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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  No Complaints - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By No Complaints - May 15 - 3:40 pm

  I purchased my 2003 4Runner SR5 V8 with 16,000 miles. It now has 105,000 miles and every mile has been a pleasure. This vehicle has only required normal maintenance. I have had no major problems or expenses. I will probably keep it until it turns 200,000 miles and still enjoy it. The V8 is silky smooth, the transmission is solid and trustworthy and this model still looks good.

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  Too many problems - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By slowry88 - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Several minor problems and one major problem (Head Gaskets). The wheels need balancing often, radiator leaked, minor electrical problems, shocks are going. These were all minor compared to the head gaskets that blew with only 80,000 miles on the car. The Toyota service center told me that this was "high milage." Thats funny, their sales staff contend that the car should run to 200k. Total cost of repair will exceed $2000.

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  Excellent! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Mike - May 14 - 1:16 am

  I leased my runner in early 2005 and LOVE it. Great ride, stylish interior, good stereo, low noise.

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  The best SUV - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By CEL - May 13 - 2:10 pm

  You can spend more but you wont get more than this SUV. Its top shelf from stem to stern. The 270 hp V8 is silky smooth with power to spare. Mileage has averaged 18.2 for the past several months. You will never know youre driving a 4300 lb vehicle if you get the optional suspension. I compared every SUV in the 40 to 55 k range and IMHO this was best. Its equal to Lexus but is 10 grand cheaper. The updated features are endless including a factory 110 v inverter to run your lap top on the road. Before you buy anything else test drive this SUV... you wont be disappointed. Its Toyotas best SUV ever............

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  Best Car I have ever owned - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By Eric - May 11 - 2:53 pm

  I have driven this salsa red 4Runner for nearly two years and am delighted with it. I bought it mainly to take down rough forest roads to go camping in Arizona. My circumstances changed when I ended up making a fast trip to Alaska in late winter for a new job, and while the mileage took a dive operating at high speeds, windy conditions, and heavily loaded, it performed flawlessly en route north. It is a striking looking vehicle.

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  Awesome SUV. Best in class by far - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bigdaddydude - May 9 - 11:23 pm

  This SUV is my 2nd 4Runner and they just keep getting better. I LOVE the quality and feel of the leather, it is 10 times better than cloth. The heated seats are a really cool, or should I say hot feature! Although my car-loving son uses them more than I do, they are still an excellent touch on frosty mornings. This car has a punchy V6 that provides plenty of power. The stereo sounds like music from heaven and I also like the 6-disc CD changer, I also enjoy this cars ULTRA-quiet cabin and soft ride and yet you can still feel the road. I am in love with this car and will continue to buy them untill a better car comes out (which will probably not happen).

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  Solid Vehicle - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By olzama13 - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Good solid vehicle 4wd is outstanding. I put a perfomance air intake in it and the fuel economy is awesome now and the vehicle have more pick up and go.

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  Grab One! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Kingtj4 - May 9 - 10:00 am

  A month an a half into ownership and I love this truck. A great redesign. It has it all for 4 x 4, highway, and around town driving. Put in traditional Toyota quality and reliability and you have a winner. Ill own this for a long time!

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  Great Peformance SUV Buy - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By 4FUNNER - May 9 - 10:00 am

  Value / Quality / Peformance / Function ENOUGH SAID ! Our 2nd Runner.

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  2010 4 Runner missing some past plusses - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By mel-ind - May 6 - 1:03 pm

  I drove my 2002 4Runner into the ground and bought a 2010 4WD. After a few thousand winter miles in the Rockies I got a better ride and better gas mileage than the 02. XM radio and MP3 input are nice. But there are minuses. The rear window gets dirty fast. The overhanging "spoiler" creates a vacuum in the rear that sucks dirt off the road (the 02 has a deflector that pushes clean air down over the window). The rear wiper covers only half the window and you cant clean the window near the spoiler with a gas station squeegee. The interior is wider, more passenger leg room in back. But center console is a big bucket where crap gets lost. Kept the 02.