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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  Cherry 03 V8 4Runner LTD - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Patrick McHugh - January 13 - 12:53 pm

  4Runner well built in Japan, plenty of power with V8 engine, 5,000lbs towing, scrupulously maintained, mobile 1 oil changed every 3,000 miles. Very low mileage as owner working outside of country half time since purchase. Performed very well on cross country trip. A pleasure to drive, interior in perfect condition, has nav system, am/fm. Perfect size to negotiate narrow road and trails. Any bigger vehicle loses utility. Back country vehicle of choice, beats out rangerover, hummer, etc.

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  2003 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By rstebie - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Great improvement over the 97 I traded in. Love the V8. Wonderful features inside. This car is loaded with goodies I didnt know it had until I had it a few days. The price was about the same as the 97 and it is three times the truck. I hate to call it a truck it has such a great ride. Cant beat the Toyota, Ive had 8 Toyotas sence 1989 and the trade in value cant be beat

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  Best Buy By Far - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By childr - January 11 - 2:00 am

  I drove every mid-size SUV on the market and none could really compete up to the level of the 4 Runner. Great looks and the muscle of a full-size SUV. Im not real fond of the dash, the Highlander and Montero have a much nicer look, but it stops right there. The ride and handling cannot be beat. Very comfortable around the city or on a long drive. Power that WILL put you back in your seat. If your looking for a mid-size SUV this one cant be beat!

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  Good Truck - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Bobby - January 10 - 5:50 pm

  This truck is fun to drive with the tented windows it is a little easier to cool than most I have driven the price of gasoline does not make me stay home any more and I really like the red color with gray interior

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  So far so good - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Not too bad - January 9 - 4:30 pm

  Very nice ride with good handling, acceleration, comfort, smooth ride for body on frame solid rear axle vehicle. Wont let you forget its a truck, but thats what I bought it for. A little too much "gear picking" with v6 on steep grades. Engine has slight ticking sound (most Toyotas seem too, but disconcerting, probably timing chain instead of belt causes this) which is bothersome but engine runs fine. Have no real gripes, purchased the vehicle with just >30k miles and it feels like the brand new 07 model I test drove. I expect many more years out of this vehicle, although maintenance looks to be expensive. Wish v6 models had an external tranny cooler at least offered as an option.

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  Luvin my 4runner - 1998 Toyota 4Runner
  By Cheasapeake - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I have a 4cyl with a 5 speed manual transmission. This allows for a nice mix of acceptable power (no towing) and great fuel economy. 18-20 mpg around town 25 mpg highway. (10 mpg in 4wd) The next problem I have with this truck will be the first!

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  1999 4Runner SR5 - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By jmel - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding. We purchased the SR5 for my wife, and replaced the cloth seating with after market leather that looks and feels like the factory installed Leather on the 4Runner Limited. We also added a 2 stage heating element to the drivers seat for those cold winter days. Nice!

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  Excellent SUV - 2007 Toyota 4Runner
  By WMLA - January 1 - 1:10 pm

  I couldnt be more happy with my choice. The 4Runner rides so well. It is so quiet and smooth and "Lexus like." It seems like a luxury SUV. No problems. Best car/SUV I have ever had. No issues, problems or complaints. Engine is very powerful. Maybe, they can make it even more powerful and with even better gas mileage. Heres hoping for miracle technology.

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  Great ride, but missing a few features - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jason A - January 1 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 03 Grey Mica 4runner now for about 3 months and I have really enjoyed it. I have always been a car person but the new 4runner caught my eye so I decided to take the plunge. I dont have any regrets. The truck is remarkably smooth and quiet and the gas mileage is good for an SUV with a V-8. The Navigation is a nice feature and great to have on road trips.

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  2003 4Runner after 6 years of ownership - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Steve - December 30 - 1:56 am

  Overall Ive liked the truck. I have close to 100K miles now and have taken good care of it. It still looks like a new truck when I get it all cleaned up which I think is due to the quality of paint and components used. Ive been disappointed by the reliability. Among those things gone wrong are: AC compressor clutch relay, Heated mirrors dont work, Lights in several areas of the dash dont work, Front brake calipers froze up. Had to be replaced Transmission or rear end has a whine that Im afraid is the beginning of a big bill. Would I buy again? Maybe, but I would want to look at other trucks first. The harsh ride of the vehicle tends to make those sitting in the rear get car sick.