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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  Reformed Toyota Buyer - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Run Away - April 10 - 10:00 am

  Mine needed an engine rebuild with less than 60,000 miles on it. The car was gently driven and well-maintained, using only synthetic oil. I was on a road trip, seven months pregnant, and I got stuck 750 miles from home with few options. The dealership charged me $5500 to replace the short block - $4000 in parts alone. There is more to say about the conduct of the dealer, but I dont have the space. When I called Toyota to complain, the company told me I was welcome to take my business elsewhere. Toyota would not stand by its product and did not care about how the dealership treated me. I have owned Toyotas all of my life but will never buy another.

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  SR5 V8 4WD Winner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By glider4 - April 10 - 10:00 am

  My first drive in this great SUV was a 1,300 mile trek across Oregon, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming backroads. The V-8 delivers amazing pick-up. Handling a bit soft but acceptable. This is my 28th car in 34 years and is #2 on my list of best ever - the 1969 Camaro Z/28 is still #1.

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  Love, love, my 4runner early xmas gift! - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By CJM - April 8 - 6:03 pm

  I was patiently waiting for my 4 runner for 2 months and finally it arrived in December. Loved everything about it even my baby boy calls it mommys boom boom. Everything about it is awesome. Drives smoothly, handles turns well, and has a kick when you want power. Just couldnt wait for the TRAIL or limited models to come in so we got the SR5 instead.

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  4wd v6 Sport 2008 - 2008 Toyota 4Runner
  By breakfree40 - April 8 - 6:10 am

  Excellent vehicle. Low routine maintenance costs. Will drive anywhere you point the wheels. 4WD system is very advanced, v6 engine is adequate for all but the heavy towing.

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  Awesome Used SUV - 1997 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve Kania - April 6 - 12:16 pm

  Outstanding value through and through! Runs and looks great! Extremely durable and reliable and gets much better gas mileage than I thought it would. Have over 150,000 miles on it and it looks like itll go another 150,000!

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  Great Vehicle - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Gregory J Strzelecki - April 3 - 11:10 pm

  I love this vehicle. I have owned it for 8 years. I bought it used with 90,000 miles. Other then oil changes this vehicle is maintenance free. Now I have 230,000 miles and I have had to change somethings. Like rack and pinion bushings, shocks and struts, sway bar bushings, breaks. The most expensive part that needed to be changed was the fly wheel but that was over 5 years ago. the 4 wheel drive options are great i never get stuck in the mud or snow. I think I will be driving this vehicle for several more years to come. There is a 500000 mile club for 4 Runners. that is Amazing. By Gregory J Strzelecki

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  After one year, love it as much as the day I bought it. - 2013 Toyota 4Runner
  By yngturk - March 30 - 3:30 am

  An extremely solid, truck-based SUV. Purchased new in 2013. After 13-months now has 20k miles and its only been to the shop for oil changes. Ride is better than most trucks, but the build is solid and body stiffness is superb. Seats are quite comfortable, as are heater/AC and the overall ride. My wife -- the ultimate judge of comfort, with a bad back -- has no problem taking road trips in this vehicle. I mostly use this as a commuter vehicle, but occasionally haul stuff or go camping off-road. Average 21.3 MPG in combo city/highway. Engine is more than adequate. Its the perfect vehicle for my needs. A well-engineered, reliable ride.

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  I Love my 4Runner! Good Buy! - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By etapucu - March 27 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I were looking a several SUVs from many different manufactures. The 4Runner really caught our eye and hearts. We now have 6000mi and we are completely happy with our choice. The V6 packs quite a punch, the roominess is spectacular, and the 4x4 is awesome. By far the feature, that most impressed us is the GAS milage, we easily get 17- 18MPG in the CITY and about 22-23MPG on the highway. This SUV is definitely a good buy, with no regrets what so ever.

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  One great SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By educator - March 27 - 10:00 am

  I recently bought my 4Runner and its one of the best purchases Ive ever made. I recently owned a Range Rover and this 4Runner beats the ride in more ways than one. If you considering buying a 2003 4Runner, stop your search here and go test drive one. Youll be driving it home before you leave the dealership.

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  almost perfect - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By carmann - March 26 - 2:16 pm

  New model is refined and roomy. 4 litre engine puts out V-8 power with V- 6 econony. Excellent towing - ignore the new rating - this SUV will tow 7,000 pounds with ease. Very useful sliding cargo floor, and backup warning device is a welcome feature. Only gripe is the silver painted plastic interior trim parts that easily scratch and cannot be easily fixed. Flawless build quality - typical Toyota. This SUV is in a class by itself. It doesnt pretend to be a crossover - it is a REAL full framed rear-wheel drive heavy duty SUV. It is like having a 7/8 scale Tahoe with a big V6 motor.