicator, hit the ODO/TRIP button until the mileage indicates, then hit RESET.

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  Cant Get Any Better! - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By cbchapman88 - August 26 - 8:23 pm

  I bought my 2006 4-Runner new in 2006, it is 2013 now and it has 121,000 miles. I could not bare to trade in my 4-Runner before it hit the 100,000 mile mark. It has been a spectacular vehicle in every way! 121K miles and not a single mechanical issue. I have done regular maintenance and used premium gasoline the entire 7 years that I have had it, and not a SINGLE mechanical issue. I have made several trips half-way across the country, including two moves, and it never let me down. Seven years later, and it still cleans up like a brand new car and still drives like one too. I am planning on keeping this vehicle for another 100K miles, then I will surely buy another 4-Runner.