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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  1999 Toyota 4Runner - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Dgaines - April 25 - 10:00 am

  A rough yet elegant SUV! Plenty of cargo space and a nice smooth ride! Great all around vehicle! My dream machine…I love it!

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  I did the research for you-buy it! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By CO Bobby - April 24 - 12:53 am

  I spent 4 months researching a new vehicle to replace a 1998 Jeep Wrangler. Main focus was quality and reliability. The 2005 met the above criteria as well as cost and style. Name and mid-size SUV-I drove it and spent countless hours on the net reviewing it. The 4Runner is simply the best valued mid-size SUV out there. Its got great style, handles well, has great base features and is just plain fun to drive. Dont waste your time-pick a color and take it home.

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  Immortal - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Woods Browder - April 23 - 8:27 pm

  This car is unstoppable! Whether its the road, rain, snow, mud, this car can go through anything. This 4wd 4Runner runs brand new

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  Great SUV - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jay - April 22 - 6:10 pm

  4 Runner was delivered the day before blizzard hit New York. All features really help drive the SUV in the snow, we tested it in various parking lots and rear wheel slippage is greatly reduced. My wife loves it, very roomy 1st and 2nd row. Only have 250 miles on it and averaging 15 MPG, hope it goes up.

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  Great Truck - 2002 Toyota 4Runner
  By Richard - April 22 - 12:06 pm

  I was very upset with Toyota because I found out after purchasing my 95 4Runner with the 3.0 that there was a known problem with head gaskets but they did not recall for that year. They made up for it with my 2002. Toyota gave me more than I expected for my trade (even knowing the head gaskets were about to go) and sold this one to me at low book. Its been a great truck. Rides great, fun off-road, reliable. Im going to lift this baby up, add bigger tires, and give myself more clearance since it climbs very well over rocks and boulders. My 15 year old is waiting for me to give it to him when he turns 16. Too bad, so sad. Hell have to buy his own. Im keeping mine.

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  2008 4Runner V8 4X4 - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By kalicat - April 21 - 8:15 pm

  I bought it brand new and in a couple of months it will be 4 years old. 57K miles on it. I have never had a single mechanical issue with it. I put the front end leveling kit on it, and larger tires w/after market rims - but the engine is stock. My only complaint is the gas mileage! Even driving like an old lady, 95% highway mileage (its my commuter car now) I only get 17 mpg. Friends that have the v6 said they get the same. Dealer says they will give me 22,500 if I trade it in (decided not to anyway) Great resale! Overall, am very happy with it!

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  The best what can I say - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By mishdoob - April 19 - 10:00 am

  I had a Dodge before this. It had nothing but problems. I have had none with the vehicle.

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  SR5 4WD Toyota 4Runner - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bill - April 18 - 11:30 am

  One of the best vehicles I have ever owned. Really nice ride, excellent quality, the only complaint is the brake being too close to the accelerator.

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  Love the 4Runner - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By dan - April 14 - 3:50 am

  2005 Limited 4wd 4Runner V8. I bought the 4Runner new and I have averaged about 17500 miles per year. The 4Runner has exceeded my expectations. From the snow and ice in D.C. to the beaches of Florida outstanding in every area. I have made a number of cross country trips and of course plenty of running around town with exceptional performance. This is my second 4Runner and i have found the improvements numerous. The exterior is eyecatching and clean, rugged yet sleek, not too big and not too small. The interior is vastly improved. Ergonomic controls, dual climate control, heated seats, roomy comfortable, quality leather seats, great sound system and nav system, backup camera. Highly recommend.

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  Bombproof, useful, reliable truck. - 2001 Toyota 4Runner
  By Chris - April 13 - 7:58 pm

  I bought one as a second vehicle in 2014 with 200k on the odometer after looking around Craigslist for several weeks and inspecting a handful of 3rd generation 4Runners. After finding the cleanest single-owner vehicle with service records, I bought it for $5500 and it now has just over 210,000 on it. Ive done very little to it, except drive it on weekends, feed its rather thirsty appetite for gas, change the oil annually, and keep it clean. One notable minor repair has been made: Check-Engine light was on when I bought it and couldnt pass emissions as it were, so I pulled the code and traced it to a faulty charcoal canister near the fuel tank. I found a used one on an auto parts salvage website for $95 and replaced it myself in 2 hours, cleared the code, and saved about $600 from going to a mechanic for a new part. Another minor modification has been made: I added a transmission oil cooler outside the radiator to bypass the internal oil cooler inside the radiator. It is a known and well-documented risk that the internal cooler is prone to corrosion and eventually leaking engine coolant into the transmission oil, thus ruining the transmission. Both of these jobs were clearly explained in numerous Toyota forums and YouTube videos. Overall, the internet forums have thousands of posts pertaining to these trucks and the support community of fellow owners is fantastic. This vehicle is a truck and it rides like one. Interior is basic and functional, but even after 16 years, everything works and nothing doesnt. It is by far the most reliable and well-made vehicle Ive owned. I could sell it tomorrow for exactly what I paid for it. How many other vehicles could you say that about?