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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  Bigger and better mileage - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Skiller - December 9 - 12:33 am

  I traded up from 97 4 runner, and this Bigger 04 has extra seating, wider interior, larger engine, and the mileage is better than the smaller V-6 from 1997! I average 20 city, and 22- 24 on road! Great large size 4 runner, but I miss the sport car fell of the smaller body! I find the heat and air are not evenly distributed, so that needs to be fixed by Toyota. Overall still a stylish SUV than grabs your attention, very quiet ride, nice power curve for towing.

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  Not as good as past models. - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By NJGirl - December 7 - 9:00 pm

  This is my third 4Runner 1996, 2004 and 2010. I think that as time goes by Toyota is not living up to the quality that I am used too. By far the 1996 was the best vehicle. I do not like the doors unlocking on the 2010 as soon as the car is in park. I drive by myself long distance and I hate the fact that the doors automatically open. Also not happy about the running boards. I am 52" for crying out loud it is a challenge to get into the vehicle. I wont put anything on the truck unless it is a certified Toyota part. Interior has its problems the head rest doesnt lock into place and that becomes annoying. Oh yeah one more thing the horn on the 2010 is like a horn that belongs on Tercel.

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  The 4Runner is the Stallion of SUVs - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By R. E, MASSA - December 7 - 10:00 am

  The 4Runner is have is a 4 cylinder inline 150HP engine. It run well but I wish it would be a V6. Fuel economy is not excellent, not far from what the V6 will do, with a lot less power. Quality wise is superb, It bounces a lot in the city driving, but is very comfortable and smooth in the highway. Its a good deal for the money and extremely reliable.

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  4runner fan - 2000 Toyota 4Runner
  By Greenmile - December 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my 4Runner limited for 2 years and havnt had any issues at all. I have taken it out 4 wheeling many times and I was extremely suprised at how well it handles off road. I also commute to work about 80 miles a day. So if your looking for a SUV that looks nice and drives awesome this is the one. I also have a xterra and the 4 runner blows it off the road.

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  Mileage - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Donahue - December 6 - 8:00 pm

  Well built. My disappointment is with the fuel economy. The range I get has never been more than 380 miles @ an average of 17-18 miles/gl. I actually get higher mileage in town than on the highway. I can sometimes get up to 20 miles/gl in town, but never more than 18 on the highway.

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  Why did I wait so long to come back? - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By RUN1BK46 - December 5 - 9:00 pm

  My first vehicle out of college was toyota, then I somehow went with a Jeep, Durango, Explorer, & Pacifica (dont ask). Finally I wised up and bought my 4runner. WOW- I was really missing it with these other vehicles. Quality of this 4runner is very noticable. The V8 is a must. Not much different on the MPG, and the drop you into the back of your seat thrust is very noticable. This by far one of the most fun vehicles I have driven. It rides very smooth, especially for a truck frame. The nav is easy to use. Love the blue tooth. This is a must be considered vehicle. You will love it

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  Toyota Missed The Mark A Bit - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By gman - December 4 - 4:30 pm

  I had a 07 4R and traded for the 2010 4R. The new one is very nice, but it is so much larger and bulkier than the 07. The interior features are square and give a harsher, hard appearance. The locking gas door is gone. Why?? I had to buy a locking gas cap. It is a fine SUV, but if I knew what I know now, I wouldve kept my 07 4R.

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  No other SUV can beat 4Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Broker - December 3 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd 4Runner and this time, I opted for the top of the line Limited V8. I have now owned this SUV for over six months and it is absolutely a fantastic vehicle in every way, on or off road.I still own a 1998 that just had its first brake change at 133,700 miles, with no other expense except for a water pump last year. Quality and reliability to the max. I intend to keep both trucks for a very long time.

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  4runner - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By rosco sayar - December 3 - 10:00 am

  its agreat feeling getting into that car it rides so smooth i feel like im floating in the air.

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  Its About Time! - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Rich F. - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 4 Jeep Grand Cherokees and One Jeep Cherokee prior to purchasing this Toyota 4Runner over July 4th Weekend. All that I can say is WOW, What a difference. The build quality, ride, comfort, etc... is head and shoulders above the Jeeps. As much as I enjoyed my Jeeps, I got tired of the warped rotors every 12,000-15,000 miles. So far, So Great with the 4Runner. I expect to keep it for at least 100,000 miles, if not more.